Shout Out! How Jeff Richardson Is Shaping the Future of Legal Tech: Vision Pro Insights and ABA TECHSHOW 2025 Reflections 🚀

Jeff, Brett and Michael at 2025 ABA Techshow!

Previous podcast guest Jeff Richardson of the popular blog iPhone JD continues to set the gold standard for lawyers navigating the fast-evolving world of legal technology. His recent contributions—both as a featured guest on the Vision Pros podcast and through his detailed recap of ABA TECHSHOW 2025—offer practical, actionable insights that every attorney should read. In his Vision Pros appearance, Jeff dives into how the Apple Vision Pro isn’t just a futuristic gadget, but a real productivity tool for legal professionals. He highlights how immersive video and spatial computing can transform everything from client presentations to courtroom advocacy, making the case for why lawyers should pay attention to this next wave of tech.

The ABA Techshow is the show to go to keep abreast of the use of technology in the practice of law!

Meanwhile, Jeff’s reflection on ABA TECHSHOW 2025 captures the pulse of the legal tech community. He notes the dominance of AI, the continued importance of mobile tools like the iPhone and iPad, and the growing excitement around VR and AR for law practice. His session on iOS productivity was a masterclass in efficiency, while his Vision Pro workshop (co-led with previous podcast guest Prof. Kenton Brice) showcased how new hardware can empower attorneys to serve clients more effectively. And he was nice enough to mention my appearance on the live broadcast of “In the News” with co-host and previous podcast Brett Burney.

iPhone J.D. is the oldest and largest website for lawyers using iPhones and iPads.

Whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned pro, Jeff’s work demystifies complex topics and makes innovation accessible. If you want to future-proof your practice, don’t miss his articles—they’re essential reading for the modern lawyer. 🌟

Stay tuned as I hope to have Jeff back on both The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Podcast and as a future guest speaker for Tech-Savvy Saturdays! 🤗

MTC: Legal Cybersecurity Crisis - How the CVE System's Defunding Compromises Digital Safety for Law Firms 🚨

In the chaos, Lawyers need to defend client data as CVE shield may be in jeopardy!

CVE Program’s Last-Minute Rescue: What Lawyers Must Learn from the Cybersecurity Near-Crisis 🚨

The legal world narrowly avoided a digital disaster last week week. The Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) program—the backbone of global cybersecurity—came within hours of losing its federal funding, sending shockwaves through the legal and cybersecurity communities. In an eleventh-hour move, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) extended funding for MITRE to continue operating the CVE program, averting a shutdown that could have left law firms and their clients exposed to unprecedented cyber risk. The episode is a wake-up call for every legal professional: Our reliance on a single, government-funded system for vulnerability intelligence is a vulnerability in itself.

The Alarm: How Close We Came to Losing the CVE Program ⚠️

On April 16, 2025, MITRE, the non-profit that manages the CVE database, announced its contract with the Department of Homeland Security would expire at midnight. The news triggered widespread alarm across the cybersecurity sector, as the CVE program is essential for tracking, cataloging, and sharing information about software vulnerabilities. Legal technology vendors, law firm IT teams, and risk managers all depend on CVE data to prioritize security updates and defend against cyber threats.

The potential consequences were immediate and severe. Experts warned that a lapse in CVE services would delay vulnerability disclosures, disrupt incident response, and create a dangerous window for attackers to exploit unpatched systems. Law firms, which handle highly sensitive client information, would have faced heightened risks of data breaches, malpractice claims, and regulatory penalties.

The Save: CISA Steps In—But Only for Now ⏳

CISA’s rescue: Legal cybersecurity lifeline survives—uncertainty remains.

In response to the outcry, CISA executed a last-minute contract extension, ensuring there would be no interruption in CVE services for at least the next 11 months. MITRE confirmed that the funding would keep the program running, and the global cybersecurity community breathed a collective sigh of relief.

Yet, this solution is temporary. The extension lasts less than a year, and the long-term sustainability of the CVE program remains uncertain. The episode has already spurred the formation of a new nonprofit, the CVE Foundation, aimed at ensuring the program’s independence and stability beyond government sponsorship.

Why This Matters for Lawyers and Law Firms ⚖️

The CVE program is more than a technical tool—it is a legal lifeline. The American Bar Association’s Model Rules require lawyers to safeguard client confidentiality, maintain technological competence, and supervise staff and vendors on cybersecurity practices. See MRPC 1.1[8] & 1.6. Without reliable, up-to-date vulnerability intelligence, law firms cannot meet these obligations.

If the CVE program had gone dark, lawyers would have faced:

• Increased risk of data breaches: Without a unified system for tracking vulnerabilities, attackers would have more time and opportunity to exploit unpatched systems, putting client data at risk.

• Malpractice exposure: Failing to implement timely security updates could be seen as a breach of the duty of competence and confidentiality, opening the door to claims of negligence or breach of fiduciary duty.

• Compliance headaches: With regulatory requirements around breach notification and data protection tightening, law firms would struggle to demonstrate they had taken “reasonable efforts” to protect client information.

• Vendor management chaos: Many legal technology providers rely on CVE identifiers to communicate security patches. Without them, law firms would face confusion and delays in applying critical updates.

Lessons Learned: What Lawyers Should Do Next 🛡️

The CVE funding scare revealed that even the most established cybersecurity programs can be vulnerable. For the legal profession, this is a clear signal to take proactive steps:

Lawyers have a duty to protect their clients’ PII from cyberattacks!

• Diversify threat intelligence sources: Don’t rely solely on the CVE program. Lawyers and IT teams should monitor additional resources such as the National Vulnerability Database (NVD), CISA Alerts & Advisories, and vendor-specific feeds.

• Review and update incident response plans: Ensure your breach response protocols account for the possibility of disruptions in vulnerability intelligence. Document your reliance on CVE and alternative sources for compliance purposes.

• Strengthen vendor contracts: Require legal technology providers to maintain robust vulnerability management practices, even if the CVE system is disrupted.

• Stay engaged and advocate: Support efforts to make the CVE program sustainable and independent. The legal community should join calls for diverse funding and governance to avoid future crises.

• Educate staff and clients: Communicate the importance of cybersecurity vigilance and the evolving landscape. Make sure everyone understands their role in protecting client data.

Final Thoughts: A Fragile Peace and a Call for Vigilance 🔍

The CVE program’s last-minute rescue is a relief, but not a resolution. The legal sector must recognize that the stability of our cybersecurity infrastructure is not guaranteed. With only 11 months of assured funding, the risk of another crisis looms. The new CVE Foundation may provide a path forward, but it will require broad support from both public and private sectors.

Lawyers must remain vigilant, proactive, and informed. The next funding scare could come with less warning—and with even higher stakes for client confidentiality, professional responsibility, and the very trust that underpins the legal profession.

MTC

Tech-Savvy Saturday Webinar Link is Here 🎉!

TSS Community Announcement: Saturday, April 19 Webinar Link & Password!

Please note that while the webinar is free to attend, you will need the provided password to join the session. This extra step helps ensure a secure and smooth experience for everyone.

We look forward to seeing you all there and having another engaging and informative session together.

If you have any questions about joining or need assistance, feel free to reach out to MichaelDJ@TheTechSavvyLawyer.Page. Don’t forget to mark your calendars—see you on Saturday!

Please feel free to share!

Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Jf4GpJKaTES011jUtRI6iA

PW: 065746

Time: 12PM EST!

KEEP UP TO DATE ON TECH-SAVVY SATURDAYS UPDATES BY SIGNING UP ON THE FOLLOWING LINK: https://www.thetechsavvylawyer.page/tech-savvy-saturdays

WoW: AI Anthropomorphism - Why Law Firms Must Recognize the Human Illusion in Legal Tech 🤖⚖️

What Is AI Anthropomorphism?

Real wisdom isn’t coded—lawyers still Need to read the dictionary.!

AI anthropomorphism is the tendency to attribute human qualities—like emotions, intentions, or consciousness—to artificial intelligence systems. In law practice, this often means treating chatbots, legal research tools, or document automation platforms as if they “think,” “feel,” or “understand” like a human attorney. This perception is not just a quirk of psychology; it can have real consequences for how law firms use, trust, and market AI-powered legal technology.

Why Does It Matter for Attorneys? 💼

Legal professionals increasingly rely on AI for research, drafting, and client communications. AI chatbots and document generators are now common in law offices. When attorneys or staff assume these tools “understand” legal nuance or can “reason” like a human, they risk overestimating what AI can do. This can lead to errors, ethical missteps, or even malpractice if AI-generated output is not carefully reviewed by a human expert.

How AI Anthropomorphism Shapes Law Firm SEO and Content Strategy 📈

lawyers still Need to read the dictionary.!

AI is revolutionizing how law firms approach digital marketing and SEO. Generative AI can produce content that sounds human, answers client questions, and even tailors responses to user intent. However, search engines like Google still prioritize content that demonstrates real human expertise, authority, and trustworthiness (E-E-A-T). If your firm relies too heavily on AI-generated content—without human review or unique legal insights—it can hurt your work and credibility.

The Risks of Anthropomorphizing AI in Legal Practice ⚠️

• Over Trusting AI Outputs: Treating AI as a “virtual colleague” can cause attorneys to accept its answers without proper scrutiny. AI does not “know” the law; it predicts likely responses based on training data and may fabricate information (“Hallucinate”) or miss key context.

• Ethical & Professional Duty: Lawyers have a duty to supervise technology and ensure its outputs meet professional standards. Assuming AI “gets it right” can result in ethical violations or harm to clients.

• Client Perception: If clients believe your AI tools are as reliable as a seasoned attorney, they may misunderstand the limits of these technologies. Transparency about what AI can and cannot do is crucial for trust.

Best Practices for Law Firms 👩‍⚖️👨‍⚖️

AI is a tool not the answer.

• Human Oversight: Always review AI-generated documents and research. Use AI as a tool, not a replacement for legal judgment.

• Educate Staff and Clients: Make sure everyone understands that AI does not “think” or “feel.” It is a powerful assistant, not a human expert.

• Blend AI Efficiency with Human Expertise: The most effective law firm content combines AI’s ability to process and structure information with the unique insights and experience of attorneys.

• Optimize for E-E-A-T: Google rewards content that demonstrates human expertise and trustworthiness. Use AI to support, not substitute, your firm’s voice and authority.

The Bottom Line

AI anthropomorphism is a natural but risky habit in legal practice. By recognizing AI’s true capabilities and limits, law firms can harness its power while maintaining the high standards clients and regulators expect. The future belongs to firms that blend technological innovation with irreplaceable human judgment and expertise.

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!

🚨

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. 🌟