Ask around the litigation department of any law firm and someone will have a story about a time they had their fingers burnt when seeking, or having obtained, funding. You’ll hear tales of tensions and misunderstandings, which created inefficiency and disillusionment. Ultimately, it may have meant a client’s case never got off the ground. That’s in nobody’s interest.
Having recently moved to a litigation funder after two decades in a private practice firm, I’m starting to appreciate both perspectives. There’s a responsibility on both lawyers and funders to make the process easier and more transparent. Each has an important role to play in facilitating strong legal claims and reaching appropriate outcomes for clients.