Attending Relativity Fest this year was more than just a professional milestone, it was a highly rewarding personal experience, as I was invited to share my insights on access to justice, a topic that I find extremely meaningful. As a panelist in the Empowering Communities Through Legal Data Intelligence session, I had the privilege of joining a group of informed professionals committed to driving purposeful change and bridging the justice gap through technology.
This session wasn’t just about tools or workflows, it was about people. It was about how we, as legal technologists, can use our platforms to empower underserved communities and drive equitable outcomes. For me, this work is rooted in a lifelong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. From attending an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) to leading DEI efforts, I’ve always agreed with the adage that service is the rent we pay for living on this earth.
Justice for Change: Technology Meets Purpose
One of the most impactful parts of our discussion was the Justice for Change program. This initiative, powered by Relativity, connects legal service providers with pro bono cases focused on racial and social justice. We support these efforts by offering project management and technology services—free of charge—to organizations doing critical work.
What makes Justice for Change so powerful is its accessibility. Clients receive free hosting in RelativityOne, and service providers step in to help them navigate the complexities of eDiscovery. But it’s not just about access, it’s about education. Many of the solo practitioners are encountering legal tech for the first time.
AI as a Catalyst for Justice
We also explored how AI is transforming legal workflows, especially in pro bono cases. From summarizing messy, handwritten police reports to analyzing trial transcripts, AI tools like Relativity aiR help clients save time and uncover insights faster. These tools don’t replace human judgment; they amplify it.
I was particularly inspired by the work some of my fellow panelists are doing with the Georgia Innocence Project. Their team is using AI to streamline early case assessments, building chronologies, witness lists, and exhibit summaries with unprecedented speed. It’s a reminder that innovation isn’t just for big law, it’s for everyone.
Consultative Partnership: Meeting Clients Where They Are
It’s important to approach every engagement—pro bono or otherwise—with the same level of care. We start by asking, “How can we help?” Whether it’s training, onboarding, or workflow design.
We’ve seen firsthand how technology can level the playing field. It’s not just about solving problems, it’s about building confidence.
Looking Ahead: Building a Movement
As we wrapped up the session, I was struck by the energy in the room. People want to help. They want to learn. They want to be part of something bigger. Whether you’re a student, a paralegal, or a seasoned litigator, there’s a place for you in this movement.
If your organization doesn’t have a pro bono policy, be the champion. There are so many opportunities to get involved, and so many people who need your help.
Relativity Fest reminded me that we’re not just technologists. We’re advocates. We’re educators. We’re changemakers. And together, we can build a more just and inclusive legal system.
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