The key to small law firm success: finding support as an independent lawyer

Small law firms grow and thrive because of referrals, but your network goes much deeper than that. Finding support as an independent lawyer means the people in your life believe in both your professional goals and personal values.

Going solo without isolating

For new independent attorneys, the lack of a traditional law firm structure can feel daunting at first. Without colleagues to consult on cases, independent lawyers can feel isolated. They can also miss the camaraderie and culture that their previous firm provided.

While many solo lawyers start their practices in home offices, that arrangement leaves little room for developing a strong support network. At a minimum, you should plan to attend your local bar events and other business networking events, but don’t stop there.

As this writer observes:

“Just like your personal life, your professional life too is a sum of your relationships. Networking is the ultimate key to boosting business. And it is not just about meeting people at events and accumulating contacts.”

Networking events can lead to longer term connections, but they can also feel inauthentic and overwhelming at times. What you need is people you can call on when you need advice or a break from the stress of a case. You might even find a few people who become friends.

Creating a hybrid schedule for your small law firm and working part time in a shared office community can help. Working alongside other professionals allows relationships to develop based on trust and similar work ethics. In a coworking space, you have a chance to learn from others and ask questions in a more casual, down-to-earth manner.

Growing a law business with intention

Intention, while a bit of a buzzword these days, provides another key to creating a strong network and small law firm culture. Building a firm that fits your style and values, and that supports the lifestyle you want, means cultivating a network that aligns with those goals.

Writer Adam Grant said:

“If we create networks with the sole intention of getting something, we won’t succeed. We can’t pursue the benefits of networks; the benefits ensue from investments in meaningful activities and relationships.”

Building a professional and personal network with intention means seeking out people with whom you can exchange meaning. It is about give and take, and it’s about aligning with people who have a similar or complementary mindset and outlook.

In other words, just because someone is a big name in your area doesn’t mean they are the ideal contact for you. Take time to get to know people and dive deeper with people who will support you in growing a law firm with the values and impact you want to achieve.

The personal side of independent law

Perhaps some of the most important people in your small law firm network will be your family and friends. These people might not provide direct business advice or referrals, but they will support your aspirations to achieve a healthier work-life balance.

The people in your personal network will:

  • Call you out when you work long hours or neglect your health
  • Help you have fun and take breaks from work and business-building
  • Offer a sympathetic ear and encouragement when you need one
  • Give you perspective outside of law and the legal industry
  • Connect you with people in other fields and open new possibilities

Many lawyers leave big law and launch their own firms in an effort to regain some autonomy and control over their work and their lives. Focusing on developing a personal life, and a strong social network, will help you keep an eye on that goal. In law, it’s too easy to work all the time and to become two-dimensional.

When you seek out friendships and connections outside of law and lawyers, it helps you stay grounded and human.

Are you building a small law firm with intention? LawBank’s shared office communities in Denver and Las Vegas might be a good fit for you. Reach out to learn more and book a tour today.