Business /

Digitalisation

Breaking down traditional law firm practice area boundaries

The world is transforming faster than ever before. Across many sectors, traditional business models have either been or are being disrupted by digital innovation, paving the way for new opportunities and changing “the way that things are done.” 

Make an enquiryMeet the teamDigitalisation

  • The Team

    Our lawyers have the expertise and experience to provide you with creative, personalised solutions in a clear and understandable way.

    ArrowMeet the team

  • Our Publications

    Discover a wealth of invaluable guidance in the form of guides and brochures written by our expert lawyers.

    ArrowSee our downloads

  • Our insights

    Discover the latest insights and thought leadership from our team of legal experts.

    ArrowFind out more

About

Lawyers at the cutting edge of digital transformation

Companies and private investors are increasingly seeking to capitalise on digital opportunities. Today, holding cryptocurrencies on a blockchain is becoming as commonplace as having cash in the bank. But digital transformation isn’t just about tech and Web 3.0: there are legal implications to consider. These tend to be multi-faceted, cutting across compliance, data privacy, cyber security, employment, tax, antitrust, estate planning and other legal areas. And the rules can change quickly as the digital landscape evolves.

A team dedicated to everything digital

Integrated and dynamic, our Digital offer is a single team of legal professionals from a wide range of disciplines, all of whom combine in-depth knowledge of traditional areas of law with a comprehensive understanding of digital services, their opportunities and their legal implications. Our expertise spans all of our practice areas including intellectual property, compliance, IT, data privacy, commercial, corporate and employment. Our Digital service is designed to break down traditional law firm practice area boundaries to give you holistic, joined-up legal advice.

Services for private individuals

All of us have at least part of our lives online and in digital assets such as emails, social media profiles, cryptocurrency and online bank accounts, to name just a few. The law recognises that digital assets can be owned. However, there is no consistency between assets and you may find that some of your most valuable assets are mere licences to use a third-party provider’s service. This has significant consequences when attempting to access, manage and transfer digital assets after death.

We represent wealthy individuals who are looking for comprehensive advice regarding their digital assets, investments and reputations, with a particular focus on what will happen to these assets when they die. 

With ever-growing increase of our ‘digital’ footprint, the legal and taxation treatment of digital assets is also becoming increasingly unknown. Collyer Bristow’s Tax and Estate Planning team have long been following this trend and have industry leading expertise. The team can provide estate planning advice for online (banking and trading) accounts, email accounts, online profiles (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram) photos stored in the cloud etc. to ensure smooth transition. Succession and tax planning in regard to financial investments such as Crypto, NFTs. Assisting the emerging wealth client who have made their wealth via an online presence, ensuring appropriate legal structuring (wills/LPAs/Trusts) measures are in place in case of incapacity or death.

Digitalisation work highlights

stock-charts
city london evening
Close up image hand using mobile phone
wine bottles
bitcoin
Padlock on a keyboard
tokyo-streets
inserting coin on the vintage piggy bank
bitcoin
uk-bunting
toy houses
iPhone-app-store
man making an online payment with his credit card

Advising a commodity derivatives platform

We advised a commodity derivatives platform, on the regulatory and commercial aspects of managing its platform. In particular we provided perimeter regulatory guidance as to whether the platform could be undertaking regulated activities in various scenarios, in order to conduct brokerage of potentially exempt products. We also had to consider whether its activities could be interpreted as operating a trading venue.

Advising a crypto currency trading platform

We advised a central Europe-based client building a platform offering access to artificial-intelligence powered crypto currency trading tools, on UK regulation regarding ICOs and token sales.

Advising a financial research provider

We advised a financial research provider on regulatory issues of offering investment research.

Advising a leading FX provider on their terms of business

We updated the terms of business of a leading FX provider to ensure compliance with the latest law and regulation.

Advising a wine platform

We advised a wine platform on their online terms and conditions and related documentation.

Advising on a project to issue music NFTs

We advised Goldreel on their project to issue NFTs representing new music.

Advising on crypto trading terms of business

We advised a brokerage house introducing crypto trading offering to clients.

Advising on sale of translation tech business to Japanese conglomerate

We advised on the sale of GlobaLexicon, a translation technology business to a Japanese conglomerate.

Advising the funding for cross-channel information platform

We advised on the ‘Series A’ funding of a company operating a cross-channel platform for secure authentication and information exchange for the banking, government, healthcare, e-commerce sectors.

ICO for Stablecoin project

We advised a Japanese based client on the legal and regulatory aspects in regards to raising funds via an initial coin offering (ICO) for its Stablecoin project.

Providing commercial advice to a leading start-up bank

We advise a leading start-up online bank on an on-going basis on multiple commercial matters including terms and conditions, services agreements, influencer agreements and others.

Providing ICO corporate and regulatory advice

We advised a leading provider of regulatory services in the crypto space on a range of corporate and regulatory matters, including the regulatory impact of selling initial coin offerings (ICOs) into the UK market, various block trades in crypto currencies, and assorted corporate structure matters, including debt, ICO and equity financing.

Providing regulatory advice to a crypto market maker

We advised a crypto market maker on the regulatory aspects of doing business in the UK.

Providing regulatory advice to a real estate research provider

We advised a leading real estate research provider on a range of regulatory and commercial issues.

Supporting a social network’s acquisition process

We advised Tokenise Stock Exchange on its acquisition by social network, Vero.

Supporting the investment into a leading AML provider

We advised on the investment into a leading AML provider in the crypto space by a venture capital fund.

Spotlight

E-Commerce Agreements

As the opportunities for digital businesses grow, so does the legislation. E-commerce regulations, distance selling regulations, consumer protection from unfair trading, electronic marketing regulations, GDPR and their international equivalents – all these regulations need to be complied with before you can sell online.

We specialise in helping businesses navigate the complex area of e-commerce law, including the additional complexities associated with operating your businesses in foreign countries over the web. Our advice includes:

  • Website and mobile app development agreements
  • Hosting agreements
  • IT services contracts
  • Software licence agreements
  • Terms and conditions of sale to consumers, including cooling-off periods and cancellation
  • Website terms of use
  • Protecting intellectual property on the site (images, content, artwork)
  • Privacy and cookies policies
  • Data processing agreements and agreements governing international transfers of personal data
  • Contracting with overseas customers, clients and suppliers
  • Compliance with industry-specific regulatory requirements, such as secondary ticketing for events
  • Agreements for platforms acting as an online intermediary service
  • Harmonisation between your terms of business and other commercial contracts, such as distribution agreements.

Our commercial solicitors have experience drafting all types of e-commerce agreements, with a thorough understanding of laws relating to online trading. Whatever your commercial objectives, we are confident we have a solution that achieves the dual goals of preserving the customer experience while ensuring your company is well protected from risk.

Spotlight

FinTech

Our practice advises a diverse client base including challenger banks, peer-to-peer e-payment vehicles, Forex companies and those utilising Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies.

We regularly advise companies and projects looking to raise funds via Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and Security Token Offerings (STOs) in regard to UK law and FCA regulation and the contractual relationship between those offering the token and the token holder. We have particular expertise advising on corporate, commercial, data protection, and intellectual property issues and resolving disputes.

We understand that, in this space, simple is better. We keep our approach light touch, focusing only on what needs to be done to secure the best result as quickly as possible, freeing you up to focus on the progression of your business.

Jump to the top of the Digitalisation page

Games

The Games sector is booming and with it, the commercial, regulatory and legal challenges that set this sector apart from other industries in the UK. Those operating in this area need an in-depth understanding of advanced technology, media rights and investment issues as well as advice on more general company and commercial topics. It’s a fast-moving sector, and you need legal advice that can keep pace with the diverse range of issues at play.

Drawn from specialist lawyers across all of our practice areas, our dedicated videogaming team regularly advises clients on the full spectrum of issues that arise for businesses within the industry. Our services include:

  • Protecting your core game assets, content and IP
  • Advising on software development, licensing and distribution
  • Drafting and negotiating a wide variety of commercial agreements and licences
  • Investment into your business or the acquisition of targets
  • Technical and regulatory compliance (including AI development, lootboxes, microtransactions and content compliance)
  • Consumer law compliance, including regulatory considerations in retail
  • Media and broadcasting
  • Advertising regulations and adtech compliance
  • Child welfare, age restrictions and online safety
  • Image rights and reputation management
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data protection
  • Disputes and litigation

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we do business. From chatbots and natural language processing to smart factories and robotics, AI can help businesses automate and optimise processes. But it also presents a wide range of legal challenges and questions, especially in areas of compliance and data privacy. Can works created by AI be protected? How do you handle security, ensuring that an individual’s data-privacy rights are protected? Who is liable for the information generated by AI chatbots? What are the employment consequences if the use of AI results in redundancy, unintentional discrimination or a bias in your hiring practices?

Navigating regulatory compliance, liability risk, privacy, governance and ownership rights calls for a knowledgeable, experienced team. Collaborating with clients across the AI ecosystem—and covering all legal services that touch on AI—we can help you make the most of these game-changing technologies while staying alive to both the commercial issues that surround the use of AI and an ever-increasing array of global regulations.

From the procurement and contracting of AI-enabled services to intellectual property strategies, data management, ethics and cybersecurity, our specialist team has you covered.

Cryptocurrencies

We have a flourishing FinTech practice acting across the breadth of business stages from start-up, through rapid growth and to exit. Working with a wide range of companies, entrepreneurs, investors and venture capitalists, we understand the challenges they face, and offer a uniquely tailored service.

Our practice advises a diverse client base including challenger banks, peer-to-peer e-payment vehicles, Forex companies, high net worth individuals and those utilising Blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies and digital assets.

We regularly advise companies and projects looking to raise funds via Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and Security Token Offerings (STOs) in regards to UK law and FCA regulation and the contractual relationship between those offering the token and the token holder. We have particular expertise advising on corporate, commercial, data protection, intellectual property issues and in resolving disputes around digital assets.

We understand that, in this space, simple is better. We keep our approach light touch, focusing only on what needs to be done to secure the best result as quickly as possible, freeing you up to focus on the progression of your business.

The Metaverse

From gaming to commerce to the workplace, the metaverse is making waves everywhere. We proactively support the next generation of tech-enabled businesses to capitalise fully on the opportunities being presented by the dynamic virtual spaces  enabled while mitigating vulnerabilities and legal risks.

By definition, the metaverse is borderless—a meeting point for multiple technologies, platforms, software, peripherals and interfaces, as well as blockchain for acquiring digital assets like NFTs. This is often at odds with the territorial nature of IP laws. It’s important to work with a legal team that understands the commercial challenges and grey areas when operating in the virtual worlds sector.

Cutting across conventional practice areas, our metaverse team advises on regulation, commercial contracts, funding, cybersecurity, software development, software licensing, intellectual property, privacy and data protection, digital design/ Online Choice Architecture issues, online safety, real estate, taxation and more. Clients trust us to ensure that all elements of their metaverse operations are legally sound to help them take advantage of fast-moving developments in this space.

Digitalisation Publications

Digitalisation insights

View all insights

Back

Need some more information? Make an enquiry below



    Digitalisation key contacts

    Digitalisation

    Digitalisation

    Digitalisation

    Breaking down traditional law firm practice area boundaries

    The world is transforming faster than ever before. Across many sectors, traditional business models have either been or are being disrupted by digital innovation, paving the way for new opportunities and changing “the way that things are done.” 

    • The Team

      Our lawyers have the expertise and experience to provide you with creative, personalised solutions in a clear and understandable way.

      ArrowMeet the team

    • Our Publications

      Discover a wealth of invaluable guidance in the form of guides and brochures written by our expert lawyers.

      ArrowSee our downloads

    • Our insights

      Discover the latest insights and thought leadership from our team of legal experts.

      ArrowFind out more

    Lawyers at the cutting edge of digital transformation

    Companies and private investors are increasingly seeking to capitalise on digital opportunities. Today, holding cryptocurrencies on a blockchain is becoming as commonplace as having cash in the bank. But digital transformation isn’t just about tech and Web 3.0: there are legal implications to consider. These tend to be multi-faceted, cutting across compliance, data privacy, cyber security, employment, tax, antitrust, estate planning and other legal areas. And the rules can change quickly as the digital landscape evolves.

    A team dedicated to everything digital

    Integrated and dynamic, our Digital offer is a single team of legal professionals from a wide range of disciplines, all of whom combine in-depth knowledge of traditional areas of law with a comprehensive understanding of digital services, their opportunities and their legal implications. Our expertise spans all of our practice areas including intellectual property, compliance, IT, data privacy, commercial, corporate and employment. Our Digital service is designed to break down traditional law firm practice area boundaries to give you holistic, joined-up legal advice.

    Services for private individuals

    All of us have at least part of our lives online and in digital assets such as emails, social media profiles, cryptocurrency and online bank accounts, to name just a few. The law recognises that digital assets can be owned. However, there is no consistency between assets and you may find that some of your most valuable assets are mere licences to use a third-party provider’s service. This has significant consequences when attempting to access, manage and transfer digital assets after death.

    We represent wealthy individuals who are looking for comprehensive advice regarding their digital assets, investments and reputations, with a particular focus on what will happen to these assets when they die. 

    With ever-growing increase of our ‘digital’ footprint, the legal and taxation treatment of digital assets is also becoming increasingly unknown. Collyer Bristow’s Tax and Estate Planning team have long been following this trend and have industry leading expertise. The team can provide estate planning advice for online (banking and trading) accounts, email accounts, online profiles (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram) photos stored in the cloud etc. to ensure smooth transition. Succession and tax planning in regard to financial investments such as Crypto, NFTs. Assisting the emerging wealth client who have made their wealth via an online presence, ensuring appropriate legal structuring (wills/LPAs/Trusts) measures are in place in case of incapacity or death.

    Digitalisation work highlights

    stock-charts
    city london evening
    Close up image hand using mobile phone
    wine bottles
    bitcoin
    Padlock on a keyboard
    tokyo-streets
    inserting coin on the vintage piggy bank
    bitcoin
    uk-bunting
    toy houses
    iPhone-app-store
    man making an online payment with his credit card

    Advising a commodity derivatives platform

    We advised a commodity derivatives platform, on the regulatory and commercial aspects of managing its platform. In particular we provided perimeter regulatory guidance as to whether the platform could be undertaking regulated activities in various scenarios, in order to conduct brokerage of potentially exempt products. We also had to consider whether its activities could be interpreted as operating a trading venue.

    Advising a crypto currency trading platform

    We advised a central Europe-based client building a platform offering access to artificial-intelligence powered crypto currency trading tools, on UK regulation regarding ICOs and token sales.

    Advising a financial research provider

    We advised a financial research provider on regulatory issues of offering investment research.

    Advising a leading FX provider on their terms of business

    We updated the terms of business of a leading FX provider to ensure compliance with the latest law and regulation.

    Advising a wine platform

    We advised a wine platform on their online terms and conditions and related documentation.

    Advising on a project to issue music NFTs

    We advised Goldreel on their project to issue NFTs representing new music.

    Advising on crypto trading terms of business

    We advised a brokerage house introducing crypto trading offering to clients.

    Advising on sale of translation tech business to Japanese conglomerate

    We advised on the sale of GlobaLexicon, a translation technology business to a Japanese conglomerate.

    Advising the funding for cross-channel information platform

    We advised on the ‘Series A’ funding of a company operating a cross-channel platform for secure authentication and information exchange for the banking, government, healthcare, e-commerce sectors.

    ICO for Stablecoin project

    We advised a Japanese based client on the legal and regulatory aspects in regards to raising funds via an initial coin offering (ICO) for its Stablecoin project.

    Providing commercial advice to a leading start-up bank

    We advise a leading start-up online bank on an on-going basis on multiple commercial matters including terms and conditions, services agreements, influencer agreements and others.

    Providing ICO corporate and regulatory advice

    We advised a leading provider of regulatory services in the crypto space on a range of corporate and regulatory matters, including the regulatory impact of selling initial coin offerings (ICOs) into the UK market, various block trades in crypto currencies, and assorted corporate structure matters, including debt, ICO and equity financing.

    Providing regulatory advice to a crypto market maker

    We advised a crypto market maker on the regulatory aspects of doing business in the UK.

    Providing regulatory advice to a real estate research provider

    We advised a leading real estate research provider on a range of regulatory and commercial issues.

    Supporting a social network’s acquisition process

    We advised Tokenise Stock Exchange on its acquisition by social network, Vero.

    Supporting the investment into a leading AML provider

    We advised on the investment into a leading AML provider in the crypto space by a venture capital fund.

    SPOTLIGHT

    E-Commerce Agreementsopen

    As the opportunities for digital businesses grow, so does the legislation. E-commerce regulations, distance selling regulations, consumer protection from unfair trading, electronic marketing regulations, GDPR and their international equivalents – all these regulations need to be complied with before you can sell online.

    We specialise in helping businesses navigate the complex area of e-commerce law, including the additional complexities associated with operating your businesses in foreign countries over the web. Our advice includes:

    • Website and mobile app development agreements
    • Hosting agreements
    • IT services contracts
    • Software licence agreements
    • Terms and conditions of sale to consumers, including cooling-off periods and cancellation
    • Website terms of use
    • Protecting intellectual property on the site (images, content, artwork)
    • Privacy and cookies policies
    • Data processing agreements and agreements governing international transfers of personal data
    • Contracting with overseas customers, clients and suppliers
    • Compliance with industry-specific regulatory requirements, such as secondary ticketing for events
    • Agreements for platforms acting as an online intermediary service
    • Harmonisation between your terms of business and other commercial contracts, such as distribution agreements.

    Our commercial solicitors have experience drafting all types of e-commerce agreements, with a thorough understanding of laws relating to online trading. Whatever your commercial objectives, we are confident we have a solution that achieves the dual goals of preserving the customer experience while ensuring your company is well protected from risk.

    FinTechopen

    Our practice advises a diverse client base including challenger banks, peer-to-peer e-payment vehicles, Forex companies and those utilising Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies.

    We regularly advise companies and projects looking to raise funds via Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and Security Token Offerings (STOs) in regard to UK law and FCA regulation and the contractual relationship between those offering the token and the token holder. We have particular expertise advising on corporate, commercial, data protection, and intellectual property issues and resolving disputes.

    We understand that, in this space, simple is better. We keep our approach light touch, focusing only on what needs to be done to secure the best result as quickly as possible, freeing you up to focus on the progression of your business.

    Jump to the top of the Digitalisation page.

    Games

    The Games sector is booming and with it, the commercial, regulatory and legal challenges that set this sector apart from other industries in the UK. Those operating in this area need an in-depth understanding of advanced technology, media rights and investment issues as well as advice on more general company and commercial topics. It’s a fast-moving sector, and you need legal advice that can keep pace with the diverse range of issues at play.

    Drawn from specialist lawyers across all of our practice areas, our dedicated videogaming team regularly advises clients on the full spectrum of issues that arise for businesses within the industry. Our services include:

    • Protecting your core game assets, content and IP
    • Advising on software development, licensing and distribution
    • Drafting and negotiating a wide variety of commercial agreements and licences
    • Investment into your business or the acquisition of targets
    • Technical and regulatory compliance (including AI development, lootboxes, microtransactions and content compliance)
    • Consumer law compliance, including regulatory considerations in retail
    • Media and broadcasting
    • Advertising regulations and adtech compliance
    • Child welfare, age restrictions and online safety
    • Image rights and reputation management
    • Cybersecurity
    • Data protection
    • Disputes and litigation

    Artificial Intelligence

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we do business. From chatbots and natural language processing to smart factories and robotics, AI can help businesses automate and optimise processes. But it also presents a wide range of legal challenges and questions, especially in areas of compliance and data privacy. Can works created by AI be protected? How do you handle security, ensuring that an individual’s data-privacy rights are protected? Who is liable for the information generated by AI chatbots? What are the employment consequences if the use of AI results in redundancy, unintentional discrimination or a bias in your hiring practices?

    Navigating regulatory compliance, liability risk, privacy, governance and ownership rights calls for a knowledgeable, experienced team. Collaborating with clients across the AI ecosystem—and covering all legal services that touch on AI—we can help you make the most of these game-changing technologies while staying alive to both the commercial issues that surround the use of AI and an ever-increasing array of global regulations.

    From the procurement and contracting of AI-enabled services to intellectual property strategies, data management, ethics and cybersecurity, our specialist team has you covered.

    Cryptocurrencies

    We have a flourishing FinTech practice acting across the breadth of business stages from start-up, through rapid growth and to exit. Working with a wide range of companies, entrepreneurs, investors and venture capitalists, we understand the challenges they face, and offer a uniquely tailored service.

    Our practice advises a diverse client base including challenger banks, peer-to-peer e-payment vehicles, Forex companies, high net worth individuals and those utilising Blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies and digital assets.

    We regularly advise companies and projects looking to raise funds via Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and Security Token Offerings (STOs) in regards to UK law and FCA regulation and the contractual relationship between those offering the token and the token holder. We have particular expertise advising on corporate, commercial, data protection, intellectual property issues and in resolving disputes around digital assets.

    We understand that, in this space, simple is better. We keep our approach light touch, focusing only on what needs to be done to secure the best result as quickly as possible, freeing you up to focus on the progression of your business.

    The Metaverse

    From gaming to commerce to the workplace, the metaverse is making waves everywhere. We proactively support the next generation of tech-enabled businesses to capitalise fully on the opportunities being presented by the dynamic virtual spaces  enabled while mitigating vulnerabilities and legal risks.

    By definition, the metaverse is borderless—a meeting point for multiple technologies, platforms, software, peripherals and interfaces, as well as blockchain for acquiring digital assets like NFTs. This is often at odds with the territorial nature of IP laws. It’s important to work with a legal team that understands the commercial challenges and grey areas when operating in the virtual worlds sector.

    Cutting across conventional practice areas, our metaverse team advises on regulation, commercial contracts, funding, cybersecurity, software development, software licensing, intellectual property, privacy and data protection, digital design/ Online Choice Architecture issues, online safety, real estate, taxation and more. Clients trust us to ensure that all elements of their metaverse operations are legally sound to help them take advantage of fast-moving developments in this space.

    Digitalisation insights

    View all insights

    Need some more information? Make an enquiry below.

      Subscribe

      Please add your details and your areas of interest below

      Specialist sectors:

      Legal services:

      Other information:

      Jurisdictions of interest to you (other than UK):



      Message us on WhatsApp (calling not available)

      Please note that Collyer Bristow provides this service during office hours for general information and enquiries only and that no legal or other professional advice will be provided over the WhatsApp platform. Please also note that if you choose to use this platform your personal data is likely to be processed outside the UK and EEA, including in the US. Appropriate legal or other professional opinion should be taken before taking or omitting to take any action in respect of any specific problem. Collyer Bristow LLP accepts no liability for any loss or damage which may arise from reliance on information provided. All information will be deleted immediately upon completion of a conversation.

      I accept Close

      Close
      Scroll up

      Get in touch

      Get in touch using our form below.



        Business Close
        Private Wealth Close
        Hot Topics Close