A Practical Guide to Quantum Computing and the Law

Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionise various aspects of our work and daily lives by harnessing the power of quantum mechanics to deliver faster results and solve complex problems that classical computers cannot handle. This book is designed to address current and future legal issues to assist lawyers as quantum computing continues to be adopted more widely.

The book serves as a practical guide to help readers navigate the technology and its legal implications. It begins by explaining what quantum computing is and its practical significance, before delving into the legal ramifications of this technology. It covers existing legal frameworks related to the adoption and use of quantum computing in the contexts of national security and sanctions. Furthermore, it explores current and emerging legal issues in areas such as data protection, risks for businesses, and intellectual property. Finally, the authors offer some practical considerations for lawyers involved in litigation concerning quantum computers.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Laura Wright is a barrister at 4 Pump Court. Specialising in technology and IP disputes, Laura is ranked as a “Leading Junior” in Legal 500 in the field of IT and Telecoms. Laura is regularly instructed in a wide range of technology-related disputes involving computer systems, internet services and software across a variety of industry sectors.

Laura’s academic background encompasses both law and technology. In 2022 Laura completed an MSc in Computing Science at Imperial College London.

Laura is a committee member of the Society for Computers and Law Junior Lawyers’ Group. She frequently writes on the topic of technology law, and in recent years co-authored the “AI and Professional Liability” chapter of The Law of Artificial Intelligence (Sweet & Maxwell), as well as the IP section of the AI chapter of the Encyclopaedia of IT Law (Thomson Reuters).

Rebecca Keating is a barrister at 4 Pump Court with a particular focus on technology disputes. She is called to the Bar of England and Wales and the Bar of Ireland.

Rebecca is ranked as a “Rising Star” in Legal 500 in the field of IT and Telecoms and as a “Leading Junior” in Crypto and Blockchain Assets. She has been instructed on a wide range of technology-related disputes from project failures, the use of artificial intelligence, cyber-attacks, cryptoassets to quantum computers.

Rebecca is Co-Chair of the Society for Computers and Law Women in Technology group, an editorial member of the Tech Disputes Network and committee member of TECBAR. She has published several articles on the topic of technology and the law in both national and international publications and is a contributing author to the Law of Artificial Intelligence (Sweet & Maxwell) and the AI chapter for the Encyclopaedia of IT Law (Thomson Reuters).

CONTENTS

Chapter One – Introduction
Chapter Two – What Is Quantum Computing?
Chapter Three – The Practical Significance of Quantum Computers
Chapter Four – National Security and Sanctions
Chapter Five – Security Breaches and Data Protection
Chapter Six – Risks to Commercial Parties and Organisations
Chapter Seven – Quantum Computers and Intellectual Property
Chapter Eight – Litigating Disputes Regarding Quantum Computing
Chapter Nine – Approach in Other Jurisdictions
Future Developments and Conclusion