Why is an Education in Legal and Justice Tech so Important?

Technology is no longer a luxury; it has become a necessity. The fact remains just as true within the legal industry. No longer is the practice of law synonymous with endless hours spent over enormous piles of paper. The domain of law has now moved beyond the physical constraints of the desk and can now, just as easily, be practiced on your laptop, tablet or smartphones. Which is why it is necessary for law students, the future lawyers, judges and prosecutors of this world, to understand the power they literally hold in their hands; and adequately, be aware of the scope, potential and consequences of legal and justice technology.

As the world continues to move to the online realm, one of the first hurdles the coming generation of law graduates will have to cross will be that of the evolving job market. Just over a year ago, concepts like ‘remote lawyering’ and ‘virtual courtrooms’ seemed revolutionary, at least within the Indian Legal fraternity. But COVID-19 and the resulting restrictions have somewhat forcibly thrust us onto new and innovative solutions. Such is the nature of the practice of law now – evolving with the needs and requirements of the time.

Now that the gates have been opened, professionals across the field have been exposed to the ease, convenience, accuracy and security of the many digital solutions available right now; and it is safe to say that there is no going back. It has been proven time and again that technological solutions have been crucial in tackling complex legal problems. From Online Dispute Resolution and advanced Case and Contract Management Systems to efficient online storage and security features and not to mention, the no longer theoretical applications of Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence – technology has, quite efficiently, carved out the future of law. So there is no doubt that future law graduates will be expected to be Legal and Justice Tech ready.

But the solution is still not perfect. The ever-expanding and ever-evolving nature of technology is constantly throwing up newer challenges and more complex rhetoric. Which is why, we need knowledgeable, skilled, unbiased individuals to weigh in technology’s benefits and consequences and develop solutions that serve the greater good. And who fits the role better than those who know the law backwards and are just as adept with technology – i.e. legal and justice tech experts!