Now, more than ever, it’s important to understand legal technology, which can make lawyers more efficient, connect them more closely with clients – or eliminate legal jobs. With new technologies introduced every day – not to mention an ethical requirement to understand these technologies – how can lawyers and law students keep up? (See Rule 1.1, Comment 8.)
ABA hosts an annual Techshow in Chicago that provides one of the best opportunities for students to engage with emerging legal technologies hands on. The Techshow runs from March 15 -18 at Hilton Chicago. The conference will feature dozens of one-hour sessions on all kinds of legal technologies – from practical tips for using Microsoft Office, to digital security, to favorite websites and mobile apps.
Students can register to attend all of these sessions for only $100 (a great bargain). This year, for the first time, the ABA Techshow will feature an academic track which will cover issues focusing on law schools and law students.
If you don’t have time to attend all of the sessions, the free vendor showcase is open on Thursday and Friday. You can stop by any time for as long as you like. The vendor showcase is a great way to learn about new legal technologies and services in an exhibit hall featuring more than 100 companies. You can see live demos of legal tech systems and equipment, and pick up free pens and a few other useful gadgets. The Techshow is also a good opportunity to learn more about alternative jobs available in the legal tech sector.
Several of us will attend, and we hope to see you there, too!
