Landmark research project to map transformation trends in the Welsh legal sector

Collaboration between Legal News Wales and Osprey Approach aims to deliver the most comprehensive research project into legal services in Wales to date

The largest independent network for the Welsh legal sector – Legal News Wales – in partnership with leading independent legal software provider, Osprey Approach, has launched a flagship research project exploring the current state and future direction of the legal sector in Wales.

The study aims to provide the most comprehensive and authoritative insight into the Welsh legal market, capturing the views, challenges, and ambitions of law firms across the country.

The Welsh Legal Sector Transformation Report 2026 will gather input from firms of all sizes and specialisms to build a detailed picture of business performance, workforce trends, technology adoption, and access to legal services. 

A sector-wide initiative driven by industry insight

Developed and led by Legal News Wales and Osprey Approach, the research is designed to extend beyond a traditional survey, creating a benchmark report that reflects the commercial realities of running a legal practice today, the skills that lawyers and firms will need for the future, and advancing technology and AI commitments across the sector.

Emma Waddingham, founder of Legal News Wales and also president of Cardiff & District Law Society, said:

“It’s our mission to use this report to better understand how the ambitions and challenges facing the legal sector in Wales are evolving – particularly in the context of wider social and economic pressures, and potential political change ahead. By doing so, we can help structure meaningful collaboration, signpost relevant support, and shape future events that genuinely empower the sector.

“The legal sector in Wales is highly collaborative, and we hope this independent research contributes to wider conversations around skills, technology, AI, ethics, regulation and market pressures.

“We are grateful to Osprey and all contributors to the survey formation for their time, insight and commitment to strengthening the future of the Welsh legal sector. I urge all firms to share their reflections and ambitions in the short, anonymous survey to build on the collaboration through our forums, events and podcasts.”

The partners involved in the report have sought input from a variety of organisations, including business advisory specialists Menzies LLP, and legal sector regulators.

Building a comprehensive picture of the profession

The research project will explore five core areas:

• Business performance and confidence
• Recruitment, retention, and workforce sustainability
• Technology adoption and AI readiness
• Client behaviour and competitive pressures
• Strategic planning and firm growth

Creating a lasting benchmark for Wales

The findings will be compiled into a flagship report, with the ambition of establishing an annual benchmark for the Welsh legal sector.

The report will provide law firms, policymakers, and legal organisations with actionable insight to inform strategy, support growth, and address key challenges across the profession.

Supporting insight through collaboration

Osprey Approach is supporting the initiative as a technology partner, contributing its experience of working with SME law firms in Wales and its commitment to improving operational efficiency across the legal sector.

Amy Bruce, head of marketing at Osprey Approach, added:

“This research project is driven by a passion to champion Wales more visibly and to ensure the strength, ambition and forward-thinking nature of its legal sector are properly recognised. Osprey Approach sees first-hand the transformation, growth and innovation already underway, and this report will provide an opportunity to capture and share that story.

“In collaboration with Emma and the team at Legal News Wales, the report aims to create a trusted, evidence-led benchmark study that reflects the lived experiences of firms in the sector by exploring how they are evolving, the challenges they face, and the opportunities ahead. It underlines Osprey’s long-term commitment to supporting the profession and working in partnership to drive meaningful, sustainable progress for legal services in Wales.”

Have your say

Law firms operating or serving clients in Wales are invited to take part in the research and contribute their perspective to this landmark study. The anonymous questionnaire takes approximately no more than eight minutes to complete. Firms may take part before the survey closes in the summer. Access the survey here: Welsh Legal Transformation Report 2026 – Fill out the form