Columbia, SC attorney Graham Newman talks about the types of issues that are giving rise to blockchain litigation. He explains that blockchain is a relatively new concept in the legal field, referring to what is known as distributed ledger technology. While the term may sound complex, most people are familiar with its practical application through cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, both of which rely on this technology. Blockchain has been in existence for roughly fifteen years and has grown into a global digital economy valued at approximately $2 trillion—comparable in scale to the economy of South Korea.

Blockchain litigation, particularly involving cryptocurrency, now establishes its own digital economy. Entire businesses operate within this infrastructure, giving rise to ongoing legal disputes. For the most part, the issues that surface in blockchain litigation mirror those encountered in traditional commercial litigation. However, a key distinction lies in the technological expertise required. Understanding blockchain transactions demands specialized knowledge, as lawyers must interpret digital records and demonstrate evidence of wrongdoing or negligence within this unique technological environment.