October 7, 2025


Relativity Leverages Legal Tech for Social Justice as Biglaw Retreats

As Relativity prepares for its much-anticipated RelativityFest, dubbed the Coachella for enthusiasts of legal chain-of-custody logs, the company also marks a significant milestone: the fifth anniversary of its Justice for Change initiative. This pioneering program empowers a diverse range of social justice causes, providing non-profits with advanced tools previously accessible only to Fortune 100 corporations. These tools are crucial in battles against wrongful convictions and in advocating for healthcare access for impoverished children.

In an era where corporate justice initiatives often emerge and fade rapidly—especially noticeable following the societal uproar after George Floyd's murder—Relativity stands out by not only maintaining but expanding its commitment. While many law firms have dialed back their pro bono work to avoid political backlash, notably during the Trump administration's scrutiny, Relativity has courageously expanded its Justice for Change initiative across international borders, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the EMEA region.

Since its inception, Justice for Change has supported over 90 organizations, facilitating more than 250 legal matters and processing approximately 16.2 million documents. The initiative's impact is profound, as Barry Scheck from the Innocence Project highlights how Relativity's resources drastically reduce wrongful incarceration times. Moreover, the technology has enabled groups like the Georgia Innocence Project to detect patterns of injustice across thousands of cases, spotlighting systemic biases in certain jurisdictions.

Geron Gadd from the National Health Law Program also praised the initiative, noting how access to Relativity's tools has significantly leveled the playing field for low-income litigants, particularly those with disabilities. These technological advancements have transformed traditional paper-based legal processes, bringing about a digital revolution in non-profit legal practices. This shift not only speeds up case handling but also cuts costs significantly, redirecting funds from storage expenses to direct legal assistance.

Johnathan Hill, Global Program Manager for Social Impact at Relativity, reflects on the past five years with optimism and a clear vision for the future. He emphasizes the necessity for ongoing action and adaptation to overcome the persistent barriers faced by justice-oriented organizations. The successful application of commercial-grade technology in public service underscores Relativity's foundational belief, as CEO Phil Saunders notes, that advanced legal tech should serve the greater good. The tangible outcomes of this philosophy are evident in the numerous exonerations, disability rights cases, and civil rights victories achieved through the program.

Relativity's steadfast dedication to leveraging technology for justice starkly contrasts with the retreat observed in big law firms, positioning the company as a beacon of hope and a leader in social justice innovation.