ABA TECHSHOW 2025: Unlocking the Future of Legal Practice

As technology continues to redefine the legal profession, events like ABA TECHSHOW serve as a beacon for law firms navigating the complexities of innovation. ABA TECHSHOW 2025 (April 2–5, 2025, in Chicago) promises to be no exception, bringing together legal professionals, technologists and thought leaders to explore cutting-edge tools, strategies and practices that are reshaping the industry.

For those unfamiliar, ABA TECHSHOW is more than just a technology conference; it is a unique convergence of education, networking and hands-on learning. It offers attendees a chance to see the latest advancements in legal tech, discover actionable solutions to real-world challenges, and gain insights into trends that are shaping the future of law practice management. Full disclosure, my first TECHSHOW was in 2019, and now I am serving on its board—that is how excited I am about it!

Before the TECHSHOW: Preparation Is Key

Set Clear Goals

Before attending, define what success looks like for you:

• Are you looking for new tech solutions for your firm?
• Are you searching for more ways to be efficient with your existing programs?
• Do you want to network with legal tech entrepreneurs?
• Are you seeking speaking or writing opportunities?
• Do you want to network with other users of your legal tech and build a support network?

Having clear objectives will help you navigate the event effectively and make the most of your time.

Plan Your Schedule

• Review the agenda and select key sessions in advance.
• Identify must-see exhibitors (practice management tools, AI solutions, automation software, etc.).
• Plan networking opportunities (happy hours, speaker meet-ups, informal gatherings), the official and the unofficial.

Connect Before the Event

• Follow speakers, exhibitors, and attendees on LinkedIn, X, Bluesky (hashtags like #ABATECHSHOW help).
• Reach out to key contacts and schedule short meetings.
• Join any event-related online communities.

Prepare Your Elevator Pitch

Honestly everyone is very open and collegial at ABA TECHSHOW but in a brief moment to connect, be prepared to introduce yourself.

• If you’re exploring options, be ready to introduce yourself and explain what you're looking for.
• If you’re promoting a book, podcast, consulting or legal tech product, have a concise message ready.

Bring Business Cards and Update Your Digital Presence

• Have physical or digital business cards or a QR code linking to your LinkedIn or website.
• Ensure your LinkedIn and firm website reflect your latest work.
• Post on LinkedIn that you are going to ABA TECHSHOW to alert others to keep an eye out for you to connect or to schedule a meeting.

During the TECHSHOW: Maximize Engagement

Be Selective with Sessions

• Focus on high-impact sessions relevant to your goals.
• Engage by asking thoughtful questions during Q&As.

Visit the EXPO Hall with a Strategy

• Don’t just browse—ask vendors about real-world applications and pricing.
• Look for tech that solves specific pain points in your firm.
• Get demos and ask for exclusive event discounts.
• Ask lots of questions!
• Have fun and bring some room to take home swag!

Engage on Social Media

• Strike up a conversation: Post insights from key sessions on your social media.
• Tag speakers and exhibitors to foster connections.

Network Intentionally

• Attend networking events, lunches and after-hours meet-ups.
• Listen and ask meaningful questions to build relationships.
• Introduce yourself to speakers (great for potential collaborations).

Take Notes on Actionable Insights

• Keep a running list of key takeaways and tools to explore post-event.

After the TECHSHOW: Follow-Up and Implementation

Organize Your Notes and Contacts

• Categorize contacts: potential collaborations, vendors and thought leaders.
• Send personalized LinkedIn connection requests referencing your conversation.
• If you collected business cards or contacts, follow up via email within a week.

Share Insights with Your Team or Audience

• Write a LinkedIn post or blog recap summarizing major takeaways.
• Host a lunch-and-learn sharing what you discovered at your firm or with other lawyers.

Implement What You Learned

• Test out new legal tech tools—start with free trials.
• Set up meetings with vendors for deeper evaluations.
• Act on workflow improvements based on key insights.

Stay Connected with Your New Network

• Follow up with valuable connections for virtual coffee chats.
• If you met potential speaking or writing collaborators, pitch ideas.
• Keep engaging on social media by sharing tech trends and tagging fellow attendees.

Key Themes of TECHSHOW 2025

TECHSHOW 2025 will highlight groundbreaking advancements in legal technology, focusing on:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. Revolutionizing legal research, contract drafting and client interactions.
• Cloud-based and remote law practice. Reflecting the shift toward hybrid and virtual law firms.
• Cybersecurity and data privacy. Addressing best practices for protecting client information and compliance.
• Access to justice. Showcasing AI-driven platforms making legal services more accessible.
• CRM-driven solutions. Maximizing client management and retention.
• Tech-driven marketing strategies. Showcasing like data-driven marketing and AI-powered engagement.

What Else You Should Know

• Start-Up Pitch Competition. Wednesday night’s event organized by Bob Ambrogi showcases 15 innovative legal start-ups. Come be inspired by legal tech startups and the solutions they are offering.
• Keynote speaker. Thursday morning come learn from the animated science fiction novelist, journalist and technology activist, Cory Doctorow.

Looking Ahead

TECHSHOW is a reminder that the legal profession stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Lawyers must adapt to better serve clients and communities. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just beginning to explore legal technology, TECHSHOW 2025 will provide valuable insights into the future of legal practice.

For those unable to attend, many showcased tools and resources are accessible online. Even implementing incremental changes can have a significant impact on your practice.

TECHSHOW 2025 is more than just a glimpse into the future of legal practice—it is a call to action. By embracing innovation, enhancing efficiency and adapting to industry demands, firms can gain a competitive edge. The legal landscape is evolving, and TECHSHOW 2025 serves as the perfect opportunity to rethink strategies, adopt innovative solutions and position firms for long-term success.

The time to power up your practice is now!