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
Working with lawyers
New Case Opening Checklist
Opening a new case properly sets the tone for the entire client experience and the case’s ultimate success. This checklist is designed to guide law office administrators through the critical internal steps needed to launch a new matter efficiently, securely, and in full compliance with office procedures. Completing each step ensures that attorneys and staff have everything they … [Read more...] about New Case Opening Checklist
Why “Thank You” Matters More Than You Think
It’s easy to get swept up in the to-do lists, reports, scheduling, and troubleshooting that fill an office manager’s day. You’re juggling a hundred moving pieces, and just getting through the day without a printer jam or a staff meltdown feels like a win. But amid the whirlwind, there’s one small habit that can make a big difference—for morale, for relationships, and even for … [Read more...] about Why “Thank You” Matters More Than You Think
7 Ways to Manage the Midnight Pings
You’re brushing your teeth. Your phone buzzes. It’s your boss. You’re making dinner. Ping. Still your boss.You’re in bed, face mask on, finally relaxed. Ding. Guess who? If your boss seems to believe that email has no off-switch, you’re not alone. In today’s hyper-connected world, the line between “at work” and “off-duty” can blur fast—especially when the … [Read more...] about 7 Ways to Manage the Midnight Pings
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
January To-Do List for a Busy Law Office Manager
January marks the start of a new year, bringing opportunities to review, plan, and set your law office up for success. It’s the ideal time to address lingering tasks from the previous year while laying the groundwork for a productive and efficient year ahead. Here’s a detailed to-do list tailored to the needs of a busy law office manager. 1. Year-End Wrap-Up Ensure … [Read more...] about January To-Do List for a Busy Law Office Manager
Want to Work Smarter, Not Harder? AI Can Help You Do Just That
Artificial intelligence isn’t just for tech wizards and big law firms anymore—it’s quickly becoming a must-have tool in legal administration. Whether you're juggling scheduling, document management, billing, or legal research support, AI can help you streamline the busywork and free up time for higher-value tasks. And the best part? You don’t need a tech background to get … [Read more...] about Want to Work Smarter, Not Harder? AI Can Help You Do Just That
Prove Tech Competency at Your Law Firm
By Doug Striker Clients are increasingly asking law firms to prove tech competency before signing contracts for work. Why? Because they know that good tech skills translate into more efficient production, which translates into more bang for their buck. Simply put: Clients don’t want to pay high hourly rates if the people producing the work don’t know how to, say, format a … [Read more...] about Prove Tech Competency at Your Law Firm
End-of-Year Compliance Review Checklist
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time for law office administrators to take stock of compliance practices and ensure the firm is on solid ground heading into the new year. From trust accounting to CLE compliance, a thorough review can help identify any overlooked details, maintain regulatory standards, and set a strong foundation for the months ahead. Use this … [Read more...] about End-of-Year Compliance Review Checklist
To Make a Point, Use the Body Language that Supports Your Words
Few managers realize that successful communication depends heavily on body language. When people don't get the response they expect, they need to understand that their bodies aren't sending the messages they think they're conveying. Much of the message that gets picked up in a conversation comes from motions and gestures. And it works both ways. A manager has to know body … [Read more...] about To Make a Point, Use the Body Language that Supports Your Words