We all know how technology has changed the way we live and work over the last few decades. In this age of technology, industries, and professions that apparently have little to do with technology are also getting impacted by the recent advances in technology. Law and the legal profession is one of the many areas where technology can make a significant difference. Be it a criminal case or a child custody lawsuit, we can expect technology to play a major role in the near future.  

While it is a little farfetched to imagine courts full of ‘robot lawyers,’ it can’t be denied that the legal field has a lot to gain from technology. Mentioned below are some of the many ways technology has already started changing the way law is practiced.

• One of the foremost benefits of using technology in the legal field is the automation of low-value legal activities. Often times, the stereotypical image of a lawyer is that of an office worker with loads of paperwork. However, advanced technology tools make it possible to automate repetitive, low-value legal tasks. For example, an automated non-disclosure agreement is already being tested by a renowned technology company. This eliminates the need for manual work for the completion of basic legal work. 
• Technology can help law firms create value in several new ways such as smart contracts. As some of the readers may already know, smart contracts can execute certain parts of its function on its own. As an example, the transfer of ownership in a car sales contract can be complete automatically, as soon as the contract gets signed. Application of such technology tools increases efficiency, reduces the fees, and eliminates a significant part of the administrative work required to create a contract.
• As in any other industry, technology can bring about a lot of work-related flexibility in the legal profession. A significant part of legal research is now conducted online and it can be done remotely with the help of technology. Working in the legal field has an infamous reputation because of its poor work-life balance. Technology can go a long way in improving the present scenario. From writing up a summons to searching up legal cases, new technology can certainly make things more accessible from any remote location.  
• In the legal field, the facts are often uncontested in areas where the law is well-defined.  In the near future, there is a high likelihood of more mundane cases being adjudicated using software applications. For example, as far as contesting a fine is concerned, the law is clear and the stakes are not too high. Artificial intelligence or software can have a role in deciding these cases. However, as of now, there are certain challenges in applying these technology tools for more complicated legal proceedings such as a criminal lawsuit. 
• Data mining is another advanced technology that legal professionals are expected to use extensively in the future. This technology can reveal numerous invaluable insights to assist legal practitioners. All law firms are required to generate and store enormous amounts of data. Many of these firms have already recognized the untapped value of data, and have started leveraging sophisticated technologies for data mining.
• Finally, this discussion will remain incomplete without mentioning the importance of modern mobile technology. With instant access to critical records, maps, dispatchers, and data, today’s law enforcement professionals are certainly better equipped to manage incidents and react promptly to challenging situations. Mobile technologies have also improved situational awareness, productivity,   agency workflows, as well as officer safety in the legal space. Advanced mobile solutions can also be used to improve law enforcement data in many different ways.