UK launches AI Growth Lab to boost legal‑tech innovation

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Ministry of Justice have opened the AI Growth Lab, the UK government's first regulatory sandbox for legal‑service AI. Law firms, conveyancers, law‑tech developers and AI providers can apply to test products in real‑world conditions until 27 September 2026, with the aim of improving efficiency, access to justice and consumer affordability.

Regulators including the Legal Services Board, the Solicitors Regulation Authority, the Council for Licensed Conveyancers and the Information Commissioner’s Office will work with participants to clarify how existing rules on confidentiality, data protection and professional obligations apply. Justice minister Sarah Sackman highlighted the sector’s £40 bn economic contribution, while SRA chief executive Sarah Rapson stressed the importance of responsible innovation and public trust.