For many people, 2017 was a rather turbulent year. The legal technology world certainly didn't escape the constant whirl of never-ending news cycles and shifting careers and expectations, especially when you look at many of the major regulations, lawsuits, and new technologies that have emerged in the past 12 months.

But one of the main reasons I like legal technology in particular is the fact that it's always looking forward, always trying to be on the cutting edge of what the practice of law not only desires, but needs. No matter your thoughts on this past year, 2018 year is a time for optimism, for looking to see what can and should change, and anticipating needs that may not even be apparent to affected parties themselves.

In the spirit of looking ahead, LTN has compiled some predictions for trends to watch out for next year. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but given the breadth of topics covered in this slideshow, it's clear that those in the know expect major changes in the way attorneys, technologists, and those they work with conduct their day-to-day jobs.

Editor's Note: Quotes are in last name alphabetical order.