ABA Journal: Legal Rebels

When Clio announced that it had acquired global legal research platform vLex for $1 billion in June, it was the latest in a series of big moves from the cloud-based practice management software company.

In this engaging discussion, Hilary Bowman, a former health-law practitioner and founder of Quirius, reveals how her innovative generative AI tool enhances attorney-client communication. She shares its capabilities, including real-time insights during meetings, ethical considerations, and privacy measures like zero audio retention. Bowman highlights how Quirius balances efficiency with ethical obligations, improves transcription accuracy, and even assists in legal aid applications. It's a fascinating dive into the future of legal tech and client interactions!

For decades, the Uniform Bar Examination has been old school, with bar candidates using paper-and-pencil exam books. But starting with the first administration of the NextGen UBE next year, the test will be entirely conducted on the examinees’ personal computers. The ABA Journal’s Julianne Hill talks with Kara Smith, the National Conference of Bar Examiners’ chief product officer.

Tom Martin, Founder and CEO of LawDroid, dives into the transformative power of agentic artificial intelligence in the legal field. He discusses how AI can handle tasks like legal research and document creation, but warns of risks needing human oversight. The conversation touches on the evolution of chatbots and the pressing need for thoughtful integration of AI in law practices. Martin envisions a future where collaboration with AI enhances access to legal services while addressing fears of job displacement in an evolving industry.

When Arizona changed its ethics rules in 2020 opening the door for alternative business structures and nonlawyer ownership for law firms, it sent shock waves throughout the legal industry. Nicole Miller, the chief legal officer of LegalZoom, speaks to the ABA Journal's Victor Li about LegalZoom’s experience in Arizona thus far, as well as general issues relating to regulatory reform and alternative business structures.

Ilona Lokvinova, Director of Practice Innovation at Cleary Gottlieb, leads her firm into the AI revolution. She discusses the groundbreaking acquisition of Springbok AI and its role in transforming legal practices. The conversation dives into the integration of generative AI, drawing parallels to electricity's transformative power. Lokvinova highlights the need for strategic implementation and ethical governance in technology adoption. Finally, she addresses how AI might redefine traditional billing models and reshape the careers of future lawyers.

"May you live in interesting times." For immigration lawyers, that old proverb is now a reality. Ever since the start of the second Trump administration, immigration lawyers have been busier than ever, and they have plenty on their plates.

Stephen Embry, Editor-in-chief of Tech Law Crossroads and co-chair of the ABA Tech Show, brings his law practice experience to the discussion. He highlights the significance of the 40th annual show, which promises to be the largest yet at Chicago's McCormick Place. Embry shares insights on the evolution of technology in legal practice and its impact on innovation. He also discusses the diverse range of speakers, the anticipation for record attendance, and the exciting new features, including a themed anniversary party and opportunities for networking.

It’s a well-worn saying that the law always lags behind technology. It makes sense. We all remember the old song about how a bill becomes a law and how long the whole process can take. By the time you get to the verse about a president signing something into law, technology has either evolved into something even more cutting edge or become obsolete—replaced by a newer, shinier toy.

If last year was when generative artificial intelligence went mainstream, could this year be the one when it gets even bigger? Will we see more people, law firms, companies and government agencies adopt, use or integrate it into their day-to-day activities? Will we see more rules and regulations from states or the federal government regarding its use? What about law schools and generative AI? Will we see more start to teach it? And will lawyers finally learn more about what to do, or not to do, when it comes to using it?