Small law firm success and office space options

For independent lawyers and small law firms, the right office space can change the game. Choosing office space can have a direct impact on your small law firm success. 

As more than just a place to hang your shingle, your office space reflects your brand, serves as a hub for client interactions and supports your productivity and work-life balance. 

First impressions

Where do you meet with clients most often? Your office, right? Or rather, if you feel pride in it, you will be happy to welcome clients there.

A professional and welcoming environment builds trust and confidence. A cluttered, outdated or too personal space like your home office can leave a negative impression, potentially costing you clients. Your office space should communicate competence and professionalism and reflect your abilities to represent clients with utmost skill.

Productivity and focus

Your work environment directly affects your focus and productivity. A quiet, organized and well-equipped space allows you to concentrate on your cases and serve your clients effectively. Distractions and a lack of necessary resources can hinder your ability to work efficiently and meet deadlines.

In addition, separating your work and personal life can help you create a schedule that allows you to do both better. Home life stays at home and your work time allows you the space and structure for focused work. 

Cost-effectiveness

Small law firms and independent lawyers must keep overhead costs low. Traditional office leases come with a long-term commitment and much bigger price tag, which ties up significant capital that could be better invested in other areas of your business. 

Non-traditional office spaces for small law firms

Coworking spaces offer a compelling alternative to traditional office leases, especially for independent lawyers and small firms. They provide a professional environment without the hefty cost. 

Here’s why shared office settings have gained more traction with small business owners in recent years:

  • Flexibility. Coworking spaces offer flexible lease terms, allowing you to scale your space as your business grows.
  • Cost savings. Shared amenities like printers, wifi, conference rooms, reception areas and receptionists reduce overhead costs.
  • Efficient time management. The support services offered at a co-working space free up your time for law work. 
  • Networking opportunities. Coworking spaces and shared offices foster a sense of community, providing opportunities to network with other professionals, potentially leading to referrals and collaboration. 
  • Professional image. Many coworking spaces offer a polished and professional atmosphere suitable for client meetings.
  • Work-life balance. Some coworking spaces offer amenities like professional or social events, reducing the sense of isolation that many independent business owners feel.

As this Forbes writer notes, the purpose of office space has evolved considerably over the past decade or so: 

“As stress levels escalate and feelings of isolation mount, redefining the office’s purpose can be an effective way to enhance employee well-being and drive organizational effectiveness. No longer does the office need to be nothing but a site for task completion; now it can also be a pivotal center for fostering collaboration and camaraderie.”

Even larger law firms have started to change how they approach office decisions. For example, a large law firm with an existing long-term lease can sublease to non-competing lawyers to cut overhead costs and to benefit from a more collaborative network. 

Choosing the right space

Whether you opt for a traditional office or a co-working space, consider the following factors:

  • Location. Is it easily accessible for clients? Is it near courts or other relevant locations?
  • Size and layout. Does it offer enough space for your needs, including meeting rooms and private offices? 
  • Scalability. Will it allow your small law firm to grow in the future?
  • Amenities. What amenities are essential for your practice, such as wifi, printing and conference rooms?
  • Budget. How much can you afford to spend on office space?
  • Professionalism. Does the space project the image you want to convey to your clients?

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce notes many benefits of choosing co-working space in this article, summarizing that:

“In recent years, coworking has gained popularity as an alternative to working in coffee shops and home offices. Coworking spaces provide positive work environments that allow workers to share tools, services, and facilities. Studies show that coworking results in 70% of members becoming healthier, 68% of members being better focused, and 64% of members completing tasks in a more timely manner.”

Your office space is an investment in your success. By carefully considering your needs and exploring different options, including the increasingly popular co-working model, you can create an environment that supports your practice and helps you thrive.

Learn more about LawBank communities in Denver and Las Vegas. We offer co-working and shared office space exclusively to lawyers.