THE LEEDS City Region is well placed to capitalise on innovations in the legal sector.

That is the conclusion of a new report, by Whitecap Consulting, which is based on a six month analysis of the sector in the region.

The project, involving 130 stakeholders, found that the legal sector has changed through innovation and technological adoption over the past five years and will continue to do so over the next five. It also found that the COVID-19 pandemic had quickened the speed of change and that there was potential for stronger links between the area’s legal and technological sectors.

The study identified the combination of the size of the region’s legal sector, its multi-sector digital tech capability, and a large pool of experienced and graduate talent as ‘key factors...representing the foundation of a significant opportunity for the region in terms of legal technology and innovation’.

Managing Director of Whitecap Consulting, Richard Coates, said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to conduct the research and analysis which has informed this report focusing on the role of technology and innovation in the legal sector across the region, which is a well-known hub for regional, national and international legal work.

“Leeds is a collaborative city, and the fact this research has been co-funded by a number of organisations, many of whom compete, is a clear illustration of the collective desire to see the region’s legal sector develop and grow.”

The report was supported and co-funded by a number of organisations including Leeds City Council, Leeds Law Society, University of Law, Harrogate Borough Council, Addleshaw Goddard, Blacks, DAC Beachcroft, Eversheds Sutherland, Pinsent Masons, Reed Smith, Squire Patton Boggs, Shoosmiths, Stewarts, and Walker Morris. Leeds City Council leader Councillor Judith Blake said: “This is a true ‘one-city’ report underlining the importance of collaboration and making the most of all opportunities to connect, support and accelerate relationships between our vibrant sectors.”