Pace Johnson Law Group

What are the major trends shaping the legal industry today?The legal industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by technological innovation, evolving client expectations, and regulatory complexity. From the integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) to the rise of alternative legal service providers (ALSPs), law firms and corporate legal departments are navigating a landscape where adaptability and strategic foresight are critical.

How do you balance client advocacy with legal ethics?The interplay between zealous client advocacy and strict adherence to legal ethics represents one of the most complex challenges in legal practice. This balance requires us to harmonize our duty to vigorously represent clients with their obligations as officers of the court and guardians of justice.

What’s been a defining moment in your legal career? My life changed the day my best friend was wrongfully convicted. I knew he was innocent, but at the time, I knew nothing about the law. Watching him lose years with his family was devastating—and it lit a fire in me. I promised him, and myself, that I’d do everything possible to set things right.
With no legal background, I dove into law books, case files, and late-night research. Piece by piece, I uncovered the evidence that proved his innocence—a detail in a police report everyone else had missed. After months of relentless work, we finally succeeded in vacating his conviction. The relief and joy in that courtroom were overwhelming, but so was the realization that countless others are trapped by the same system.
That experience drove me to become an attorney, determined to fight for those who can’t fight for themselves. Looking back, I see how modern legal technology—like case management and AI-powered document review—could have made our journey faster and more efficient. Today, I use these tools to ensure no detail is missed and no innocent person is left behind.
My friend’s story isn’t just about one case—it’s about transforming pain into purpose, and using every resource, old and new, to deliver justice.

How is technology impacting legal research and case management?Technology empowers legal professionals to deliver better, faster results for clients while minimizing errors and administrative burdens. By embracing these advancements, law firms can stay competitive, improve client satisfaction, and focus on what matters most—delivering justice.

What are the biggest challenges facing lawyers today?Lawyers in 2025 face a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by technology, client demands, and regulatory complexity. Today’s lawyers must be agile—embracing innovation, safeguarding data, prioritizing client needs, and upholding ethical standards—all while managing the pressures of a demanding and fast-changing profession.

How do you mentor the next generation of legal professionals?We mentor the next generation of legal professionals—whether through internships, law clerkships, or formal mentorship programs—requires a thoughtful, hands-on approach that blends real-world experience with personal guidance. Mentoring future legal professionals means teaching by example, offering real responsibility, providing honest feedback, and building relationships that last. It’s about helping students bridge the gap between law school and legal practice—and inspiring them to pay it forward as mentors themselves.

What advice would you give to someone considering law as a career?Law is not just a profession—it’s a calling that requires resilience, curiosity, and a genuine desire to help others. If you’re willing to learn, work hard, and stay true to your values, you’ll find a place in this field where you can make a real difference.