How to reclaim your time as an independent lawyer The solo practice life promised you freedom. You'd set your own hours, choose your clients and finally escape the soul-crushing billable hour expectations of big law. Then reality hit: you're working nights, weekends and holidays just to keep the lights on. Your independence somehow became a prison of [...]
The benefits of a small law firm summer break At the midpoint of the year, take time to slow down, reassess and refresh your business for the next six months and beyond. Your small law firm summer reset can help you save energy and build momentum for future growth. Business owners, including independent lawyers, often [...]
A client-focused small law firm can set you apart from the competition While large firms compete on reputation and resources, you have something they don't: the ability to truly prioritize client service as your competitive edge. As you build a client-focused small law firm, keep in mind the following points. Your natural advantage over big [...]
What is a second act for lawyers after leaving Big Law? For many lawyers who followed a traditional track from undergrad to law school to a career in Big Law, shifting gears mid-career can come with big questions. Think of this shift as a second act for lawyers. Why lawyers leave big law For many [...]
Embrace and use your imposter syndrome as an independent lawyer Leaving the relative comfort of the structured path that is Big Law can leave many lawyers feeling lost or inadequate. When you can learn to move past your imposter syndrome as an independent lawyer, new opportunities reveal themselves. Why lawyers feel like imposters At its [...]
Make a nontraditional law office model work for your small firm Independent lawyers and small law firms have an abundance of choices in how to structure their business. Below are some ideas for creating a nontraditional law office model that works for you and your practice area. Niche law firm model Choosing a niche law [...]
Build a healthy small law firm culture for yourself and staff Long hours and no life outside of work no longer have to become reality for career lawyers. When you set out to build an independent practice, you can set the stage for creating a healthier small law firm culture. Culture matters, even for solo [...]
Lawyer networking that works for you and your firm's culture Independent lawyers need strong professional relationships, but many of us don't enjoy strings of networking events. Here are a few tips for lawyer networking that don't involve awkward hours at events you don't want to attend. Activate your dormant contacts Rather than meeting a room [...]
This independent law guide helps you create a better law firm culture and stay sane in the process Many lawyers choose to leave the long hours and stress that often comes with Big Law life, but then fall into some of the same patterns of overwork. Think of the following tips as your independent law [...]
