PROGRAM

9:00 - 11:45

Module 3: Impact of Technology on the Practice of Law

Practical AI for the Profession: From "How To" to “What's Next”

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the practice of law and the organizations that serve lawyers at a pace that few anticipated. This session offers law association leaders a

practical grounding in what AI is actually doing — and can do — for our members and our own organizations. We will explore real-world applications through "how to" demonstrations and case studies, examining how law associations are deploying AI to enhance staff operations, improve member services, expand access to legal information, and support access to justice initiatives. The session will also address the emerging challenge of AI regulation and what role, if any, law associations should play in shaping the rules that will govern this transformative technology.

Moderator :  Merete Smith, Secretary General at Norwegian Bar Association

Panelists: 

• Robert Spagnoletti, Chief Executive Office at The District of Columbia Bar
• Tim Brown, Executive Director at Law Society of Saskatchewan
• Francis Barragan, President & CEO at CanLII

11:45 - 12:45

Lunch

12:45 - 15:00

Module 4: Supporting Members in the "Business" of Law

Beyond the Bar Card: Helping Lawyers Thrive in a Changing Market

Law practice is a business, and law associations are uniquely positioned to help their members succeed in an increasingly complex and competitive legal marketplace. This session explores how our organizations can provide meaningful, practical support to lawyers navigating challenges that go well beyond legal knowledge, including financial management and technology adoption, client development and marketing, and wellness. We will also examine the evolving landscape of risk, including how to help members manage exposure in an uncertain regulatory environment marked by shifting insurance markets, the rise of non-lawyer ownership models, and third-party investment in law firms. Panelists will share innovative programs and resources their organizations have developed to meet members where they are.

Moderator : Wendy Lee, Secretary General at The Law Society of Hong Kong

Panelists: 

• Dan Mills, D.C. Bar Practice Management Advisory Service (virtual)
• Alison Hook – Hook Tangaza, Founder and Co-Director

15:00 - 15:15 

Refreshment Break

15:15 - 16:15

Module 5: Leading Cultural Change in the Profession

PART 1 - The Culture We Want: Law Associations as Catalysts for Change in the Legal Profession

Law associations have long played a role in setting the standards of the profession — but increasingly, they are being asked to shape its culture as well. This session examines the levers available to bar leaders who seek to drive meaningful cultural change, from influencing legal education and shaping the next generation of lawyers, to championing civility, lawyer wellness, and inclusion in an environment marked by chronic stress, burnout, and societal polarization. We will explore how our organizations can use their collective voice to amplify the experiences of members, convene difficult conversations, and advocate for structural changes in the profession.

Moderator :          Kate Wellington, CEO at Law Society of Western Australia

Panelists :  

• Ian Jeffery, CEO, Law Society of England and Wales
• Luke Rheinberger, Executive Director, Law Society of Tasmania 
• Representative from Canadian Centre for Professional Legal Education

18:30 - 21:30

Group Dinner