ABA Techshow
The Evolution of Technology: Reflections from 40 Years of ABA Techshow
April 5, 2025, 2:15 pm CDT
Fourteen former chairs of ABA Techshow gathered to celebrate the milestone 40th event and share insights on technology evolution. (Illustration by Lee Rawles/Shutterstock)
The ABA Techshow recently celebrated its 40th anniversary in Chicago, drawing on decades of advancements and innovations in law-related technology. A reflective session featured insights from 14 past chairs, who illuminated the shift in technology over the years, as well as enduring principles that remain relevant today.
Nostalgia for Tech’s Past
During the session, former chairs reminisced about tools that were once invaluable in legal practice, such as Blackberry devices, fax machines, AOL CDs, and floppy disks. The evolution of technology has been profound; for instance, early portable document scanners struggled to manage simple tasks that current devices execute with ease.
Anticipating Future Trends
Looking back, some tech foresights have proven accurate. For example, the emergence of artificial intelligence was first discussed during the 2005 Techshow, a prediction that has since become a significant reality in the legal field.
Timeless Security Practices
Despite the rapid evolution of technology, certain best practices remain steadfast. Tom Mighell, Chief Operating Officer at Contoural, Inc., emphasized the importance of password management. “I don’t care what it is you use; you should be using something for security,” he stated. “Hacking is not an ‘if,’ it’s a ‘when.’”
Lessons from Innovation Lapses
Reid Trautz, a senior director at the American Immigration Lawyers Association, pointed out that even successful companies can falter if they fail to innovate. He cited Blackberry as an example of a brand that, despite still outselling Apple in 2011, did not adapt quickly enough to shifting market demands.
Enduring Value of Humor in Technology
Interestingly, Trautz also highlighted the adaptability of specific websites that continue to capture public interest, such as Awkward Family Photos and Kitten Cannon. “All work and no play make Jack a dull boy,” he quipped, reminding attendees that entertainment still holds value in tech innovation.
Former chairs of ABA Techshow gathered to commemorate the milestone 40th event. (Photo by Victor Li/ABA Journal)
Stay updated with the latest insights and developments from the ABA Techshow 2025 here.
