Akerman Launched PineWest Data Intelligence Division
The law firm expanded its professional services by launching a new division focused on data management and litigation support.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Professional Services
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Akerman has introduced PineWest Data Intelligence, a new service division designed to offer eDiscovery, information governance, and data privacy consulting. This expansion allows the firm to provide specialized data assistance beyond its traditional litigation practice.
Why it matters
Organizations are struggling to manage rapidly increasing data volumes while navigating complex regulatory requirements that extend beyond standard legal disputes. This new division positions the firm to address these broader data challenges through a combination of technology and legal expertise.
The Alternative Legal Services Provider market is valued at more than $28 billion. The parent firm, Akerman, maintains a staff of 700 lawyers and professionals across its operations.
The players
Akerman
Founded in 1920, this firm is a large professional legal services organization operating in the United States.
Elan Hersh
He serves as the Managing Director of the newly formed PineWest Data Intelligence division.
The details
The new division utilizes AI-enabled review tools and specialized data processing to support clients with transactional data diligence and data subject request fulfillment. PineWest merges the firm's existing eDiscovery capabilities with broader organizational data governance strategies.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: Akerman announced the launch of PineWest Data Intelligence.
Market Landscape
The launch follows the growth trajectory of the $28 billion Alternative Legal Services Provider market, reflecting how traditional firms are increasingly competing for specialized technology and data consulting contracts. This move allows the firm to capture a larger share of the non-litigation corporate services sector.
Corporate clients requiring assistance with complex data privacy or litigation requirements now have access to a broader suite of integrated services from their legal providers. This could streamline project management for organizations managing high volumes of sensitive information.
The takeaway
The creation of PineWest signals a broader industry trend where law firms must integrate advanced AI tools to remain competitive in the data management space. Clients should evaluate whether consolidating their legal and data governance needs under one firm provides improved efficiency for their internal operations.
Further reading
For more information on the current state of the industry, visit the Professional Services section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Globallegalchronicle.
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