College of Law Practice Management Futures Conference 2016

The College of Law Practice Management's Futures Conference 2016 was a pivotal event held on September 15-16, 2016, at the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law. This annual conference convened a diverse group of legal professionals, including partners, technologists, marketers, and managers from law firms of all sizes, as well as bar association leaders, corporate legal operations executives, alternative legal services providers, software creators, law professors, and consultants. The conference's mission was to honor and recognize distinguished law practice management professionals, set standards of achievement for others in the profession, and fund and assist projects that enhance the highest quality of law practice management.

The 2016 conference centered around the theme "What Will Law Look Like in 2026?" Discussions delved into various aspects of the future of legal practice, including entity structure and regulation, client service, technology, careers, and marketing. Notably, a panel featuring Sharon Nelson of Sensei Enterprises, Glenn Rawdon of the Legal Services Corporation, Patrick Tisdale of Dentons, and Michael Mills of Neota Logic addressed the impact of technology on legal work and services. The panelists explored topics such as cybersecurity, the role of technology in closing the access to justice gap, the influence of big data, and the potential for computers to replace certain aspects of legal work.

The conference also served as a platform for the induction of 13 new Fellows into the College of Law Practice Management. These individuals were recognized for their significant contributions to the field of law practice management. The event provided ample networking opportunities, allowing attendees to engage with thought leaders and peers, fostering collaboration and the exchange of innovative ideas.

This conference was particularly beneficial for legal professionals, technologists, and leaders seeking to understand and shape the future of legal services. Attendees gained insights into emerging trends, technological advancements, and strategic approaches to navigating the evolving legal landscape.