I'm reporting from Chicago after a nice weekend at the Macstock conference.  Celebrating its seventh year, Macstock is a fun and informative annual conference and expo that celebrates the Apple ecosystem and brings together enthusiasts, developers, and experts to explore and discuss all things Mac.  Joining computer and technology user groups can provide numerous advantages for lawyers seeking to enhance their understanding and proficiency in the ever-evolving world of legal technology.

I’ve talked about my ventures at the ABA Techshow these past several winters in Chicago.  It’s a great place to see the periphery and more of what can be done with technology for the practice of law.  The Start-Up Pitch Competition is an excellent opportunity to learn about innovation in the legal tech world.  Attendance at the Techshow also allows you to talk to the vendors one-on-one to learn more about their products.  You have the opportunity to hear other attendees ask questions or provide their user experience that you may not have considered yourself. But in order to increase your own personal/professional skills, consider joining a local or online lawyer tech group.

By becoming a member of one (or more of) these groups, lawyers gain access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise shared by fellow legal (and non-legal) professionals with a history of technology use in their day-to-day legal work. Engaging with like-minded individuals allows you to broaden your network, exchange ideas, and collaborate on resolving common challenges related to using technology tools in the legal field. Moreover, user groups often offer valuable opportunities for hands-on training sessions, workshops, and seminars conducted by industry experts. This collective learning experience enables lawyers to stay updated on cutting-edge advancements and leverage technology effectively to streamline their practice while maximizing efficiency and client satisfaction.

In today's digital era, technology has become integral to every industry, including the legal profession. Lawyers must recognize the significance of technological competence to navigate and excel in their trade effectively. Understanding how technology tools can streamline legal processes, enhance research capabilities, and improve client communication is crucial for staying competitive. Technological competence empowers lawyers to manage vast amounts of data efficiently, conduct comprehensive legal research using advanced search tools and databases, and automate repetitive tasks. Falling behind the curve could put you in the crosshairs of your state bar - Rule 1.1[8] requires attorneys to keep a reasonable understanding of the technology we use and how to use it.

By joining computer and technology user groups, lawyers can gain valuable insights into emerging technologies relevant to their practice areas. If you are an Apple/Mac user, check out next year's Macstock (with both virtual and in-person components), the 2024 ABA Techshow, or computer user groups through your state bar association.

Stay tuned, as I may be announcing something exciting for September!

MTC