Jude Copeland

Mr Copeland has been appointed as chair of the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s cybersecurity, data protection and emerging technologies sub-group and as a member of the Law Society’s lawtech working group.

The sub-group will examine how AI and other technologies are transforming legal practice; promote best practices in cybersecurity across the profession; monitor technological developments and assess their implications for solicitors; and provide strategic recommendations to enhance the profession’s digital resilience.

Mr Copeland, a legal review manager and associate in Cleaver Fulton Rankin’s legal technology group, said: “It is a privilege to lead this important sub-group at a time when the legal sector is undergoing rapid digital transformation.

“Our work will help ensure that solicitors in Northern Ireland are equipped to use AI responsibly and securely, while upholding the highest standards of data protection and professional conduct and delivering exceptional client care and advice.”

Jonathan Forrester, managing director at Cleaver Fulton Rankin, added: “We at Cleaver Fulton Rankin congratulate Jude on this well-deserved appointment and greatly appreciate the lawtech sub-group’s guidance and insights into legal innovation and legal technology.

“We wish Jude every success in his new role.”

Mr Copeland also continues to serve on the Law Society’s future of the profession committee.