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Attending continuing legal education (CLE) conferences is a fantastic way for legal practitioners and legal industry leaders to stay on top of industry trends, network with peers, and learn from experts. In 2024, there are several conferences worth attending. Here’s my summary of each conference and an explanation of why it’s great, with key details so you can plan to attend. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, explore new technologies, in legal industry develop partnerships with exhibitors, or understand the latest market dynamics, these conferences are a great place to start.

Here's a shortlist of the best continuing legal education conferences I think are worth attending in 2024: 

  1. British Legal History Conference 2024 - Bristol, UK (July 2024)
  2. Clio Cloud Conference - Austin, TX (October 2024)
  3. Legalweek - New York, NY (March 2025)
  4. LMA Annual Conference - San Diego, CA (April 2024)
  5. 2024 ABA Dispute Resolution Spring Conference - San Diego, CA (April 2024)
  6. 2024 ABA-IPL Section Annual Meeting - Rockville, MD (April 2024)
  7. Legal Up 2024 - Virtual (April 2024)

Find more details about each conference below.

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Audience members are seated in a lecture hall, attentively listening at the British Legal History Conference
British Legal History Conference 2024

Overview:

This conference, hosted by the University of Bristol Law School, delves into the rich tapestry of British legal history. It covers a wide range of topics, from medieval legal practices to modern legal reforms. Expect to hear from leading historians and legal scholars.

Why You Should Attend:

If you have an interest in how historical legal frameworks have shaped current laws and practices, this is a must-attend. It offers a deep dive into the origins and evolution of British law, providing context that can enrich your understanding of modern legal challenges.

2. Clio Cloud Conference - Austin, TX (October 2024)

A speaker presents at the Clio Cloud Conference, addressing a audience in a conference hall
Clio Cloud Conference

Overview:

The Clio Cloud Conference is all about legal technology and innovation. It features discussions on how to leverage technology in your practice, improve client experiences, and manage your firm more efficiently.

Why You Should Attend:

Understanding and utilizing legal tech is crucial. This conference is perfect for legal professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in legal technology and practice management.

3. Legalweek - New York, NY (March 2025)

Speakers participate in a panel discussion on a stage at the LegalWeek event
Legalweek

Overview:

Legalweek is one of the largest legal industry gatherings, bringing together thousands of legal professionals to discuss challenges, solutions, and trends across all practice areas.

Why You Should Attend:

With a broad range of topics and a diverse group of speakers, Legalweek offers unparalleled networking opportunities and insights into the future of the legal profession.

4. LMA Annual Conference - San Diego, CA (April 2024)

A group of professionals gather around a vendor booth at the LMA Annual Conference
LMA Annual Conference

Overview:

This conference focuses on legal marketing and business development. It's designed for legal marketing professionals, attorneys, and law firm administrators who are looking to grow their firms.

Why You Should Attend:

The competitive landscape of the legal market demands a robust understanding of marketing and business development strategies. The LMA Annual Conference is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights from leading experts in the field. This year, keynote speaker Jamie M. Lawless, Chief Executive at Husch Blackwell, brings a wealth of experience in driving growth and innovation within law firms.

Additionally, Adhi Reza, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications at Lenczner Slaght LLP, will share cutting-edge marketing strategies that have propelled his firm to success. These speakers, among others, will provide actionable advice and fresh perspectives on branding, client relationships, and market expansion.

5. 2024 ABA Dispute Resolution Spring Conference - San Diego, CA (April 2024)

A presenter stands addressing an audience at the ABA Dispute Resolution Spring Conference
2024 ABA Dispute Resolution Spring Conference

Overview:

The American Bar Association focuses on dispute resolution, this event covers mediation, arbitration, and negotiation techniques. It's ideal for professionals looking to hone their dispute-resolution skills or explore new strategies.

Why You Should Attend:

Dispute resolution is an integral part of legal practice. This conference offers a deep dive into effective techniques and emerging trends in the field.

6. 2024 ABA-IPL Section Annual Meeting - Rockville, MD (April 2024)

Attendees seated in a conference room focusing on a speaker at the ABA-IPL Section Annual Meeting
2024 ABA-IPL Section Annual Meeting

Overview:

Dedicated to intellectual property law, this conference covers the latest in IP trends, legislation, and practice tips. It's a great opportunity to learn from and network with IP professionals.

Why You Should Attend:

For those specializing in or interested in intellectual property law, this conference offers a comprehensive overview of the field’s current state and future directions.

A virtual conference call showing multiple participants at the Level Up event
Legal Up 2024

Overview:

LegalUp focuses on legal innovation, offering insights into legal automation, AI, and other emerging technologies. It's accessible online, making it easy to attend no matter where you are.

Why You Should Attend:

If you're interested in the future of legal practice and how technology can streamline operations, LegalUp is an excellent resource. Plus, its online format allows for flexible participation.

Summary

In summary, each of these conferences offers a unique opportunity to deepen your legal expertise, learn about the latest trends and technologies, and network with peers. Whether you're interested in legal history, technology, marketing, dispute resolution, or intellectual property, there's something for everyone. If you know of other conferences that would be beneficial for legal practitioners, feel free to share your suggestions. Keeping abreast of these opportunities can significantly enhance your practice and professional growth.

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Ben Aston

Ben Aston is an online media entrepreneur and founder of Black & White Zebra, an indie media company on a mission to help people and organizations succeed.

Since 2011, he has been evaluating, reviewing, and helping to recommend software through hundreds of articles across the company's influential digital publications, seeking to make technical workplace topics fun and easier to understand.