Burford CEO Chris Bogart Discusses Launch of International Legal Finance Association
The launch of the International Legal Finance Association (ILFA) is a first-of-its-kind event. Burford Capital is the force behind this global organization, fueled by the exciting industry growth that has taken place in recent years. What can we expect from this newly formed entity? Burford Capital details that the mission of the ILFA is twofold. First, it will focus on ensuring that industry concerns are heard by the powers that be. Courts, lawmakers, and clients will all benefit from hearing directly from industry professionals. Next, the ILFA will be an ever-growing resource of information about the industry. This aspect promises to be of particular use for corporate and private clients who may not yet understand the finer points of financing litigation. Some might ask why a global entity is necessary, when Litigation Finance is a robust and growing industry. Advocacy for the industry is of paramount importance, especially as it develops and adapts to changing circumstances. Chris Bogart explains that launching the ILFA is an expected step in the evolution of the industry—one that inches Litigation Finance ever closer to a financial service provider, rather than a niche business. Bogart feels strongly that the launch of the ILFA won’t change views on the industry itself. However, it does seem to predict further growth. Trade associations are common in many fields, and they don’t tend to alter public perception much. But such groups can have an impact by advocating for members—which is the primary focus of the ILFA.