New SA legal tech platform launches for SMEs

A new South African-founded legal tech platform, LegitLaw, is an automated technology system that allows users to file their trademark and patent online, draw up a customised partnership and employment agreements, as well as draft day-to-day legal documents like antenuptial contracts and wills.  

LegitLaw, is an automated technology system that allows users to file their trademark and patent online, draw up a customised partnership and employment agreements, as well as draft day-to-day legal documents like antenuptial contracts and wills.  

As a first for South Africa, this innovative legal service provides a range of customised legal services to the South African public. 

Elaine Bergenthuin, co-founder of LegitLaw explains that this is a much-needed service for startups and SMEs in South Africa. 

“The legal process doesn’t have to be intimidating or daunting, it can be as easy as shopping online for a new pair of shoes. We are seeing a need in South Africa for SMEs, startups, and individuals to have access to fast and affordable legal services without having to sign up with a law firm, which involves heaps of paperwork, unpredictable costs, slow turn-around times, and uncertain outcomes.”

LegitLaw

Founded by Cape Town-based attorneys Elaine Bergenthuin and Tamasen Bluett in February 2021, LegitLaw aims to make it easier for locals to access both individual and business legal services through its online shopping platform. 

Created as a one-stop-shop for all user’s legal needs, LegitLaw removes the barriers surrounding the legal process as it simplifies the process with its easy-to-use tech platform. The platform offers an interactive experience for clients from a wide range of industries such as; freelancers, creatives, and more. The service cates clients who often cannot afford costly legal fees. 

“The LegitLaw platform is really easy and quick for anyone in any industry to use. It’s different from the template documents that are already out there in that the first step guides users on deciding exactly what they need and can afford. Most people aren’t really sure of their specific requirements and can spend hours going back and forth with lawyers. After answering a few simple questions, the LegitLaw platform generates a comprehensive tailor-made contract or agreement that is ready for download. The whole process can take only 30 minutes. It’s pretty much based on the KISS principle – keep it simple stupid,” explains Bergenthuin.

Created during the height of the pandemic, the platform offers contactless legal services to individuals and businesses. 

Bergenthuin expresses that the adoption of artificial intelligence and smart contracts is inevitable in the legal industry. 

“The legal industry is traditionally steeped in conventional practice and has tended to lag in technology adoption but is now facing mounting pressure worldwide to embrace disruptive legal tech. People have come to enjoy the speed and convenience of the online shopping environment, so it makes sense to integrate business services into a similar digital space.”

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Featured image: Tingey Injury Law Firm via Unsplash