UK legal services exports near £11bn on global demand

London is solidifying its position as a global legal hub, with UK legal services exports nearing £11 billion over the past five years, according to a report by the Law Society of England and Wales. The surge in demand, particularly from the EU and US, highlights the enduring strength of English law in international commerce.

English law is a dominant force in global transactions, underpinning approximately £250 trillion of derivatives, half of international seaborne trade, and about 40% of worldwide business and financial dealings. The Law Society's International Data Insights Report found that exports of legal services rose to almost £11bn in 2025, contributing to a trade surplus of around £9.6bn. The US and the European Union together account for nearly two-thirds of this export revenue.

London's legal prowess is further evidenced by the volume of judgments issued by its courts. The London Commercial Court delivered almost twice as many judgments as its closest competitor, Dubai, and more than twice as many as New York. The caseload of the London Maritime Arbitrators Association also saw a significant increase, growing by 16% in 2025 to its highest level in over a decade. Additionally, the International Chamber of Commerce Court of Arbitration selected English law in 13% of its new cases, outpacing other major jurisdictions.

Mark Evans, president of the Law Society, described the UK's legal services as a "major global success story" and an "export powerhouse" contributing billions to the UK economy and employing over half a million people. However, he cautioned that international leadership is not guaranteed, urging the UK government to continue investing in the legal profession and justice system to counter the rapid investments being made by other jurisdictions in their legal infrastructure.