2026 Annual Meeting and Futures Conference
Leading in the Intelligent Era: 
Human Judgment, Shared Leadership, and the Future of Legal Service

Venue: Practising Law Institute's Anita C. Shapiro Conference Center, 1177 Sixth Avenue, New York, NY 10036 
(Note: Conference attendees are to enter and exit the building via the West 45th Street entrance.) 

Dates: February 23-25, 2026 

Click here for an overview, here for rate/cancellation information, and here for the preliminary schedule. REGISTER NOW! Those who are already registered may download the Registration List, which is regularly updated, via the Meetings tab, above. (Login required)

The black-tie Honors Gala on Monday evening is completely booked. (We still have seats available for the Conference, but those are also going quickly!) Don’t worry—there’s still a chance to join the celebration by adding your name to our waitlist via your conference registration form. As seats open up, we’ll reach out to waitlisted guests. We hope to welcome you soon! 

First Keynote Speaker Announced

Visionary. Trailblazer. Global authority on the future of legal services. 

We are honored to welcome Professor Richard Susskind CBE KC (Hon) as our featured keynote speaker for the 2026 Futures Conference. No name is more synonymous with the future of law than Richard Susskind’s. For over four decades, he has shaped how the legal world thinks about transformation, technology, and tomorrow. His insights into artificial intelligence, online courts, and the evolution of professional services have influenced governments, judiciaries, and legal organizations across the globe. Click here for more information about Richard and his impressive credentials. Register now  

Second Keynote Speaker Announced

The 2026 College of Law Practice Management Futures Conference welcomes 7x Emmy-winning comedy writer and comedian Beth Sherman as its second keynote speaker. Her engaging session will highlight how humor and storytelling can elevate leadership, offering attendees practical strategies for building trust, communicating effectively, and leading with empathy and authenticity Click here for more information about Beth. Register now!

Futures Forum Recap

Who Will You Be In 2026? The Reinvention Imperative for Lawyers

This recording is a must-watch! Learn directly from Professor Michele DeStefano about adapting to changing client expectations, becoming a true business partner, and developing the skills that will define tomorrow’s successful legal professionals. In a session moderated by College of Law Practice Management Fellow Terri Mottershead, these thought leaders engaged in a candid, eye-opening conversation about how lawyers can reinvent themselves before the future forces their hand. As an added bonus, Michele has generously shared her recommended reading list, helping you continue your journey of growth and learning.

Participants were inspired with the call to “do something that scares you to death” and “go challenge yourself,” setting the stage for a journey of professional renewal. 

SOLD OUT! Black-Tie Gala is Back: A Night to Honor Excellence

Kick off the conference with a night of recognition and connection. Join us Monday, February 23, 2026, for an elegant evening at the "Robert," atop the Museum of Arts & Design at Columbus Circle. This stunning venue—with floor-to-ceiling views of Central Park—sets the scene for honoring the profession’s brightest innovators and newest inductees into the College. The evening includes:

  • Formal Induction of the 2026 Class of College Fellows
  • Presentation of the Michael Mills InnovAction Award
  • Cocktail Reception with Seated Dinner and Entertainment
  • Meaningful Connections with Legal Innovation Leaders

Registered attendees and their ticketed guests are invited to attend. Limited seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so you'll want to register early for the 2026 Annual Meeting and Futures Conference!