2026

The Datta Center for High Tech Law at Santa Clara University School of Law was pleased to once again host the American Bar Association (ABA) AI & Robotics National Institute, bringing together legal professionals and experts to explore the rapidly evolving intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, and the law.

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and reshape legal practice, opportunities to examine emerging technologies and their implications for the profession are increasingly important. The two-day conference provided a valuable forum for learning, exchanging perspectives, and engaging with the legal and ethical questions arising from these technological developments.

Bringing Together Perspectives on AI and the Law

The conference featured an outstanding lineup of speakers who shared their knowledge and perspectives on AI and its implications for the legal profession. Through these discussions, attendees had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of emerging issues and consider how technological advancements are influencing the practice of law.

The program opened with welcome remarks from Joanna M. Justus, Managing Director of the Datta Center for High Tech Law, who welcomed attendees to Santa Clara Law and helped set the stage for conversations about the future of AI, robotics, and legal practice.

A Cross-Disciplinary Perspective on AI 

The second day featured a keynote with Linsey Krolik, Santa Clara University School of Law Adjunct Lecturer for the AI Governance course, and Kendra Sharp, Dean of Santa Clara University’s School of Engineering. Their participation highlighted the value of bringing together perspectives from law and engineering to examine the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies.

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into professional and everyday life, collaboration across disciplines is essential to understanding both the technical capabilities of these tools and the legal, ethical, and societal questions they raise.

Preparing the Next Generation of Lawyers

As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies continue to shape the legal profession, the conversations sparked by programs like this remain essential. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging innovation, and continually examining how technology can inform legal education, the Datta Center for High Tech Law looks forward to helping prepare the next generation of lawyers for the opportunities and challenges ahead.

The Datta Center for High Tech Law extends its gratitude to the American Bar Association, the speakers, and all the participants who helped make this year's AI & Robotics National Institute a valuable learning experience.

We look forward to continuing these important conversations in the years to come.