When everything is urgent, costs rise fast—errors, burnout, and slow billing included. Every law office has urgency. That’s normal. What hurts profitability is not urgency—it’s constant urgency. When everything is treated as an emergency, nothing gets done well. Urgent culture usually starts with good intentions. Clients matter. Deadlines matter. Responsiveness matters. But … [Read more...] about The “Urgent” Culture That’s Quietly Killing Margins
Managing the office
6 Ways Formal Job Descriptions Benefit Your Law Office
Small businesses, including legal practices, often try to get by without formal job descriptions. The thinking is the manager knows what each position requires, and she or he can share this information with job candidates and new hires. Another argument is that because job tasks tend to change, job descriptions quickly become outdated. Neither of these arguments takes … [Read more...] about 6 Ways Formal Job Descriptions Benefit Your Law Office
Points to Make in your Law Firm Parking Policy
With convenience, safety and even prestige at stake, the law office parking lot can be the topic—and scene—of disputes. One way to keep things relatively civil is to establish a parking space policy. Here are some key points to cover in a policy. Space Allocation: Determine how parking spaces will be allocated within the firm's premises. Consider factors such as the total … [Read more...] about Points to Make in your Law Firm Parking Policy
Running a Small Office Without Running Yourself Ragged
When you manage a small law office, you're not just "the office manager"—you're often the receptionist, the billing coordinator, the IT support, the HR department, and the go-to problem solver. With just a couple other administrative staffers around you, it's all about smart juggling, creative teamwork, and knowing how to lead while getting your own work done. First, get … [Read more...] about Running a Small Office Without Running Yourself Ragged
Keep Those Payables Paid with These Procedures
Managing accounts payable is a critical aspect of running a law firm efficiently and responsibly. Establishing well-defined processes and practices for accounts payable can help your firm maintain financial stability, build strong relationships with vendors, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Here's some advice on how to set up effective accounts payable … [Read more...] about Keep Those Payables Paid with These Procedures
How You Can Support Associates’ Professional Development
The law office administrator can have a significant impact on the professional development of your associates. By fostering a culture that encourages continuous learning, providing mentorship opportunities, and promoting growth, you can help build a stronger, more capable team. Here’s how you can play a pivotal role in supporting your associates’ professional development. 1. … [Read more...] about How You Can Support Associates’ Professional Development
Questions a New Administrator Should Ask the Managing Partner
Congratulations on your new position as the law office administrator, reporting directly to the managing partner. As you prepare for your first meeting with the managing partner, it's essential to ask the right questions to gain clarity on your role and responsibilities. Here are some questions to consider. What are the key priorities for the law office in the next six … [Read more...] about Questions a New Administrator Should Ask the Managing Partner
10 Steps to Build Your Confidence as a New Office Manager
Starting a new role as an office manager can be an exciting yet challenging experience. It’s not uncommon to feel a bit overwhelmed in the beginning, but by taking proactive steps, you can build your confidence and excel in your new position. Here are some valuable tips to help you grow in your role as an office manager: 1. Understand Your … [Read more...] about 10 Steps to Build Your Confidence as a New Office Manager
Taking Care of Yourself as the Work Pace Ramps Up
January can feel like being thrust into a race after a peaceful stroll. The holidays are over, the inbox is full, and deadlines seem to stack up faster than you can tackle them. As the manager of a busy office, you're often the one holding it all together, but who’s holding you together? Let’s be honest: you can’t take care of your team, your clients, or your office if … [Read more...] about Taking Care of Yourself as the Work Pace Ramps Up
Case Management Audit Checklist
Objective: Ensure efficiency, compliance, and client satisfaction in the case management process. Use this checklist during regular audits to assess the effectiveness of case management practices and identify areas for improvement. 1. Case Load Distribution Workload Balance: Verify that cases are distributed equitably among attorneys to avoid … [Read more...] about Case Management Audit Checklist