How Technology is Transforming Legal Practice: Lessons from the 2025 ABA TECHSHOW!

I had a great time at the 2025 aba techshow!

The 2025 ABA TECHSHOW in Chicago was a remarkable convergence of legal and technological minds, showcasing how innovation is reshaping the legal profession. As a speaker this year, I transitioned from being a traditional attendee to actively contributing to the dialogue on how technology can empower lawyers. This experience underscored not only the importance of embracing technology but also the responsibility to use it wisely in legal practice.

Key Takeaways from My Speaking Engagements

I had the privilege of co-presenting three sessions:

1. How to Leverage Video to Build Your Brand, Dominate SEO, and Attract the Best Clients with co-presenter Patrick Wright,

2. Innovations in Client Intake Leveraging Technology for Better Outcomes with co-presenter Patrick Wright, and 

3. The Mobile Lawyer's Guid to Thriving: Practicing Law Anytime, Anywhere (with previous The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Podcast guest Ruby Powers).

These sessions were met with enthusiasm and engagement from attendees, who were eager to learn actionable strategies rather than lofty theories. The feedback I received was overwhelmingly positive, with participants appreciating the practical tools and insights they could immediately apply in their practices.

One of the standout moments for me was witnessing how lawyers are increasingly interested in using technology not just to streamline their work but also to enhance client experiences. For instance, leveraging video for branding and SEO is no longer optional—it’s essential for standing out in a crowded market. Similarly, innovations in client intake processes are helping firms improve efficiency and client satisfaction simultaneously.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Legal Practice

Me and my co-presenters patrick wright & Ruby powers at the aba techshow!

A dominant theme at this year’s TECHSHOW was the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into legal workflows. Generative AI has become a game-changer, offering tools that can draft documents, analyze case law, and even predict litigation outcomes. Vendors on the trade-show floor demonstrated cutting-edge products that integrate AI into everyday legal tasks, while presenters discussed its potential and pitfalls.

However, as exciting as these advancements are, they come with caveats. Generative AI tools can "hallucinate" by fabricating cases or facts, which means lawyers must remain vigilant and review all AI-generated outputs, like any work product, carefully. The key takeaway here is that while AI can enhance efficiency and accuracy, it cannot replace the critical judgment and ethical responsibility of a human lawyer.

Building a Tech-Savvy Legal Community

The thirst for technological knowledge among lawyers inspired me to launch Tech-Savvy Saturdays (TSS)—a free monthly online webinar designed to help legal professionals better understand and utilize technology. Each session features:

• A guest speaker discussing a specific tool or software with a Q&A session.

• An open community triage where attendees can seek help with their tech challenges.

• A roundup of “cool things found” that could benefit lawyers.

TSS aims to bridge the gap between curiosity and competence in legal tech, empowering lawyers to improve their practices while reclaiming time for themselves.

Always Remember to Review Your Work BEFORE You Submit It to Court!

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Always Remember to Review Your Work BEFORE You Submit It to Court! 🚨

Why Responsible Use of Technology Matters

shout out to CLIO and “Ultimate Canine Dog Training” for bringing lovable puppies to the show!!!

While technology offers immense potential, its responsible use is paramount. Lawyers must understand both the capabilities and limitations of the tools they adopt. For example:

• Ethical Considerations: Ensure compliance with professional standards when using AI or other tech tools.

• Data Security: Protect client confidentiality by using secure platforms.

• Continuous Learning: Stay updated on technological advancements to make informed decisions.

This commitment to responsible tech adoption will not only safeguard clients but also enhance the credibility of the legal profession.

While technology, including generative ai, will not replace lawyers, lawyers who don’t use technology in their work will likely be replaced by those who do.

MTC

I hope to see you April 19, 2025, at 12 PM EST for the inaugural TSS! Sign up here to be updated on the conference’s latest news and the free link to the event!

Breaking News: Trump Pauses Tariffs, Exempts China Electronics—Relief for Legal Tech Costs ⚖️💻

President Donald Trump has announced a 90-day suspension of his controversial tariffs and excluded key electronics—including laptops, smartphones, tablets, and phones—from Chinese imports. This decision offers temporary relief to legal professionals who rely on these tools for daily operations. The move directly impacts the concerns raised in my recent editorial, "The Impact of Trump's Tariffs on Legal Technology Costs: A Strategic Assessment," which highlighted the financial strain tariffs were imposing on law firms.

Immediate Implications for Legal Professionals
The exemption of Chinese electronics from tariffs underlines a significant shift in trade policy. Previously, as detailed in The Tech Savvy Lawyer’s editorial analysis, tariffs were driving up costs on essential legal technology by as much as 54% for Chinese-made goods. This temporary pause provides a critical window for law firms to strategize technology investments without facing imminent price hikes.

Legal professionals should seize this opportunity to upgrade aging hardware or stockpile essential devices while prices remain stable. My editorial emphasized the importance of extending the lifecycle of existing technology—a strategy that remains prudent given the uncertainty surrounding future tariff policies.

Strategic Considerations Moving Forward

Tariff Pause = Time to Upgrade?

While this pause offers short-term relief, it is not a permanent solution. Experts have warned that tariffs could return with sector-specific focus, particularly targeting semiconductors and other critical components. Law firms must remain vigilant and adopt a calculated approach to technology procurement. As suggested in the editorial, practices should prioritize critical upgrades while monitoring policy developments closely.

Additionally, firms relying heavily on data-intensive workflows may want to act now to secure high-performance devices before potential cost increases resurface. For those with lighter technology needs, maintaining current equipment through proper upkeep remains a viable strategy.

What’s Next?
Trump’s decision to exempt Chinese electronics aligns with broader concerns about inflationary pressures and global supply chain disruptions. However, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has hinted at possible future tariffs targeting other sectors. Legal professionals should continue following updates from trusted sources like The Tech Savvy Lawyer to stay informed and prepared for any changes that could impact their practice's operational costs.

For more insights into this developing story, revisit the original editorial on The Tech Savvy Lawyer’s blog:"The Impact of Trump's Tariffs on Legal Technology Costs: A Strategic Assessment."

Award-Winning Blogger Michael D.J. Eisenberg to Kick Off Tech-Savvy Saturdays for Lawyers on April 19th, 2025!

📣 Attention Legal Professionals! Join us for the inaugural Tech-Savvy Saturdays on April 19, 2025, at 12 PM EST, featuring your favorite blogger and podcaster Michael D.J. Eisenberg, the award-winning blogger and podcaster behind The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page. This free monthly webinar is tailored for attorneys eager to enhance their practice with technology. Each session includes a guest speaker, a live Q&A, a community tech triage, and a showcase of innovative tools for lawyers.

This month’s topic will be on TextExpander and how creating “snippets” can save you time and money and provide consistency in your legal work!

💻 Whether you're tech-curious or tech-savvy, this series is designed to empower you in your legal work. Please share this exciting announcement with your network! A link to register will be available soon—stay tuned!

Revolutionizing Legal Practice: Insights from SURPRISE APPEARANCE ON “IN THE NEWS” at ABA Tech Show 2025!

Live from the 2025 ABA Tech Show in Chicago, I was able to join previous podcast guests Brett Burney and Jeff Richardson on their show, In The News!

We discussed the transformative role of passion in leveraging Apple products for legal practice, emphasizing how intuitive tools like iPads and iPhones simplify workflows while enhancing trial presentations. We underscore how attorneys can use video content to boost SEO and connect with clients effectively. Our discussion also delves into the future potential of virtual reality in courtroom advocacy, showcasing its ability to immerse jurors and evoke powerful emotions. Finally, we touch on AI integration, reminding attorneys that while AI accelerates efficiency, it remains a tool—not a replacement for human expertise. This engaging session is a must-watch for legal professionals eager to elevate their practice with cutting-edge technology 🖥️⚖️📱.

Enjoy!

SUPER SHOUTOUT! Thank You Libsyn and SHURE for the MV7i!

Hey Everyone!

I LITERALLY FOUND OUT THAT I WON RIGHT AFTER MY GYM WORK OUT SO PLEASE FORGIVE MY APPEARANCE! 😂

Your The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Blogger and Podcaster was the winner of Libsyn’s SHURE MV7i microphone giveaway contest! Libsyn has been my host since I first started podcasting and SHURE’s products have been a game changer to the quality of my show!

I have been podcasting with the MV7 for some time now, but the “i” is an exciting upgrade!

Here is a comparison chart of the discontinued SHURE MV7 and the SHURE MV7i microphones:

Key Differences:

1. Frequency Response: The MV7i has a wider range (20 Hz - 20 kHz) compared to the MV7 (50 Hz - 16 kHz), making it more versatile for capturing low and high frequencies.

2. Connectivity: While both support USB and XLR, the MV7i adds a 1/4" input for instruments or additional microphones.

3. Gain and Phantom Power: The MV7i offers significantly higher gain (+60 dB) and supports phantom power (48V), making it compatible with condenser microphones.

4. DSP Features: The MV7i includes advanced features like Real-Time Denoiser and SmartGate, enhancing audio quality further.

5. Weight: The MV7 weighs 550 grams; the weight of the MV7i is unspecified but likely similar.

THE SHURE MV7i CAN BE A GAME CHANGER FOR ANY LAWYER WANTING TO IMPROVE THEIR PODCASTING OR VIRTUAL MEETING PRESENCE!

The SHURE MV7i is designed for more advanced use cases, such as multi-channel recording and integration with external mics or instruments (in other words, it's easier to add a second mic to your recording session). Although the MV7 remains a simpler, podcast-focused option, it is no longer in production.

Shoutout to both Cori and Brian of the Libsyn gang for their help and for making “SHURE” we connected (to deliver the prize) after the show!

Thank you, Libsyn and SHURE!!!

Have questions about podcasting?  Contact me at MichaelDJ@TheTechSavvyLawyer.Page!

Unlock Legal Tech Mastery: Join the Inaugural Tech-Savvy Saturdays on April 19th! 🚀⚖️

Attention legal professionals!

Mark your calendars for April 19th, 2025, as we launch Tech-Savvy Saturdays, an exciting monthly series designed to empower attorneys with practical technology skills. Each session features expert-led discussions, live Q&A, and a showcase of cutting-edge tools tailored for legal practice. Whether you're just starting your tech journey or looking to refine your skills, this is your opportunity to stay ahead in the ever-evolving legal landscape. 

👉 Sign up now on our landing page to receive updates, guest announcements, and more! Don’t miss this chance to transform your practice. 🌟

Lawyers Can Use YouTube to Enhance SEO and Attract Better Clients 🎥📈

On my way to chicago for the evolutions Podcast Movement conference!

Last week, I attended the "Evolutions Podcast Movement" conference at Chicago's McCormick Place, a leading venue for professional events. While the conference primarily focused on the business side of podcasting, it offered valuable sessions for solo creators and smaller-scale podcasters. I concentrated on strategies to improve my YouTube presence—a platform that is increasingly important for legal professionals looking to grow their practice online.

As discussed during my 2025 ABA TECHSHOW presentation, "How to Leverage Video to Build Your Brand, Dominate SEO, and Attract the Best Clients!" (co-presented with Patrick Wright and held at the same venue right after the Evolutions conference - more on this later!), YouTube is an essential tool for lawyers aiming to boost their search engine optimization (SEO). By creating videos tailored to your ideal clients’ needs, you can significantly improve your website’s organic traffic 🚀. This approach not only enhances visibility but also increases the likelihood of receiving inquiries from potential clients who align with your practice areas.

Improve Your Firm's SEO with YouTube!

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Improve Your Firm's SEO with YouTube! 🎥

I learned more bout improving my SEO through Video and Youtube at evolutions!

For attorneys with limited technical expertise, YouTube offers a straightforward way to build credibility online. You should probably focus on producing educational content that addresses common legal questions or issues your target audience may face. Use platforms like ChatGPT or Perplexity.AI to help optimize video titles, descriptions, and keywords to ensure your content ranks well on Google and YouTube searches 🔍. Embedding these videos on your website can further improve engagement while showcasing your expertise.

Attending “Evolutions Podcast Movement” reinforced to me how video content can be a game-changer for legal professionals seeking better client connections. Whether you're new to technology or moderately skilled, leveraging YouTube effectively can help you stand out in a competitive market 🌟.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions!

MichaelDJ@TheTechSavvyLawyer.Page

MMH: Remember When Floppy Disks Were Floppy? A Legal Tech Throwback That’ll Make You Smile 😊

I’m old enough to remember when floppy disks were really floppy!

In the world of legal tech, we’ve come a long way from floppy disks—those iconic, bendable storage devices that held a whopping 1.44 MB. If you’re old enough to remember their flexibility, you’ll appreciate how far we’ve progressed. Today’s 12-year-olds might think they’re 3D-printed “Save” icons, but for us, they were the cutting edge of data storage.  

For lawyers who’ve navigated the evolution from floppy disks to cloud-based systems, this is a reminder of how adaptable our profession has been. While we embrace modern tools like e-discovery platforms and AI-driven legal research, let’s not forget those humble beginnings when saving a document meant inserting a disk and praying it didn’t corrupt.  

So, as you tackle your Monday workload, take a moment to appreciate the simplicity of “floppy tech” and how it paved the way for the robust legal technology we rely on today.

MTC: The Impact of Trump's Tariffs on Legal Technology Costs: A Strategic Assessment

⚠️💸 how do lawyers plan as Costs for tech equipment will likely raise uner trump’s tariffs!

The expense of technology is often the cost of doing business for most lawyers. Lawyers need to be both prudent and practical with their purchases of the tools we need to do our job - both professionally and efficiently. Legal professionals need to know if we have to be worried about the price of computers going up just we once did when the price of paper and pens increased years ago. But before delving into the details, here's the key takeaway: Trump's global tariffs are driving up costs for essential legal technology, necessitating strategic planning for technology investments and potentially extending the lifecycle of existing equipment until market conditions stabilize.

Understanding the New Tariff Landscape

Trump's sweeping tariff policies have created unprecedented changes in the global electronics market, particularly affecting technology products widely used by legal professionals. These tariffs establish a baseline 10% duty on virtually all imports, with substantially higher rates applied to major technology manufacturing countries. China, which produces most consumer electronics, faces a staggering 54% tariff rate, while Vietnam—where Apple has shifted some production—is subject to a 46% tariff. Designed ostensibly to stimulate domestic manufacturing, these measures are already reshaping global supply chains and cost structures for essential legal technology.

Current Impact on Legal Technology Prices

📡📛 We are undergoing Chaos as lawyers like almost everyone else around the world cannot predict future (tech) spending because of these tariffs!

While immediate price increases may not yet be fully visible due to inventory stockpiling by manufacturers anticipating these tariffs, significant cost implications are imminent for law firms. According to economic analyses, approximately 25% of tariff costs will be passed directly to consumers through higher prices. For electronic devices frequently used in legal practices—laptops, smartphones, tablets, and specialized legal technology—this translates to substantial budget implications. The Consumer Technology Association estimates that laptop prices alone could rise by approximately $357 on average, a considerable expense when multiplied across an entire legal team and still an aggregate impact on solo and small firms when you add up the various tech devices we all use - phone, tablets, laptops, desktops, printers, storage and so on.

Future Projections for Technology Costs

Economic forecasts suggest the tariff situation may intensify rather than resolve in the near term. Supply chain experts from Michigan State University warn that inflationary effects from these tariffs will become increasingly apparent by mid-summer and certainly during back-to-school shopping season. Many economists express concern that these measures could trigger one of the most substantial transformations in global trade in decades, potentially leading to increased prices and heightened inflation. For law practices dependent on current technology, this foretells a challenging procurement environment with progressively escalating costs for essential equipment.

Strategic Technology Investment Recommendations

🧠💰 lawyers Think Smart and plan ahead your tech purchases given the threat of Tariffs!

Law firms must now adopt a more calculated approach to technology purchases and maintenance. For critical operational needs where performance directly impacts client service or security requirements, immediate investment may be prudent before prices increase further. (If your firm does a lot of data crunching or large file manipulation (pdfs, jpegs, inter alia), you may now want to examine if your current tech is fast enough). However, where existing technology remains serviceable, extending equipment lifecycle through proper maintenance represents a viable strategy until market conditions stabilize. (If your firm is mostly on the cloud, consists of using MS Word, Google Docs, or Apple Pages, and some web browsing, your probably don’t need to upgrade soon - unless your system is so old that you can’t keep up-to-date its OS or recent/current versions of the applications you are using - or quite frankly, if its dying). Consider developing a tiered procurement strategy that prioritizes critical versus optional technology upgrades while monitoring price trends and potential policy adjustments.

Final Thoughts

The current tariff landscape presents unique challenges for legal technology purchases that require thoughtful strategy rather than reflexive action. By carefully evaluating genuine technology needs against rising cost pressures, law practices can maintain operational effectiveness while managing budget impacts. This balanced approach recognizes both the necessity of current technology for competitive legal practice and the financial pragmatism required during periods of market volatility.

MTC

🚀 Kicking Off ABA TECHSHOW 2025: Startup Alley, Clio’s CEO, and a Surprise Guest! 🎉

Learn about breakout technology that could change your practice of law!

The much-anticipated ABA TECHSHOW 2025 begins today, April 2, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place in Chicago! This annual event is a cornerstone for legal professionals eager to explore cutting-edge technology shaping the future of law. The highlight of the day? The Startup Alley Pitch Competition, where 15 innovative legal tech startups will battle it out for the top spot. With CLIO’s visionary CEO, Jack Newton, hosting the event and a surprise guest set to take the stage, this promises to be an unforgettable kickoff! 🌟

What to Expect at Startup Alley 2025

The Startup Alley Pitch Competition has become a hallmark of ABA TECHSHOW, now in its ninth year. This year’s lineup features 15 trailblazing startups, each delivering a three-minute pitch to showcase their groundbreaking solutions. Attendees will vote on the most innovative startup, with the winner receiving a coveted marketing and advertising package. 🏆

- When: Tonight at 5:00 PM CDT

- Where: Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, Chicago

- Host: Jack Newton, CEO of Clio

- Special Guest: A surprise industry leader you won’t want to miss! 🤫

Meet the Contestants: Legal Tech Innovators

Here are the 15 finalists competing in Startup Alley, along with a brief description of their offerings:

The ninth annual aba startup alley is today in Chicago!

1. AllRize - A practice management solution leveraging Microsoft Dynamics 365 and AI-powered automation.

2. Belt - Simplifies compliance management for legal teams with an intuitive dashboard.

3. Bot Mediation - An AI-powered mediator platform that makes dispute resolution accessible and efficient.

4. Canotera - Predictive analytics using AI to forecast litigation outcomes with clarity and precision.

5. Case Crafter - A comprehensive platform for trial presentations and case timelines across devices.

6. Claudio by Loom Analytics - Advanced analytics for litigation trends and outcomes using AI-driven insights.

7. Counsel Vaultᵀᴹ - Ensures uninterrupted AI access, even during internet outages, while maintaining full data control.

8. Element Standard - Automates legal research by integrating case law analysis into existing workflows.

9. Lawft - A cloud-based platform offering seamless client intake and case tracking solutions.

10. Legau - Smart drafting software integrated with Microsoft Word and Outlook for seamless document creation.

11. Legion AI Associate - AI-powered tools for drafting discovery and motions tailored to lawyers’ unique styles.

12. Lista.io - Step-by-step workflows for employment-based immigration cases with built-in legal resources.

13. Midpage - A document automation tool designed for law firms to streamline drafting and editing.

14. Moxx - A digital trial notebook for litigators to organize exhibits, collaborate, and strategize effectively.

15. Querious - A client communication hub that centralizes messaging and document sharing securely

Why You Should Attend

On my way to the 2025 aba techshow!

This year’s TECHSHOW is packed with opportunities to learn from industry leaders, network with peers, and discover tools that can revolutionize your practice. Whether you’re exploring AI-powered solutions or looking for ways to streamline client intake, Startup Alley is your gateway to innovation.

And don’t forget—I’ll be co-presenting with Patrick Wright on “How to Leverage Video to Build Your Brand, Dominate SEO, and Attract The Best Clients!” Thursday at 10:30 AM CST and on “Innovations in Client Intake: Leveraging Technology for Better Outcomes!” Friday at 2:45 PM CST.

PS: Remember, if you approach me at the conference, tell me you are with The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Podcast listener, I’ll send you a free The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Mug! (Note: Limit of one mug per person. Prior recipients of the mug, including past guests, are not eligible.)