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Disputes Outlook 2026

Trends, insights and actions for 2026 and beyond

The disputes landscape is changing rapidly. Sweeping regulatory reforms, increased litigation, reputational risks driven by social media, and advances in artificial intelligence are reshaping how businesses manage risk and resolve disputes.

Drawing on expertise across nine specialist areas, our Disputes Outlook 2026 highlights the key trends, risks and practical strategies you need to navigate the year ahead with confidence. ‍

Download our reports to discover what's on the horizon and how to prepare your organisation for the challenges ahead.

Disputes aren't always avoidable, but being prepared can make all the difference. Speak to our cross-disciplinary team to discuss how we can help.

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Commercial disputes

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Competition disputes

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Employment

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Financial services

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Insolvency

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Legal project management

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Pensions disputes

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Property disputes

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Regulatory

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Watch highlights from the report

Partner and Head of Dispute Resolution Chris Owen introduces this year’s Disputes Outlook

Key trends for 2026

AI disruption and opportunity

AI is reshaping the disputes landscape - driving new claims, automating legal processes, and enabling faster enforcement. While AI boosts efficiency, it also brings risks, requiring careful verification of AI-generated content as unrepresented parties use these tools to assist with claim preparation.

Increase in litigation volumes and system strain

Litigation volumes are rising across employment, prompting a shift towards mediation and commercial settlements. The current economic climate is influencing how debtors are pursued and supply chain disputes are increasing due to unclear contract terms, unrealistic KIPs and misaligned expectations.

Regulatory reform and legislative change

A wave of new legislation is reshaping the disputes landscape. Key reforms - including the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act, Renters’ Rights Act, Product Regulation and Metrology Act, and Employment Rights Bill - are all driving significant change.

Reputational risk and public scrutiny

Reputational risk is rising as social media fuels defamation and harassment claims, and greater transparency will increase public access to court documents. ESG factors are under the spotlight particularly for pension scheme governance and investment, while arbitration remains a preferred route for businesses seeking confidentiality and protection from public scrutiny.

Use of technology in disputes management

Technology is transforming disputes management. AI-powered platforms are automating document review, streamlining administrative tasks, and triaging cases by risk. Legal professionals are emerging as workflow architects, shifting focus from manual tasks to more strategic, tech-enabled advisory roles.

Collective action

Group litigation is on the rise, expanding across sectors like consumer and financial services. Claimant firms and funders are looking for regulatory decisions to support collective claims, while evolving legal frameworks and recent setbacks may encourage earlier settlements and shape future approaches.

Disputes outlook 2026

Key themes for the year ahead

We anticipate that sweeping regulatory reforms, increased litigation, and advances in artificial intelligence will bring both challenges and opportunities for businesses across all sectors. In this insight, we explore the key themes we expect to shape the disputes landscape.