Lawrence joins on a year's contract.
Tony told the official website: "He will provide competition for the midfield places in the U21s squad and, like recent signing Kevin Lokko, will be hoping to push into the first team picture sooner rather than later.
The 18-year-old has featured in the U's two U21s league fixtures this season and, after signing forms to leave the Tractor Boys, has now joined Colchester on a one year deal.
Colchester United boss Tony Humes has made his first signing as manager, with Byron Lawrence making the short trip from neighbours Ipswich Town.I think this is f "Byron has shown in his two performances for the U21s that there is a good player there and we're pleased to have him on board."
"We want to generate footballers for the first team via our own academy, but we also have to be aware of other good young players that may be around, especially if we feel that they're of a calibre that will make the first team.
urther evidence of how we're trying to bring exciting young talent into the club.