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
5 basics to get you started on succession planning
By Brenda Barnes From solo practitioners to attorneys in large firms, all attorneys must prepare for the days they are no longer able to practice law. Succession planning proactively protects clients and colleagues in the event of an attorney’s death or incapacitation. Only four states require private practice attorneys to plan for an end-of-career transition by … [Read more...] about 5 basics to get you started on succession planning
8 ways to keep your clients happy with you
Happy and satisfied clients not only contribute to the success of your firm but also become valuable advocates for your services. By providing exceptional client experiences, you can build strong relationships, foster loyalty, and promote positive word-of-mouth referrals. In this article, we will explore essential tips to help law office administrators improve client … [Read more...] about 8 ways to keep your clients happy with you
Enforce those billing and collection guidelines
Getting paid or not getting paid to a great extent depends on the firm’s billing and collection guidelines—and whether they are enforced. Without guidelines, the firm is asking for money loss. Billing is haphazard, collection work isn’t done regularly, personal clients aren’t always satisfied with their bills, and corporate clients may hold up payment or contest the … [Read more...] about Enforce those billing and collection guidelines
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
Nurturing talent: Unleashing the potential of employees
Retaining top talent is crucial for the success of any law office. To do so, law office managers must recognize the importance of developing and empowering high-potential employees. By identifying these individuals and providing them with leadership opportunities, you can not only increase their job satisfaction but also enhance the overall performance and growth of your law … [Read more...] about Nurturing talent: Unleashing the potential of employees
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
6 realities about client billing and how to address them
By Elizabeth M. Miller bio Nothing strikes a nerve with clients more than having to pay legal fees. I am not sure why, but some clients think it is acceptable to expect their lawyers to work for free, something they don't expect anyone else to do. In today's economy, clients are looking for reduced legal fees and results. Value billing and flat fee billing structures are … [Read more...] about 6 realities about client billing and how to address them
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
To-Dos: Your March office checklist
March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. That's outside, where winter storms give way to springtime calm. Inside, there can also be a whirlwind of activity, especially if you're tackling office-wide organizational and spring-cleaning projects. If this is the month you strive to bring order to the firm, here are some tasks you can tackle. The office: 1. … [Read more...] about To-Dos: Your March office checklist