Lawtech UK has released a feasibility study on the business case for the development of an online platform that could assist smaller businesses in recovering unpaid debts. The platform is envisaged to be a form of alternative dispute resolution which works alongside the court system and encourages the preservation of commercial relationships in disputes.

Technology has long been an integral part of the dispute resolution process in one form or another – from e-disclosure to online filing – but the pandemic has fast-forwarded progress, by both heightening the need for virtual hearings and procedures, which has made remote hearings commonplace, and providing a catalyst for the development of efficient dispute resolution processes which assist businesses damaged by the pandemic. This report is a prime example of the latter and we look forward to seeing how the market and stakeholders respond.

Lizzie Williams is a Senior Associate in the Dispute Resolution Group at Harbottle & Lewis.