LegalTech Festival returns with a splash

Devon & Somerset Law Society (DASLS) has joined Bristol Law Society and Bristol + Bath LegalTech as a promotional partner for the 2025 WE R LegalTech Festival and Conference – the region’s premier event spotlighting innovation and technology in legal practice.

Following the success of its inaugural event last year, the conference will return in 2025 with a bold new theme – AI and the Coming Wave: How lawyers can surf, not sink.

This year’s event will be held at the iconic Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare from 6–9 May, blending serious conversation with seaside atmosphere, including use of the venue’s decks, arcade, dodgems and Jack’s Bar.

For the first time, Devon & Somerset Law Society will play a central role in the event’s promotion and programming, extending reach across the South West’s legal ecosystem.

Tony Steiner, Chief Executive of DASLS, comments, “AI and its impact on legal practice is the topic everyone is talking about, and we’re excited to be taking part in this important event.”

The WE R LegalTech Festival aims to bring London-level content and speakers to the South West, showcasing the region’s growing influence in the legaltech space.

Coralie McKeivor, President of Bristol Law Society, added, “Bringing in Devon & Somerset Law Society opens up new possibilities. It’s a great opportunity for more firms to connect and explore how LegalTech can support the work they do.”

The festival is also supported by Platinum Sponsors Marlin Communications and Quiss Technology, both known for their strong links with the legal sector. 

With over 200 speakers expected, the event will welcome law firm leaders, in-house legal teams, tech founders, academics and legal engineers for an industry deep dive across five themed sessions – including expert panels, workshops and “everything-you-wanted-to-know” Q&As.

Highlights from the day include:

• State of the Nation insights from Innovate UK, Whitecap Consulting, and Professor Sarah Green

• Regional legaltech updates from Clarke Willmott, VWV, Foot Anstey, and Burges Salmon

• Interactive breakout streams for both legal professionals and legaltech innovators

• A closing session on creating human-centred change within law firms

And after, expect “Party on the Pier” to round things off. Expect dodgems, racing simulators, 2p arcade machines, and a fish and chip supper in Captain Jack’s Bar. 

As AI transforms how legal services are delivered, the event will offer practical insight, peer learning, and a platform for future-ready discussion.

For tickets, click here.