March 24, 2026

CHICAGO, IL – The American Bar Association’s TECHSHOW 2026 is set to transform the McCormick Convention Center into a hub of legal tech innovation from March 25th through the 28th. As one of the premier events in the legal tech realm, TECHSHOW differentiates itself with a unique blend of camaraderie and forward-thinking dialogue, focusing primarily on small to solo law practices, though its appeal reaches far beyond.
Unlike its cousin, ALM’s Legalweek, TECHSHOW offers a more intimate and less sales-driven environment. The event upholds a "no selling from the podium" rule, ensuring that discussions remain informative and unbiased, with a notable presence of lawyers among its 2,200 attendees and more than 120 exhibitors.
This year, the event proudly hosts two influential keynote speakers. Jordan Furlong will open the discussions, exploring the evolving role of lawyers in a post-AI world, while Nilay Patel will dive into how law firms are adapting to technological advancements, tackling both the practical and ethical implications.
Simultaneously, the venue will buzz with the excitement of the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo, adding a unique flair to the atmosphere. Despite some criticisms of the venue shift from a downtown hotel to McCormick Place last year, the new location offers ample space and proximity to amenities, enhancing the attendee experience.
The conference promises a rich lineup of sessions, including a standout panel featuring past and present ABA Presidents Bill Bay, Michelle Behnke, and Barbara Howard, who will discuss the rule of law and the future legal landscape amidst technological upheaval.
Kicking off with a startup pitch competition moderated by Bob Ambrogi, TECHSHOW will showcase 15 emerging legal tech ventures, allowing attendees to vote for the most promising. This segment has been a springboard for past participants, highlighting the event’s role in shaping the future of legal tech.
The expo will conclude with the traditional '60 in 60' session, where leaders share their top 60 tech tools in a fast-paced, one-hour presentation, always a crowd favorite for its rapid-fire insights.
The exhibition floor itself is anticipated to see record traffic this year, with a significant increase in expo-only sales and the return of popular stress-busting puppies, adding a touch of whimsy to the high-stakes environment.
TECHSHOW remains a cherished gathering within the legal community, offering a warm, inclusive atmosphere where technology and legal practice meet. For those yet to register, it’s not too late to join the family of innovators shaping the intersection of law and technology.
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this pivotal event. Join us at TECHSHOW 2026, where technology meets tradition, and every handshake has the potential to inspire.