It's crucial to ensure that the law firm operates within the boundaries of the law and adheres to relevant regulations. Running afoul of the law can have serious consequences for the firm's reputation, finances, and even legal standing. Here are some, but not all, the ways a law office can get into trouble with the law and regulations: Unauthorized Practice of Law: … [Read more...] about 18 ways your firm can run afoul of the law and regulations
Client relations
Model Retainer Agreement
Why you need this Model Retainer Agreement: Many clients don't like to pay their legal bills and without having measures in place to ensure payments, law firms can run into huge headaches. One best practice is to lay out your billing arrangements and hourly fees charged by partners, associates, and paralegals in your retainer agreement. How this Model Retainer Agreement helps … [Read more...] about Model Retainer Agreement
8 common mistakes in client billing and how to avoid them
Billing errors are common and can lead to disputes, loss of client trust, and financial setbacks. Here’s an overview of common mistakes in client billing and strategies to avoid them. One frequent mistake is inaccurate time tracking. Lawyers often juggle multiple clients and tasks, making it easy to misrecord billable hours. To avoid this, implement a robust time-tracking … [Read more...] about 8 common mistakes in client billing and how to avoid them
How to hire a great receptionist
A receptionist is often the first point of contact for clients and can significantly influence their perception of your firm. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you hire a great receptionist who aligns with your office’s needs and culture. 1. Define the Role Clearly Before starting the hiring process, define what you need from a receptionist. The responsibilities may … [Read more...] about How to hire a great receptionist
Harnessing voice technology for seamless operations
In the realm of modern legal practice, the integration of technology has become increasingly crucial for optimizing operations and maintaining a competitive edge. Among the array of technological innovations available, voice technology has emerged as a game-changer for law office administrators. Consider the ways in which voice technology can be harnessed to streamline various … [Read more...] about Harnessing voice technology for seamless operations
Checklist: Before you leave on vacation
Your long-awaited and well-deserved summer vacation is approaching. Is your staff prepared to run the office smoothly in your absence? Use this list to see if you have the bases covered. Vacation Preparation Checklist for Law Office Administrators Delegate Responsibilities: Assign the paralegal to handle client intake and initial case assessments during your … [Read more...] about Checklist: Before you leave on vacation
Notice to Client of Increase in Hourly Rate
Why you need this Model Notice to Client: Clients should be notified in writing of any fee increases 30 days in advance. This protects both the firm and the client. Informing your client of what to expect and when to expect it will help your client prepare for the extra expense. How this Model Notice to Client helps you: The Notice needs to be clear, brief, and readable. … [Read more...] about Notice to Client of Increase in Hourly Rate
Model Billing Statement
Why you need this Model Billing Statement: Many clients don't like to pay their legal bills and without having measures in place to ensure payments, law firms can run into huge headaches. One best practice is to ensure that your billing statement clearly outlines what services your clients are receiving for their money. How this Model Billing Statement helps you: Use this … [Read more...] about Model Billing Statement
9 tips for getting your lawyers onto the speaking circuit
One effective way to showcase your firm's expertise, build brand recognition, and enhance professional development is by encouraging your lawyers to participate in conferences and web events as speakers. By leveraging these platforms, your attorneys can make a significant impact, both individually and collectively. Consider these benefits that arise from encouraging your … [Read more...] about 9 tips for getting your lawyers onto the speaking circuit
TOOL: Model Notice and Waiver of Conflict of Interest
Why you need this model Notice: This model Notice will help your efforts to protect your practice from the risk of violating conflict of interest rules. How this model Notice helps you: If a potential conflict of interest exists, but the parties still want the firm to represent their legal interests, have all parties sign a Waiver of Conflict of Interest, acknowledging the … [Read more...] about TOOL: Model Notice and Waiver of Conflict of Interest