IMD Corporate is pleased to announce that our team recently participated in the GAR–LCIA Hackathon 2026, an international initiative that brings together arbitration practitioners, technologists, and dispute resolution specialists to develop practical solutions to challenges in international arbitration.
Team and project focus
The IMD Corporate team was led by Aleks Nowicka (Solicitor from our Dispute Resolution team) as team captain, supported by Alicja Bielawska (Solicitor from our Corporate and Commercial team) and Mateusz Sikorski (Paralegal from our Dispute Resolution team). The team submitted its project following an intensive development period focused on identifying opportunities where technology can meaningfully improve efficiency, transparency and decision-making within arbitration proceedings.
IMD Corporate’s approach to innovation
Participation in the hackathon reflects a broader commitment within IMD Solicitors LLP and IMD Corporate to innovation and continuous improvement in legal service delivery. Under the leadership of Managing Partner Marcin Durlak, the firm has consistently supported initiatives that combine legal expertise with technology and process innovation. These initiatives are intended to enhance productivity, collaboration and client outcomes. This approach is reflected in the firm’s engagement with legal technology projects. It is also reflected in its wider operational philosophy. This includes adopting new working models to improve efficiency, teamwork and wellbeing. High-quality legal work remains a priority.
IMD’s culture places strong emphasis on trust, autonomy and shared responsibility across teams. It encourages lawyers and support staff to identify smarter and more efficient ways of working. Technology and innovation are not viewed as ends in themselves. They are viewed as tools that support better collaboration and more effective problem-solving for clients. This is particularly relevant in cross-border and complex matters.
The GAR–LCIA Hackathon format encourages participants to move beyond theoretical discussion. It focuses attention on implementable solutions. These solutions address procedural friction points experienced by arbitration users. For IMD Corporate, participation forms part of an ongoing effort to engage with developments shaping the future of international dispute resolution. This is particularly so at the intersection of law, process design and technology.
Looking ahead for international arbitration
International arbitration continues to evolve in response to increasing procedural complexity and growing expectations around efficiency and transparency. Initiatives such as the GAR–LCIA Hackathon provide an important platform for practitioners. They allow practitioners to test new ideas collaboratively. They also support contribution to the wider conversation on how arbitration can adapt. Its core strengths can be preserved.
We are proud of our team’s contribution and grateful for the opportunity to participate alongside colleagues from across the international arbitration community.
