ILTA Awards

Business Partner / I N N O V A T I V E L E A D E R O F T H E Y E A R One of Joe's most significant contributions at Steno has been helping shape the development of Transcript Genius, an AI-powered transcript review platform. Recognizing that traditional transcript review creates major bottlenecks for litigation teams, Joe integrated practitioner feedback directly into the product development cycle. He tested the platform on active Section 1983 excessive force cases, providing real-time feedback to engineers and product teams about how attorneys actually prepare for depositions, cross-examinations, and trial under intense deadlines. This process created a product shaped by real courtroom p r e s s u r e s r a t h e r t h a n t h e o r e t i c a l w o r k f l o w s . J o e documented where the tool accelerated trial preparation, challenged design assumptions that failed during active litigation, and helped refine features that improved attorney efficiency without sacrificing professional judgment. Several matters where Joe deployed Transcript Genius resulted in seven- and eight-figure settlements or verdicts, demonstrating the platform's practical impact on litigation outcomes. Beyond product innovation, Joe is deeply committed to professional education and ethical AI adoption. He hosts the Between the Briefs podcast, where he interviews legal technology leaders and explores responsible AI use in legal practice. Joe also speaks nationally on AI, criminal defense, and legal ethics, with appearances at the National Legal Education Conference, legal technology podcasts, and practitioner webinars focused on practical AI implementation. Joe's published work includes articles for ABA Journal, Bloomberg Law, Law.com, and Legal Reader addressing AI regulation, ethical responsibilities, and practical guidance for law firms navigating generative AI adoption. He is also Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction held by fewer than 10% of Texas criminal defense attorneys. Throughout his work, Joe advocates for technology that strengthens professional judgment rather than replacing it. By combining the perspectives of practitioner, educator, and product leader, Joe has helped shape a more grounded, ethical, and accessible approach to AI innovation within the legal profession. ILTA AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE 2026 4 7

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