The ABA TECHSHOW is the biggest legal industry conference of the year. It brings together thousands of lawyers and technology providers from all over the world. Attendees spend three days learning how legal tech can help them practice more effectively and serve clients with the most advanced standards. 

The annual ABA TECHSHOW  in Chicago offers a great deal of knowledge in a short period of time. With a working game plan, you can make the most of your experience and not waste any of your time. 

Make a Plan

Start with ABA tech show schedule. With 7 – 8 events scheduled for each time slot, you’ll need to choose carefully. Find the schedule that best fits your knowledge-building strategy and bring your comfortable shoes — you’ll want to get to popular events early for a good seat.

In an ideal world, you’d download the ABA TECHSHOW Conference App to select your schedule, set reminders, and connect with other attendees.  (Too bad the App couldn’t make it to the 2020 TECHSHOW; it’s still on the 2019 version.)

Pick from the Knowledge Tracks 

Each track addresses a different area of knowledge: 

• Artificial Intelligence: AI is not the future; it’s now. How will it impact the legal profession in the near future?

• Automation: Harness tech to accomplish all kinds of tasks, and better manage your time. 

• Client Attraction and Experience: Attract new clients with technology that will help you maintain existing relationships so you can build a successful practice backed by a great reputation.

• Litigation: Designed especially for trial lawyers, this knowledge track helps you use technology to enhance your courtroom performance.

• Cybersecurity: Learn to keep confidential client data and proprietary information safe from internal and external threats.

• Core Concepts: Run a digital practice with the knowledge of legal tech fundamentals at your disposal. 

• Next 20: Find out what the future holds with forward-thinking discussions about the coming 20 years in the legal world.

• UnTrack for Doers: Add your voice to the discussion with audience-driven conversations fueled by personal experiences and knowledge.

• Saturday Workshops: Practice your new knowledge with hands-on experience in online tools and social media.

See Keynote Speaker at ABA TECHSHOW 2020

The ABA tech show features outstanding keynote speakers every year. This year’s is Mary O’Carroll, the Director of Legal Operations, Technology, and Strategy for Google. Her session, happening in Grand Ballroom EF, is titled: “What Everyone Needs to Know About the Direction of the Legal Industry.” From the vantage point of the world’s foremost technology company, O’Carroll will discuss the direction of the industry and legal tech operations.

Meet, Greet, and Make an Impression

Networking is incredibly important in the legal field, and the Expo Hall at the ABA tech show is a prime spot to meet movers and shakers. Swap business cards and grab dinner.

To make the most of your social time, indulge in an extra-curricular experience and join your peers for dinner at one of Chicago’s notable restaurants. Choose a restaurant and a host, and sign up for unparalleled access to the people you most want to spend more time with.

The best 6 restaurants near the ABA TECHSHOW:

1. Steak at Prime & Provisions

2. Cafe and bakery Beatrix – River North

3. American food at The Smith

4. Mussels and beer at Fisk & Co.

5. Rooftop dining at Cindy’s

6. Seafood at Luke’s Lobster (Chicago City Hall)

Here are some honorable mentions for Chicago’s best restaurants near the Hyatt Regency venue:

• Italian food at Acanto 

• German at The Berghoff

• New American at The Gage

• Neighborhood noodles at Ramen-San

• New Asian at Sunda  

Get Close to the Tech

When it comes to interacting with vendors, it is important to know what your firm needs. The vendors at the ABA tech show are sales representatives for innovative solutions that can help your firm become more productive and profitable. Figure out your needs and seek vendors best positioned to help you achieve your goals. 

Be Ready for ABA TECHSHOW 2020

The ABA TECHSHOW is an opportunity for you to discover the newest and most useful legal technology while connecting with thought leaders in the tech and legal fields. It’s a perfect opportunity to share your ideas and pain points directly with the people who may have solutions already in the works. 

The knowledge you share with the right connection may impact a whole new generation of digital innovation for your profession. The best tip we can share is: be ready. Know your firm’s tech needs and weak areas, and be prepared to articulate your best ideas. Also: bring breath mints and don’t lose your phone charger.