South Africa sees the return of Global Legal Hackathon

The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HiiL) and global law firm Baker McKenzie announced that Global Legal Hackathon is returning to South Africa this February.

Global Legal Hackathon is an annual event through which lawyers, technologists and civil society come together to develop new solutions in legaltech, which will improve access to justice or the business of law.

Whether it’s blockchain, AI or mobile technologies, on the weekend of 22-24 February thousands of people in more than 45 cities will spend three days developing their sustainable business solution. The best ideas from each city will go forward to an international panel of judges, who will then select participants for the Grand Final in New York.

“To find solutions to global challenges, it is crucial to collaborate, share expertise, learn from others and contribute,” says Darryl Bernstein, partner and head of dispute resolution and TMT at the Johannesburg office of Baker McKenzie, “As a law firm of the future, Baker McKenzie is proud to be involved in this impressive event.”

Here in South Africa, we already have a great track record with the event. Last year’s winning team, Baobab.law, went on to win HiiL’s own Innovating Justice Challenge, and gain acceptance into the international Justice Accelerator programme. It’s a serious project from a serious social entrepreneur which is well on its way to sustainability and growth.

“Locally, we’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of what is possible with legal and justicetech,” says HiiL Southern Africa’s Themba Mahleka, “The potential to streamline our legal processes, reduce costs and broaden access has yet to be realised, and we’re looking for people to come and explore new ideas and untapped opportunities that promote access to justice.”

Participants can arrive with an idea and a ready-made team prepared to prototype your product, or simply come along with an open mind and a willingness to take part.

Global Legal Hackathon Johannesburg will take place from Friday 22 February to Sunday 24 February at Baker McKenzie’s office in Illovo, Johannesburg.

Edited by Daniëlle Kruger
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