It can be difficult to focus on work this month. May is when many of us come down with spring fever, yearning to get outside in the garden or the golf course. So this month's checklist is a nice balance of business and pleasure. 1. Start planning coverages for summer vacations. Many firms do not use temporary legal assistants or secretaries anymore. With stepped up … [Read more...] about To-Dos: Your May office checklist
Working with lawyers
How to Celebrate National Administrative Professionals Day
National Administrative Professionals Day, coming up on April 30, is an occasion to recognize and celebrate the hardworking administrative professionals who keep your office running smoothly. As an office manager, this day is an opportunity to show your appreciation for the critical role your administrative staff plays in the success of the organization. Here’s why National … [Read more...] about How to Celebrate National Administrative Professionals Day
Stress Awareness Month: A Chance to Foster Openness and Support
April is Stress Awareness Month, an observance that’s been held every year since 1992 and is sponsored by the Stress Management Society. As an office manager, this is a valuable opportunity to shine a light on a topic that affects everyone—especially in fast-paced, high-pressure workplaces. By using this month to acknowledge stress and talk openly about it, you can take … [Read more...] about Stress Awareness Month: A Chance to Foster Openness and Support
Mastering the Small Law Office: Your Essential Cheat Sheet
Running a small law office means wearing a lot of hats — often at the same time. It’s a balancing act of managing tasks, supporting your team, keeping clients happy, and somehow finding time to breathe. This cheat sheet is your go-to guide for making it all run smoother. Whether you're a seasoned office manager or stepping into the role for the first time, these quick tips and … [Read more...] about Mastering the Small Law Office: Your Essential Cheat Sheet
The Benefit of a Wind-Down Ritual
By Camille Stell Transitioning from work to home was never something I had to think about. In the before (pandemic) times, I stepped away from work by getting in my car for an hour commute. I thought about my day, but I also began to naturally transition away from my work mindset. I listened to music or a podcast, I ran errands, or thought about meal planning, and by the … [Read more...] about The Benefit of a Wind-Down Ritual
Your Role in Preventing Malpractice as a Law Office Administrator
You may not be drafting motions or standing in court, but your role as a law office administrator is absolutely central to safeguarding the firm against malpractice. The systems you build, the processes you enforce, and the oversight you provide all contribute to a legal environment where deadlines are met, client information is protected, and the risk of professional liability … [Read more...] about Your Role in Preventing Malpractice as a Law Office Administrator
Top 10 Essential Skills Every Law Office Manager Needs to Succeed
You play a pivotal role in keeping your firm running smoothly. Whether you're juggling case schedules, overseeing staff, or ensuring compliance with ever-changing regulations, your skill set is the backbone of the office. The expectations are higher than ever, and honing these 10 essential skills can set you apart and ensure your success. 1. Technology Proficiency Legal … [Read more...] about Top 10 Essential Skills Every Law Office Manager Needs to Succeed
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
How Attorneys and Staff Can Improve Timekeeping Habits to Avoid Lost Revenue
Accurate time tracking is the foundation of a profitable law firm. Yet, many firms lose thousands—if not millions—of dollars each year due to untracked or underreported billable time. Poor timekeeping habits, delayed entries, and inefficient processes can eat away at revenue without anyone noticing. As a law office manager, you can help attorneys and staff develop better time … [Read more...] about How Attorneys and Staff Can Improve Timekeeping Habits to Avoid Lost Revenue
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