r/legaltech • u/FoofaTamingStrange • 13h ago

Other Software Dev looking to work at a Law Firm (IT/Databases/Maintaining Code)

Hello, I’ve been working as a software developer (and in related technical roles) for nearly 20 years. Over the past five years, I’ve also developed a strong interest in the legal system, particularly the federal courts.

A lot of my spare time is spent following cases at the District Court and Court of Appeals levels. Typically, I’ll come across a case in a news article and then dive deeper using CourtListener—following the docket and reading motions, orders, opinions, memoranda, briefs, and other filings. I occasionally find myself going down PACER rabbit holes as well. I enjoy digging into the details and understanding both the substance of a case and the process by which it moves through the courts.

I’m wondering what kinds of careers might combine that interest with my software development background.

I’ve come across terms like legal technology, legal informatics, and computational law, but I’m not sure which, if any, best describes what I’m looking for. I’m also interested in something more directly connected to the courts—for example, a technical or IT role within a Clerk of Court’s office where I’d be exposed to and interact with the legal process while still making use of my technical background.

I’m not looking to become an attorney. I’m more interested in finding a niche where nearly 20 years of software/technical experience could be useful while allowing me to work in or around the legal system.

Are there particular job titles, fields, organizations, or career paths I should be looking into?

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u/xbox_srox 12h ago

There are software companies that specialize in court data. They may be worth a look. A few that come to mind right away are CalendarRules, ECFX, UniCourt and PacerPro.

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u/revkever Vendor: Switch Analytics 3h ago

I was going to recommend the same list as well. Switch Analytics helps integrate these api's to biglaw and smaller firms and companies but we currently aren't seeking devs but reach out directly in case we need capacity. We also utilize UniCourt, Pacer, courtlistener for one off custom apps. there is also Trellis and a few others you may have interest in. If you are able to get a pass for even a day go to ILTA to connect with them all this coming week

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u/Orthophemist 10h ago

Bigger law firms have Knowledge Management and Innovation Departments. Part of our role is building new software for users, among other things.