If you suspect that a partner has an issue with alcohol that is affecting their work, it is a delicate yet urgent matter that requires careful handling. Addressing this situation with professionalism, discretion, and adherence to legal and ethical guidelines is essential for the well-being of the partner, the staff, and the firm as a whole. Here’s how to approach this … [Read more...] about Supporting Law Firm Partners and Protecting the Practice: Addressing Alcohol Concerns with Care
Managing staff
How to Handle Staff Scheduling Challenges Without Losing Your Mind
Managing staff schedules in a law office can feel like an endless game of chess—one where the rules keep changing and the pieces sometimes disappear. Between court dates, client meetings, vacations, and last-minute emergencies, keeping everyone’s schedule aligned can be a serious challenge. But with the right strategies, you can keep things running smoothly without pulling your … [Read more...] about How to Handle Staff Scheduling Challenges Without Losing Your Mind
Personalize Incentives to Enhance Motivation for Law Office Staff
In a law office where deadlines loom large and client needs demand attention, fostering motivation and engagement among staff members is crucial. While traditional incentives like Starbucks cards or Amazon gift certificates have their place, law office administrators can elevate employee morale and productivity by embracing a more personalized approach to recognition and … [Read more...] about Personalize Incentives to Enhance Motivation for Law Office Staff
How to Handle Chronically Late Staffers Without Losing Your Cool
You’ve probably dealt with it more than once: that one staffer who always seems to stroll in 10, 15, or even 30 minutes late. Not just once in a while—but regularly. It throws off team dynamics, irritates coworkers, and sends the message that punctuality is optional. The trick is handling it without creating unnecessary drama—or letting it slide until it becomes a major … [Read more...] about How to Handle Chronically Late Staffers Without Losing Your Cool
Tick Those Unpleasant Tasks Off Your To-Do List
Avoiding something unpleasant is the main reason people procrastinate. Try one of these four approaches when you face an unpleasant task: Do it. There’s an adrenaline rush from knowing you’ve completed an unpleasant task. Finishing something you’ve been putting off will energize you for the rest of the day. Don’t do it yet. If you’re not sure what to do, putting off … [Read more...] about Tick Those Unpleasant Tasks Off Your To-Do List
Managing Policies, Technology, and Support Systems for Remote and Hybrid Work
The world of work has undergone a significant transformation, and like many, your law office is probably embracing remote and hybrid work models. As the person who keeps everything running smoothly, you play a crucial role in making this transition successful. Let's talk about how you can effectively implement and manage the necessary policies, technology, and support systems … [Read more...] about Managing Policies, Technology, and Support Systems for Remote and Hybrid Work
Oversharing: Can You Please Curb Your TMI?
By Lynne Curry When “Heather” met with her boss to request a week of personal leave, she didn’t intend to spill her deepest secrets. But Heather needed someone to understand—the sleepless nights, the gut-wrenching choice, the unbearable fear of raising a child with birth defects. Her boss listened without judgment. Still, in the days that followed, Heather couldn’t … [Read more...] about Oversharing: Can You Please Curb Your TMI?
Seize Control of Your Workday
Your to-do list is long, your inbox is overflowing, and everyone seems to need something from you—right now. As a law office administrator, your day can feel like a nonstop whirlwind of requests, interruptions, and unexpected fires to put out. But instead of letting the day control you, it’s time to take control of your day. With a few key strategies, you can stay organized, … [Read more...] about Seize Control of Your Workday
10 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Admin Staff
As a law office manager, you know that an efficient and skilled administrative team is the backbone of your practice. But the legal world doesn’t stand still—laws change, technology evolves, and client expectations grow. To keep your team sharp and your office running smoothly, it’s essential to foster an environment of continuous learning. Here’s how to create a culture where … [Read more...] about 10 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Admin Staff
Surviving the Earthquake of a Law Firm Takeover, Merger, or Acquisition
When a takeover, merger, or acquisition shakes up your law firm, it can feel like the ground beneath your feet has shifted. As a law office administrator, you’re often at the epicenter of the change, balancing leadership expectations, staff concerns, and operational disruptions. While the tremors may feel overwhelming, with the right approach, you can emerge stronger and more … [Read more...] about Surviving the Earthquake of a Law Firm Takeover, Merger, or Acquisition