Allen & Overy to create space in its offices for lawtech start-ups

International firm Allen & Overy is set to house a special office for start-up ‘lawtech’ businesses.

Allen & Overy’s scheme, known as Fuse, is billed as an ‘incubator’ where lawyers, technology professionals and businesses explore new applications for technology to legal, regulatory and commercial issues. As Legal Futures reports, the move is part of a wider strategy of embracing lawtech – the firm has already developed its own examples, such as its online subscription business, aosphere, and a digital derivatives compliance system.

Wim Dejonghe, Allen & Overy’s senior partner, said: “Developments in tech are rapidly transforming our industry and we are determined to play a lead role in harnessing the power of new solutions for the benefit of our clients. Fuse offers us a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with both our clients and some of the brightest minds in the tech sector, particularly those who have synergies with our business. I’m convinced this will not only put us at the forefront of developments in this field but will also be a key differentiator for Allen & Overy in the years to come.”

The scheme is set to start in April.