🏆 ABA TECHSHOW 2024 Start-Up Alley Pitch Winner and Contestants!

BOB AMBROGI MODERATES THE 2024 START-UP ALLEY PITCH COMPETITION

Congrats to AltFee for Winning 🥇 the ABA TECHSHOW Start-Up Alley Competition. This contest is an annual event where legal tech startups compete for exposure and recognition by showcasing their innovative solutions designed to improve various aspects of the legal industry. The competition kicks off the American Bar Association's TECHSHOW.

Congratulations to Skribe.ai for coming in second 🥈 and Paxton AI for placing third 🥉. Contestants get a special booth on the vendor floor at the ABA TECHSHOW Conference. The winner will get a package of marketing and advertising prizes.

Congrats to the Winner and all the Finalists!

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Congrats to the Winner and all the Finalists! 🏅🏆🏅

The Contestants and Winner are listed alphabetically listed below:

2nd Chair:  2ndChair.ai offers an AI-powered legal assistant designed to support lawyers with case preparation, research, and analysis.

Ai.Law: Ai.Law provides AI-generated litigation documents, from pleadings to discovery.

🥇 AltFee: AltFee revolutionizes law firm pricing by offering a foundation for alternative fee structures.

CONGRATS TO ALTFEE FOR WINNING!

Altumatim: Altumatim is the story-based eDiscovery platform that fully automates document review and finds the most important evidence by learning the story the attorney wants to tell.

Beagle: DiscoverBeagle.com offers an AI-powered tool that simplifies legal research by quickly analyzing and summarizing complex legal documents.

BriefCatch:  BriefCatch is a software tool that offers real-time editing suggestions to improve legal writing, including suggestions for clarity, conciseness, and persuasiveness.

Civille:  Civille provides technology solutions and digital marketing services tailored for law firms to enhance their online presence and client engagement.

Gretchen:  Gretchen securely accesses relevant client documents and drafts instant email responses, seamlessly blending into existing workflows without compromising document security..

CONGRATS TO SKRIBE FOR SECOND PLACEMENT!

Henchman:  Henchman automatically centralizes past clauses and definitions from any legal team’s contract database and delivers them intelligently in lawyers’ familiar Microsoft Word or Outlook environments.

Lexamica:  Lexamica connects law firms for case referrals, optimizing practices and revenue with tracked placements and payments.

LexSelect: LexSelect streamlines trial prep by automating workflows associated with reviewing transcript evidence.

🥉 Paxton AI: Paxton AI develops advanced legal research tools powered by artificial intelligence, providing legal professionals with swift and accurate access to a comprehensive database of laws, regulations, and case law to streamline the legal research and drafting process.

Recital:  RecitalApp.com offers a cloud-based platform designed to simplify and enhance the management of legal negotiation through automation, collaboration, and integrated compliance tools.

CONGRATS TO PAXTON.AI FOR THIRD PLACE!

Resolutn:  Resolutn.com offers conflict resolution services, leveraging technology to streamline and enhance the mediation and arbitration process.

🥈 Skribe.ai: Skribe captures legal testimony with software that dramatically lowers costs by 50% and speeds up the process 10x.

Hello from the ABA TECHSHOW 2024 in Chicago!

I’m all registered for the ABA TECHSHOW 2024!

I’m excited to catch up with friends and colleagues as we learn more about some of the best practices for #ArtificialIntellegence in the practice of law!

Be sure to say “hi” if you see me!

#ABATECHSHOW #LEGALTECHNOLOGY

Reminder to say "Hi" 🙋🏻‍♂️ in Chicago at the ABA TECHSHOW 2024!

I hope to SEE YOU AT THIS WEEK’S ABA TECHSHOW 2024

I hope to see you at the 2024 ABA Techshow in Chicago this week! The sessions will discuss the latest legal technologies transforming the profession. From a Start-Up Pitch Competition to discussions on ethical AI applications in law and more, this event is a must-attend for legal professionals keen on staying ahead. Network, learn, and discover innovations on the vendor floor. Don't miss this opportunity to evolve your practice with cutting-edge tools and insights.

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The printing on each mug may differ based on supplies.

If you see me there, be sure to say "Hi"! 🤗

Remember, the first five people who approach me and tell me that they listen to the The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Podcast get a free The Tech-Savvy Lawyer.Page Coffee Mug! ☕️

(Note - any previous mug recipient (whether as a contestant or guest) is excluded.)

My Two Cents: Initial Impressions: My Hands-On Experience with Apple's Vision Pro!

I decided I had to try on an Apple Vision Pro to see what all the hype was for myself. And I walked away with mixed results.

I had set up an appointment with my local Apple Store (did you know that my "local" Apple Store is at the mall where the first Apple Store opened? It has moved locations within the mall only fairly recently). When I arrived, I was greeted by the friendly staff I always expect from Apple. They directed me to their Vision Pro area.

I was welcomed and first asked if I had an eyeglass prescription. I did, and they needed to check my prescription to determine the ZEISS Optical Inserts I needed. They did this with a machine similar to what you see in your optometrist's office that makes an initial quick diagnosis of my prescription. (Note: It is my understanding that you will need to bring in a recent written prescription from a doctor in order to get your Optical Inserts when you purchase the Vision Pro).

While they were getting the Vision Pro and Optical Inserts, the employees brought me to a table and had me sit down. After a couple of minutes, they brought out the Vision Pro in a Vision Pro box -- this box is similar to any Apple product. (Note that Apple's carrying case costs nearly $200.00!) Opening the box had the same awe you get when unboxing any Apple product for the first time.

The device was securely placed in the box. I was instructed on how to lift the device properly (thumb under the nose with your other hand lifting the back of the Solo Knit Band). It was lighter than I expected (between 21.2–22.9 ounces. Weight varies depending on the Light Seal and head band configuration). This weight does not consider the weight of the Optical Inserts, but they added minimal difference! I can see how over time, where I'd want to wear the Dual Loop Band versus the Solo Knit Band for better support– although both are included.

After being given a tutorial on the buttons, straps, etc., I tried it on. The Vision Pro did not feel heavy or awkward. But I was disappointed that the light seal was not blocking out all of the light – there was a sliver of light under the light seal and my left and right nostrils. I was very surprised to learn that this has been an ongoing problem with these demonstrations. (Although later, I found that it did not interfere with my enjoyment of the Vision Pro. But, I was still initially a little disappointed.) Then the coup de grâce of my wait was over – I turned it on …

I heard a familiar Apple chime as it booted up. The quality of the device's sound was (and will continue to be) truly amazing. I saw the Macintosh icon in black and white. Then, I was introduced to the spatial operating system – it was neat!

To start, we had to personalize the device for me. It was a little awkward at first. No one realized that I could not pinch to manipulate with my thumb and middle finger. You have to use (at least when I visited the store last Monday) your thumb and index finger. Once we got that squared away (and for all of us, i.e., Apple employees and myself, taking the unit on and off, rebooting, inter alia), setting up the device was a breeze.

Once you are set up, you really feel immersed in a 3-D Mac OS reality. The two 4k custom micro‑OLED display systems make you think the program icons were just hanging there. Photos popped in regular, landscape, and even in 3-D (if your camera supports such a feature). Likewise, so did your movies and TV shows! The immersion videos (although limited at this time) truly made you feel, in one simulation, as if you were on the tightrope with the adventurer over the valley! You can also place your OS in various 3-D environments of many beautiful earth-bound environments and even the moon! 🌝 This will indeed have the makings of a fun device as they continue to improve the operating system and device itself...

But notice what I did not discuss. After the end of the presentation, the Apple employees asked me if I was ready to buy. I answered no. I told them (aside from that my wife may kill me for spending $3,500 plus) that the device was lacking work productivity applicability. After the presentation, I had to ask how to use a keyboard with it. They then showed me the virtual keyboard (which I did not grasp while I was there for 20–30 minutes that I had with it). I was advised that the virtual keyboard function was just not quite ready - so it was not part of their clearly structured presentation (my guide was reading from a script on his iPad mini). And they also advised me that I could use a Bluetooth keyboard with programs like Notes (and MS Word?), etc.

According to Mark German of Bloomberg, the Vision Pro may take four versions before it "reaches its ideal form — similar to the progression of the iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch." I think the Apple Vision Pro is and will be a great media consumption device - I can definitely see it as a great utility when I'm flying cramped in coach on my next flight (however, Jeff Richardson over iPhone J.D. reminds us we still need room to operate the device [and some other great tips for air travel with your new Vision Pro) and other scenarios. But just like the iPad was supposed to be the laptop killer (it's not), neither is the Vision Pro.

Maybe one day I'll get one, but not right now. Based on my experience, it seems even Apple needs to get itself up-to-speed on what the Vision Pro can and cannot do. It is rumored that Apple is preparing for a 2.0 update to the Vision Pro's OS, along with updates to other devices. These releases may reveal Apple's plans for integrating the Vision Pro into its other hardware. But right now, if I am going to spend $3,500 plus, I'll be getting a new computer (and right now, my M1 Ultra Studio is working just fine!).

MTC

Episode 82: Revolutionizing Legal Review with Chris Ford, The Journey Behind Legalyzed.ai

Welcome to today's episode, in which we dive into the fascinating realm of AI in the legal world!

My next guest is Chris Ford. Chris is the CEO and Founder of Legalyze.ai. Legalyze.ai is a groundbreaking AI application tailored for legal professionals. Legalyze.ai enables lawyers to seamlessly interact with case data and generate legal documents using AI technology. Before his role at Legalyze.ai, Chris was CEO of CGF Systems, a startup consulting firm. He also holds a B.B.A. in Information Systems from Baylor University, Texas.

Chris and I explore how innovative technologies like Legalyze.ai are revolutionizing how attorneys analyze cases, safeguard client data, and navigate the boundaries of creativity. From preventing hallucinations to ensuring confidentiality, get ready for an insightful discussion on the cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of law.

Join Chris and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

What are the top three things AI can do for attorneys today when analyzing their cases?

What are the top three ways attorneys should expect their AI software to protect their client's PII?

What are the top three ways to prevent hallucinations with their AI?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[01:05] Chri's Current Setup: Monitors, Podcasting Equipment, Laptops, etc.

[08:04] AI's Impact on Case Analysis

[10:41] Leveraging AI in Case Evaluation with Legalyze.ai

[17:27] How Legalyze.ai Protects Law Firms' Confidentiality

[21:31] Protecting Client Data: AI Safeguards for Attorney Confidentiality

[24:29] Preventing Hallucinations: Ensuring AI Reliability in Legal AnalysisTop of Form

Resources:

Connect with Chris:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cgford/

• Website: legalyze.ai/

• Twitter: twitter.com/chrisgford

Hardware mentioned in the conversation:

• Hyperx Quadcast Microphone: hyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-usb-microphone

• Nintendo Switch: nintendo.com/us/switch/

• Spedal Camera: spedal.cc/index.html

Software, Apps, & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

• Adobe Acrobat adobe.com/acrobat.html

• Anthropic: anthropic.com/

• AWS: aws.amazon.com/

• Google Cloud: cloud.google.com/

• Legalyze.ai: legalyze.ai/

• LexisNexis: lexisnexis.com/en-us/gateway.page

• Llama: llama.meta.com/

• Menuwhere:manytricks.com/menuwhere/

• Microsoft Presidio: microsoft.github.io/presidio/

• OpenAI: openai.com/

• Thomson Reuters: thomsonreuters.com

My Two Cents: The First Apple Macintosh Computer Turns 40! 🥳 A Reminder For Lawyers On The Technological Shift In Legal Practice.

The first mac was release on Jan 24, 1984.

The introduction of the Macintosh computer in 1984 marked a significant turning point in the legal profession, revolutionizing how lawyers practiced law. As we commemorate 40 years since its inception, lawyers should reflect on how this technological shift transformed their work and understand its lasting impact on legal practice.

Before the advent of personal computers, legal professionals primarily relied on typewriters, handwritten documents, and physical libraries for research. This laborious process often consumed significant time and resources. However, with the introduction of Macintosh and its Graphical User Interface (GUI), lawyers were empowered with tools that, over time, would streamline their workflow and enhance efficiency. The GUI provided lawyers with a user-friendly experience through icons, windows, and menus instead of complex command lines.

today’s lawyers have much to celebrate today given apple’s gui Operating system!

I am sure there are some early Windows users screaming that "everyone" was using Windows well before Macintosh computers. And they are half right. No one could have been using Windows OS before Mac OS because Mac OS came out nearly two years before Microsoft's GUI-based Windows. So, Mac wins, right? Kind of.

Although Mac's GUI was released before Windows OS, Windows was more widely used than Macs. The public's perception was that Macs were geared toward a more creative audience. In contrast, Windows computers were geared toward those in the business world, especially since Windows machines were networked before Macs were. Plus, Mac's first GUI word processing program, MacWrite, had some serious limitations when first introduced.

The first Mac cost about $2,495 ($7,500 in today's dollars) - the first Mac had a built-in screen and mouse and 128kb of memory - think about it, 1,000,000 kb equals 1 GB!

So, let's be clear: the initial release of the Macintosh Computer was not the immediate answer for how lawyers work today. Instead, its GUI-based operating system initiated the journey toward modern computing, incorporating word processing, file and case management, and web-based research. This evolution continues to shape lawyers' digital landscape today.

Happy Birthday, Macintosh!

BREAKING NEWS! Protecting Your Law Practice: FBI Chief Cautions Congress Against Impending Chinese Cyberattacks.

FBI Director Christopher Wray TESTIFYING before the House China Committee.

On January 31, 2024, FBI Director Christopher Wray testified before the House China Committee. He warned about an ongoing Chinese hacking threat against the United States' crucial infrastructure, including water treatment, energy, transportation, and communications. In an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, the legal profession has become a prime target for malicious actors seeking to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. Lawyers should take note as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been sounding the alarm on the growing concern of Chinese cyberattacks specifically targeting law firms.

The motives behind these cyberattacks are multi-fold. China's government-backed hackers often seek strategic advantages by acquiring insights into pending litigation or business deals involving American companies. By gaining access to confidential attorney-client communications or negotiating strategies, they can undermine negotiations or influence outcomes in favor of Chinese entities. Furthermore, the stolen intellectual property can be leveraged by Chinese corporations to be used as a blueprint for developing competitive products without incurring research and development costs. This unfair advantage undermines American businesses' ability to compete fairly in global markets and jeopardizes industries vital for national economic growth.

You might believe that your firm is safe from hacking by foreign governments because of its size or the specific legal field you specialize in. However, if any of your clients are targets of interest to hackers, your firm's data could also be at risk.

In order to safeguard your practice and client data, it is essential to adhere to key recommendations provided by the FBI:

Government sponsored cyber attacks can target even the smallest law firm!

• Enhance Cybersecurity Infrastructure: Strengthening your practice's cybersecurity infrastructure should be a top priority. Implement multi-factor authentication for all devices and systems accessing sensitive information. Regularly update software programs, operating systems, and antivirus solutions to ensure they are equipped with the latest security patches. Additionally, consider employing a robust firewall and intrusion detection system to monitor network traffic and identify potential threats.

• Conduct Regular Security Assessments: Perform periodic security assessments of your practice's IT infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities or weaknesses that could be exploited by cybercriminals. Engage reputable cybersecurity firms or consultants who specialize in conducting comprehensive assessments of networks, applications, and databases. These assessments will help you identify potential entry points for hackers and develop strategies to mitigate risks effectively.

• Invest in Employee Training: The human element remains one of the weakest links in any organization's cybersecurity defense system. Train your staff on best practices for identifying phishing attempts, recognizing suspicious emails or attachments, using strong passwords, and practicing safe browsing habits online. By raising awareness among employees about potential cyber threats and providing them with the necessary knowledge to respond appropriately, you can significantly reduce the risk of successful attacks.

EMployee training can be one of your first lines of defense against cyber attacks!

• Implement Data Encryption Measures: Encrypting sensitive data is an effective way to protect it from unauthorized access during transmission or storage. Utilize encryption tools across all communication channels within your practice – including email correspondence – as well as when storing files on local or cloud-based servers. Encryption ensures that even if cybercriminals gain access to your data, it remains unreadable and unusable to them.

• Regularly Back Up Data: Implement a robust data backup strategy to ensure you can recover critical information in the event of a cyberattack or system failure. Regularly back up all client files, case documents, and other important data to an off-site location or cloud-based service. Test the restoration process periodically to verify the integrity of your backups and guarantee their availability when needed.

• Establish an Incident Response Plan: Prepare for potential cyber incidents by developing a comprehensive incident response plan. This plan should outline the steps your practice will take in the event of a breach, including who should be notified, which authorities should be contacted, and how affected clients should be informed. By having a well-defined response plan in place, you can minimize damage and ensure timely action during high-stress situations.

The warning issued by FBI Director Christopher Wray underscores the urgency for legal practitioners to fortify their practices against these malicious actors. By prioritizing cybersecurity measures, fostering a culture of awareness, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies like the FBI, lawyers can better protect themselves and their client's interests and uphold the integrity of the legal profession in an increasingly digital world.

My Two Cents: Harnessing The Power Of Podcasting: How Lawyers Can Benefit From A Podcasting Marketing Strategy - Why I went to Podfest 2024!

My third attendnace at Podfest coincide’s with it's 10th Anniversary!

In today's digital age, where attention spans are shorter than ever, finding innovative ways to engage with potential clients is crucial for lawyers and legal professionals. One such method that has gained significant traction in recent years is podcasting. By leveraging the power of podcasting, legal professionals can effectively reach their target audience, establish themselves as thought leaders in their respective fields, and ultimately grow their client base.

Podcasting offers a unique opportunity for lawyers to connect with their audience on a more personal level. Unlike written content or video, podcasts allow listeners to tune in while multitasking or during their commute. This convenience factor makes it easier for lawyers to capture the attention of busy professionals who may not have the time or patience to read lengthy articles or watch videos.

Furthermore, podcasts provide an avenue for lawyers to showcase their expertise and knowledge in a conversational manner. By hosting a podcast or appearing as a guest on relevant legal podcasts, attorneys can discuss current legal issues, share insights into complex cases, and offer practical advice to listeners. This not only helps lawyers build credibility but also establishes them as trusted authorities in their areas of specialization.

By consistently producing high-quality podcast content related to their practice areas, lawyers can attract a dedicated audience of potential clients who are genuinely interested in what they have to say. These listeners may be seeking specific legal services or simply looking for informative content related to the law. In either case, by providing valuable insights through podcast episodes, attorneys can position themselves as go-to resources within their niche.  (Lawyers can also host and appear on podcasts for topics outside their practice area; sometimes being an authority in another area translates to the listener that you may be an authority in the area of law your practice.)

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Dr. Drew Headlines!

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Selfie w Dr. Drew!

Additionally, podcasting offers an opportunity for lawyers to network and collaborate with other industry professionals. Attending events like Podfest 2024 allows legal professionals not only to gain insights from experienced podcasters and producers (e.g., finding the right hardware, learning how to use podcasting software, how to offload some or all of the production, how to repurpose your podcast in other social medial platforms, using LinkedIn to promote your podcast and your brand ... ) but also connect with influential individuals within the industry who may become valuable referral sources or even potential clients themselves - I ended up giving out my work business card so often that I ran out of card!

Another significant advantage of podcasting is its ability to enhance search engine optimization (SEO) efforts. Podcast episodes can be transcribed and turned into written content, which can then be published alongside the audio file on a website or blog. This multimedia approach not only caters to different types of audience preferences but also improves the discoverability of the podcast through search engines and improves your own SEO.

By incorporating relevant keywords into podcast titles, descriptions, and transcripts, lawyers can increase their online visibility and attract organic traffic to their websites.

Group photo from Podfest 2024 VIP Business Podcaster Mastermind Session
Thank you @Joe Fier for a great Roundtable!!!

Harnessing the power of podcasting can be a game-changer for lawyers and legal professionals looking to expand their reach and build a strong online presence. By engaging with potential clients in a personal and informative manner, attorneys can establish themselves as trusted authorities within their fields while attracting a dedicated audience that may ultimately convert into valuable clients. With its unique ability to reach busy professionals on-the-go and enhance SEO efforts, podcasting is an effective marketing strategy that should not be overlooked by legal professionals seeking growth in today's digital landscape.

I hope to see you at the next Podfest or maybe at the 2024 Podcast Movement held in DC this August 2024!

MTC!!!

Monday Morning Humor: Was Lawyer's Life Simpler w Landlines? 🙃

Remember when phones were leashed to walls, like this museum relic? Ah, the simpler times! No notifications, just the thrilling gamble of who's on the other end. Life was easier, or maybe we were just less available. Either way, this rotary phone's silence is almost poetic, isn't it? 🤪

Episode 81: Navigating The Future of Legal Tech with Filevine's Emily Lippincott

Today's guest, Emily Lippincott, is a Legal Futurist at Filevine, a premier legal work platform serving law firms and businesses throughout the United States and Canada. With over 16 years of legal experience in Silicon Valley, encompassing roles in in-house and law firm settings, Emily brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Moreover, her background includes counseling corporate clients through various stages, from inception to public offering or acquisition.

Throughout the conversation, Emily illuminates for lawyers pathways to efficiency, accessibility, and excellence. Join us as she navigates the intricate web of tomorrow's legal tech landscape, shaping the future of the practice of law with insight and expertise. Let's unlock the secrets to efficiency, innovation, and success in the digital age!

Join Emily and me as we discuss the following three questions and more!

What are the top three factors a lawyer should consider when vetting new hardware for their practice so that they are not only cutting edge but future-proof?

What are the top three things lawyers are still getting wrong with their hardware and software technology in their law practice?

What are the top three ways lawyers can use AI in their practice?

In our conversation, we cover the following:

[01:07] Emily's Tech Setup

[06:25] Essential Considerations for Lawyers Embracing Innovation

[14:20] Common Pitfalls and Potential Solutions

[27:43] Maximizing AI in Legal Practice: Three Key Applications

Resources:

Connect with Emily:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emilylippincott/

Hardware mentioned in the conversation:

1. Audio-Technica AT2020PK Microphone: audio-technica.com/en-us/at2020pk

2. Dell Curved Monitor: dell.com/en-us/lp/curved-monitors

3. Logitech Litra Glow: logitech.com/en-us/products/lighting/litra-glow

4. Logitech Stream Cam: logitech.com/en-us/products/webcams/streamcam

5. Macbook Pro with M1 Chip: support.apple.com/en-us

6. Rubber Tips for Apple Pencil: apple.com/shop/product

7. Scarlett Solo: us.focusrite.com/products/scarlett-solo

Software, Apps, & Cloud Services mentioned in the conversation:

1. 1Password For Chrome Extension: 1password.com/resources/guides/1password-for-google-chrome/

2. 1Password: 1password.com/ 

3. Apple Pages: apple.com/pages/

4. Backblaze: backblaze.com/

5. Camelcamelcamel: camelcamelcamel.com/

6. Capital One app: capitalone.com

7. Filevine Immigration AI: filevine.com/platform/immigrationai/

8. Filevine: filevine.com/

9. GoodNotes goodnotes.com/

10. Google One: one.google.com/overview/

11. Mac Updater: corecode.io/macupdater/

12. MacOS Sonoma: apple.com/macos/sonoma/

13. Microsoft Outlook plugin: support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/use-add-ins-in-outlook

14. WordPerfect: wordperfect.com/en/

15. Zscaler: help.zscaler.com/