Valla Raises $2.7M to Empower Workers with Accessible Legal Support
Valla, a legal tech startup, has secured $2.7 million in seed funding to make legal recourse more accessible for employees. Frustrated by the complexity and cost of traditional legal processes, founder Danae Shell launched Valla in 2022 to simplify employment law issues for workers.
Since its launch, Valla reports that over 12,000 workers have successfully filed complaints and negotiated settlements with their employers. The platform empowers users to gather evidence, generate legal documents, and access expert coaching throughout their case.
If we can build tools that let someone file their tax return from their mobile phone, surely we can build something that can help them manage their own legal issue.
Valla's platform streamlines each stage of the legal process. Users can track ongoing workplace issues, draft tribunal claims, and purchase coaching packages to prepare for hearings.
AI-Powered Legal Assistance
Leveraging the power of AI, Valla acts as a virtual legal secretary. The platform's generative AI engine briefs coaches, takes notes during calls, manages administrative tasks, and provides reminders as the case progresses.
This innovative approach attracted investors, with Ada Ventures leading the seed round. Active Partners, Portfolio Ventures, Techstart, and Resolution Foundation also participated.
Shell attributes Valla's early traction and the integration of generative AI in early 2023 as key factors in securing the funding.
Expansion Plans
Valla plans to use the new funding to expand its marketing efforts, build partnerships with worker unions and insurers, and further develop its AI capabilities. Beyond employment law, the company aims to expand into small claims and tenancy disputes.
Future plans include expanding into new geographic markets, including the U.S. and Europe.
