Innovative twist to traditional lawyering

Dominic Rebelo, Partner at ALN Kenya and in charge of innovation, explains what sets AK-ADD apart: "The AK-ADD platform is an industry first: it is the only platform available that allows all parties in a due diligence matter to collaborate in real time." The platform, developed entirely in-house, streamlines communication by centralising data and eliminating the need for emails, phone calls, and meetings.

Nahabi Wandera, Innovation Technologist at ALN Kenya emphasised the importance of technology in the legal industry, noting that it enhances traditional lawyering methods by improving efficiency in areas such as knowledge management units, new hire onboarding, and cross-border team collaboration.

Rebelo agrees that the core of legal advice remains personal interactions between lawyers and clients, but says technology will play a crucial role by "eliminating delays and improving the quality and speed”. He adds that technology is central to ALN Kenya’s strategy of providing the best legal services on the continent, and envisions it permeating almost every aspect of their practice.

To stay current with legal technology trends and developments, ALN Kenya holds weekly innovation roundtables and presentations involving the entire firm and key players in both legal and technological spaces. They also actively participate in innovation conferences and webinars, ensuring that the firm is always at the forefront of the industry.

Winning the Best Use of Technology award validated the firm’s efforts, said Rebelo. “Our clients know that we are a firm that is willing to chart new paths and work on the very edge of what is possible, all in our efforts to provide the best and most timely legal solutions.” He added that innovation is "culturally embedded within A&K" and that the firm will "continually strive to develop solutions that make us more efficient and provide our clients with greater value."

The award underscores ALN Kenya’s dedication to integrating technology into the legal practice, setting a precedent for innovation in the African legal sector. As firms across the continent consider applying for this year's African Legal Awards, ALN Kenya’s success story serves as a powerful motivator to embrace the transformative potential of technology.

Deadline for submissions for the 2023 African Legal Awards is 5 May 2023, with the winners being announced at the awards ceremony on 1 September 2023 in Johannesburg. Click here to apply.

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