PDEsquire

Unveiling the Vital Role of Per Diem Attorneys in Legal Support

In the intricate tapestry of the legal world, certain roles stand out for their flexibility, adaptability, and indispensability. Among these, per diem attorneys emerge as unsung heroes, quietly but effectively wielding their expertise to support law firms and clients alike. In this article, we delve into the crucial role played by per diem attorneys and shed light on the invaluable contributions they make to the legal landscape.

1. Understanding the Per Diem Attorney

First and foremost, let’s clarify what it means to be a per diem attorney. Unlike traditional full-time staff attorneys, per diem attorneys are hired on a case-by-case or temporary basis to handle specific legal tasks. They offer their services for a set fee, often on short notice, providing flexibility for law firms and clients who require immediate assistance or specialized expertise.

2. The Versatility Advantage

One of the key advantages of per diem attorneys lies in their versatility. They can step in to handle various legal matters, from court appearances and depositions to drafting legal documents and conducting legal research. This versatility allows law firms to efficiently manage their workload fluctuations and ensure that all aspects of a case are addressed promptly and effectively.

3. Meeting Deadlines with Ease

Deadlines are a constant in the legal profession and missing them is not an option. Per diem attorneys play a crucial role in helping law firms meet their deadlines by providing additional support during busy periods or when primary legal counsel is unavailable. Their ability to quickly grasp the intricacies of a case and take immediate action ensures that deadlines are met without compromising on quality.

4. Navigating Complex Legal Proceedings

Legal proceedings can be complex and demanding, requiring a deep understanding of the law and courtroom etiquette. Per diem attorneys bring their expertise to the table, navigating these proceedings with confidence and professionalism. Whether representing clients in court or advocating on their behalf during negotiations, per diem attorneys serve as trusted allies in the pursuit of justice.

5. Enhancing Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness

In an era where efficiency and cost-effectiveness are paramount, per diem attorneys offer a practical solution for law firms and clients alike. By hiring per diem attorneys on an as-needed basis, law firms can avoid the overhead costs associated with full-time staff while still accessing top-tier legal talent. This streamlined approach allows for greater flexibility in resource allocation and ensures that legal services are delivered in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Read the full article HERE:
https://www.zrperdiem.com/blog/the-scope-of-per-diem-attorney

6 Things You Can Do to Build a Good Law Firm Culture

In the dynamic world of law firms, fostering a positive and cohesive culture is essential. It not only influences employee satisfaction but also impacts client relationships and overall success. Discover these six actionable strategies to build a strong and thriving culture within your law firm.

1.  Select the Ideal Candidates for Your Law Firm.
While skills, education, and experience are undoubtedly vital for law firm employees, it's equally crucial to ensure that they align with your firm's vision and values. This alignment goes beyond qualifications and fosters a team that shares a common purpose and ethics.

2.  Empower Staff Members with an Understanding of Your Core Values.
Your values serve as guiding principles for your employees and staff members. However, unless you effectively communicate these values, your team cannot make decisions that align with your firm's core principles.

3. Establish Performance Metrics and Incentives.
Take a close look at your law firm's core values and find ways to measure and reward employees who live by those values. For instance, if your firm values community engagement, acknowledge and reward those who participate in volunteer work.

4.  Maintain a Steady Management Approach.
Being consistent in your management style is essential for building trust, maintaining fairness, providing clarity, and creating a stable and productive work environment. It helps you lead with integrity and build a stronger, more cohesive team.

5. Advocate for a Well-Balanced Work and Personal Life.
Promoting a healthy work-life balance is a win-win for both employees and employers. It leads to happier, more productive, and loyal employees while also contributing to a positive company culture and overall success.

6.  Foster Supportive Connections and Build Trust.
Encouraging positive relationships and trust within a group is crucial for creating a harmonious and productive working environment. When individuals feel connected and supported by their colleagues, they are more likely to work cohesively, communicate effectively, and achieve common objectives.

We spend most of our waking hours at work. Our co-workers become our friends, support system, and partners in the trenches. It is crucial to be able to trust your co-workers to have your back, but we also need to like the people we work with each day.

Read the full article HERE
https://www.theceomagazine.com/opinion/law-firm-culture/

5 Ways to Improve Profitability at Your Law Firm

Running a law firm offers countless opportunities to be of service to others. It is your business and it should serve you with profit beyond the cost of your labor. Here are five ways to make sure your firm serves you as you seek to serve others.

1. Eliminate your least profitable clients
Increase your profitability by identifying your most unprofitable clients and ending your engagement with them. You will likely know who these cost-intensive clients are.

2. Add more clients like your most profitable ones
Usually these are return clients who do not come with the administrative costs of marketing, sales, and on boarding. Target these kind of prospects who share these commonalities because they will likely bring the same kind of profit.

3. Calculate your utilization rate
Utilization rate is a number that shows how well you are using available resources. Try to define what value you and your team create for your clients. How many of your available hours are spent creating that value?

4. Know your revenue per FTE
A firm owner can track many numbers, but do you know your revenue per full-time employee? If you are not getting that, your costs to fulfill promises may be too high. See what labor steps you can automate or eliminate.

5. Incorporate innovation
Incorporate one innovation that supports your goal to increase profitability. A call-answering service could improve your revenue per FTE by lowering labor costs, document automation could increase your utilization rate by reducing time spent on activities that does not create value, and a quality CRM system might help you find your best clients.

Read full article HERE
https://www.lawyaw.com/articles/5-ways-to-improve-law-firm-profitability

Building a Loyal Team in Your Law Office

Every law firm wants to build a loyal, cohesive team that works together for a common purpose. Here are the following on how to build a winning team:

1. Show your appreciation
Have a fun but focused training sessions. Show your support by letting them know they can come to you for actual resolution of problems.

2. Be there for each other
Cross-collaboration in areas like marketing and staffing creates a family spirit. Focus on remaining positive and encourage each other and your clients.


3. It all starts at the interview stage
Look for people who don’t just want to collect a paycheck but want to be part of a successful business. Train them on every aspect of the business, which in turn makes them comfortable dealing with stressful situations and feel as though they have skin in the game.

Read full article here:
https://www.lawyersmutualnc.com/blog/building-a-loyal-team-in-your-law-office/

Things That Lawyer Needs to Get the Work Done

There are few rules on what you need to make your office work optimally which will help you throughout your career. Here are a few tips to help make your office a pleasant place to be.

1. A large work surface
One thing every essential office need is your actual work surface. Basically, you are looking for a surface with enough real estate for you to spread out when you are deep diving into something.

2. A good office chair
Make sure you do your work from a chair that won’t make you ache and will help keep you healthy.

3. Plenty of lighting
Without good lighting you are less able to perform, you fatigue faster and you may even experience negative mood swings or depression.

4. Sufficient storage
Have a space and equipment for everyone to get things done. Anything pertaining to the representation of a client needs a place to reside as well.

5. Something else alive
Having plants and animals (fish count!) in your office helps keep the mood more positive.

6. Something that makes you happy
Have something you know that makes you smile or an object that will make you less stressed like a drawing or a trophy.

Read full article here:
https://www.attorneyatwork.com/lawyer-essential-office-setup/

5 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Freelance Lawyer

The use of freelance lawyers is becoming more and more mainstream, particularly amidst the rise of the gig economy. But before choosing a partner, there are several important considerations to evaluate, including: expertise, cost, ethical compliance, client consent and time.

1. Finding the Best Fit
To evaluate their credentials, you should review their resumes, writing samples and references. These data points provides you the information you need to hire the most qualified freelancer for the job at hand.

2. Negotiate with Hourly or Flat Fee Billing
The benefit to negotiating flat fee engagements is that it gives the hiring attorney complete control over how much they are spending to get the work done. The work a freelance lawyer completes may be billed back to the client at a reasonable market rate.

3. Be mindful about Ethics Rules
Take a look at how these ethics rules have been adopted by your state to make sure you stay compliant. Exactly how these rules may or may not apply to a particular engagement of a freelance lawyer will depend on the scope of work being performed.

4. Incorporate Engagement Agreements to Client
If you anticipate using freelance lawyers more frequently, it would be wise to incorporate language in all engagement agreements informing clients accordingly. What disclosure is required in an engagement agreement? The rules differ a bit by jurisdiction so of course double check local rules.

5. Avoid Rush Jobs and Communication Breakdowns
If you’re up against a tight deadline, this may not be an ideal time to test out a freelance lawyer. Give yourself—and the freelancer—plenty of time to produce the best possible work product. Next, take the time to give very clear instructions and set expectations.

Read full article here:
https://www.lawtechnologytoday.org/2018/10/five-things-to-consider-before-choosing-a-freelance-lawyer/

5 Small Changes That Can Improve Your Law Firm’s Cash Flow

No matter what the size of your law firm, maintaining a positive cash flow is essential. The most successful law firms use a variety of best practices to manage their finances effectively. Here are five small changes you can make to your practice that result in a significant positive impact on your bottom line.

1. Online Payment Solutions
Consumers today used their credit cards to pay for goods and services rather than with cash or paper checks.

2. Practice Management Software
Cloud-based practice management software is essential for modern attorneys. You can save time on tasks which an app could manage for you with far greater efficiency.

3. Going Paperless
In today’s digital world, the preferred way to communicate is through texting and traditional letter writing has overtaken by email.

4. Virtual Assistants
It can be difficult to find time in your day to accomplish everything you set out to do. Time is money, the more time you can put back into your day, the more financial returns you can work toward as a result.

5. Increase Transparency
Healthy cash flow is often more of the result of a series of actions and behaviors. It’s not always getting cases and seeing them to completion, but how you communicate with your clients and the overall way you treat them.

Read full article here:
https://www.attorneyatwork.com/5-things-you-can-do-maintaining-a-positive-cash-flow//

4 Reasons To Be A Freelance Lawyer

Finishing work earlier on a typical business day is considered lucky for many lawyers, especially those who are in the corporate field.

Here are 4 reasons why you should go freelance.

1. The Rise of Virtual Meetings and Conference Calls
There are various software and website service which can help us to hold conference calls and virtual meetings anywhere in the world.

2. Flexibilities on choosing their clients
You can choose your own clients if you think that you can provide the best service to them.

3. No profits-sharing anymore
From the first email received to the last follow-up emails sent after the deal, you are the only one who can directly control and deal with the client’s fees. The payment is all yours, and you don’t have to share it with anyone.

4. Work if they wish, live as they wish
Doing legal works may help lawyers to pay the bills, but they may also want to edit a video, write a book, learn to code, give a lecture, or live by the seaside and have morning-swim every day. Going freelance can give them the flexibility to pursue other things in life.

Read full article here:
https://medium.com/law-school-life-and-beyond/4-reasons-why-even-lawyers-are-going-freelance-77467e41050a/

Six Tips for Great Legal Intake

Converting contacts into clients is one of the most important processes in your law firm. A great intake process can bring in new clients. A bad one can lose them.

1. Prioritize
Ask for name and contact details at the very start of the call to ensure you can call them back in case the call is disconnected.

2. Use active listening techniques
Focus on the exact words a person is saying and regularly repeat these back to them or paraphrase them. This will ensure that you hear what the other person is saying, not what you are expecting to hear.

3. Ask for permission
Give them an idea of how long you will need to complete the intake. If they don’t have the time right then, you can schedule a call back at a more convenient time.

4. Ask specific questions
Have a rough script to make sure you are gathering relevant information. Have a template for your questions to create a consistent structure across all your calls.

5. Get a commitment
Do not end the call on an open-ended or uncertain note. Set concrete actions that will drive the client’s matter forward.

6. Assess the impact
You should regularly assess your legal intake to identify areas for improvement. Asking for client's feedback at the close of the matter will help you identify elements of your intake that are working well and those that need work.

Read full article here:
https://www.attorneyatwork.com/6-tips-for-great-legal-intake/

5 Simple Tips for Young Lawyers on How to Make Clients Happy

If you want to keep a business client happy, don’t waste their time and try not to make working with you a chore. Here are five tips for communicating with clients as a small business owner.

1. Keep It Simple
Keep your engagement letters brief and explanations of your processes even briefer. Be clear in your language and writing. Don’t overwhelm them with details and expect them to remember everything as the matter continues. Repeat. Remind. And be kind.

2. Respect Communications Preferences
Explain what clients should expect from you and how you usually communicate. Then ask the client what they prefer. Are they comfortable using DocuSign? Dropbox? Email? Or is it oaky to call during certain hours?

3. Get Your Names Straight
Have some identifier when sending a document especially if you share it via Dropbox or Google Docs. This includes your firm name, client's name and date. It is a good idea to send a document labeled.

4. Have a Good Subject Line
Be specific. Ask your question in the subject line. Then repeat it in the body of the message. Remember the pyramid method: Important information on top, pleasant but non-critical stuff at the bottom.

5. Just Be Honest
Sometimes you may be overwhelmed by other work and unable to meet deadlines. You can keep the failures from catastrophic levels by being honest. Tell your client you need more time. Then, find another lawyer to help you or outsource other work so you can make that matter a priority.

Read full article here:
https://www.attorneyatwork.com/how-to-make-clients-happy-5-simple-workplace-tips-for-young-lawyers/

Productivity Tips for Working Smartly, Not Harder

Working smartly can mean simply looking at things differently.

You can lower your stress level and improve your work performance if you adopt the right combination of time-management practices.

Set Progress Goals
The most successful people are those who are satisfied when a job's been completed with the best possible effort. They save their need for perfection for truly important things.

Use Batching
Learn to respond to incoming messages in batches and consider checking them just two or three times a day unless, of course, keeping on top of them is integral to your job.

Integrate Technology You Already Know
Computer programs and mobile apps that can cut the time of accomplishing certain tasks in half. Take a moment to see how some of these programs or tools can speed up your professional work.

Take a Break
Stepping away from your work briefly will relax your body and rejuvenate your mind.

Don't Be Afraid to Say “No”
Remind yourself that saying no to one thing gives you the freedom to say "yes" to something else that's more important and worthy of your time and skills.


Read full article here:
https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-work-smart-9-steps-to-a-more-productive-work-day-2164686/

Ways to Improve Profitability at Your Law Firm

Your law firm is a business and should serve you with profits beyond the cost of your labor. We will share five ways to make sure your firm serves you as you seek to serve others.

1. Eliminate your least profitable clients
Increase profitability by identifying your most unprofitable clients and ending your engagement with them.

2. Add more clients like your most profitable ones
Return clients don’t come with the administrative costs of marketing and sales. They come from a particular industry or referral source. Bringing same kind of clients will most likely bring profits.

3. Calculate your utilization rate
Utilization rate is a number that defines how well you are using available resources. In a firm that bills hourly, the utilization rate of worker’s available hours is spent in billing time.

4. Incorporate innovation
Incorporate one innovation to increase profitability. A call-answering service could improve revenue by lowering labor costs and a quality CRM system might help you find your best client.

Read full article here:
https://www.lawyaw.com/articles/5-ways-to-improve-law-firm-profitability?utm_source=aaw&utm_medium=partnerlink/

5 Organizational Skills for Lawyers

When you think of critical organizational skills for lawyers, this includes time management, strategic planning, the ability to set priorities, and self-care. Here are five things hyper-productive people do every day to maximize their results and build successful law practices.

1. Stick With Daily Routines
Create a priority list of the things that must get done. Some people seem to get so much more done in their hours than others. Their secret: Consistency and routine.

2. Trade Your To-Do List for Your Calendar
Calendars help you prioritize tasks. Rather than working from a to-do list, put the tasks on a calendar, which serves as our blueprint for the day.

3. Differentiate Between Important and Urgent
In the legal field, there are unexpected emergencies to be dealt with. Developing a proactive mindset rather than a reactive mindset is an important skill for successful lawyers.

4. Work on Your Firm, Not Just in Your Firm
Successful lawyers devote time to building their business, not just working in their business. One of the best lawyer organization tips is to devote time to sharpen your business skills like attending business-focused educational program.

5. Practice Self-Care
Exercise is a key component of wellness and self-care. For most people, living through the pandemic has taken an emotional, mental and physical toll. Getting plenty of rest is key to well-being.

Read full article here:
https://www.lawyaw.com/articles/5-ways-to-improve-law-firm-profitability?utm_source=aaw&utm_medium=partnerlink/

How to Decide What Type of Law to Practice

Finding a good fit for your personality and interests is the key to happiness in a legal career.

Here are a few questions to help you determine what type of law would be a good fit for you:

How Much Do You Like to Argue?
If you want to be a litigator, be sure you like fighting. The happiest litigators love the game and thrive on winning. If you are more conciliatory, a different law job might be a better fit.

How Motivated You Are by Money?
In the legal profession, there’s often a trade-off between meaningful work and high pay. If you know that you are highly motivated by making a lot of money, you are going to be happy in a very different job than someone who is less financially motivated and cares more about doing work they consider meaningful and important.

How Much Control Do You Need Over Your Work-Life Balance?
There are ways to gain more control over your work-life balance, from starting a solo practice to something that is less drastic such as taking a job at a government agency with more predictable hours and demands.

How Much Interaction Do You Need With Other People?
Law, in general, disproportionately attracts introverted people. If you like to engage with other people, it’s important to look for legal jobs where this is the default. If you would rather be working in a team, or even just going to court regularly, you are going to have to proactively seek these experiences out.

What Do You Like to Do?
As you go through law school or your early legal career, pay careful attention to the type of day-to-day work you enjoy. Make sure to have passion and you will be much happier as an attorney.

Read full article here:
https://www.thebalancecareers.com/how-to-decide-what-type-of-law-to-practice-2164570/

How to Be an Expert in Your Legal Specialty

Promoting your expertise can be one of the most effective ways to market yourself as a lawyer, with the added benefit of being affordable too.

The following are the top four ways to establish yourself as the recognized authority in your legal specialty.

Firm Website
Internet is one place where a solo practitioner or small law practice can compete on equal footing with the big law firms. Smart lawyers are taking advantage of this opportunity to promote themselves and their knowledge to the public.

Publish
Have an article published or consider writing a book on your area of law practice. If you can't find anyone who will publish your articles or books, you can always publish the material on your own website.

Conduct Seminars
In some areas of law practice, it is common for attorneys to offer seminars to the public to educate them about certain areas of law. Volunteering to speak on a topic you know well is a good speaking opportunity. You can also organize a seminar of your own and invite other lawyers to attend.

News Media
Learn the skill of speaking in "sound bites" because this is how to provide reporters and media with what they need for writing an article or story.

Read full article here:
https://www.thebalancesmb.com/steps-to-becoming-legal-specialty-expert-2151297/

Powerful Digital Marketing Tips Lawyers Can Use Today

The virtual world is growing at an alarming rate, and businesses have adapted to the trend. There is also a significant shift in the way marketing is carried out, primarily online.

Traditional marketing is still relevant when you use it effectively. Therefore, you should apply both techniques, the old and the new, to successfully market your law firm and reach out to all potential clients. Here are some powerful digital marketing tips lawyers can use today.

1. Start a Blog
Creating a website is an investment of time and an excellent avenue for marketing law firms. Hire an experienced professional to carry out the tasks and ensure that your content appears at the top of Google search results.

2. Update Your Website
It is essential to update your website if it is outdated and always include the vital details about your service with contacts that web visitors can use to reach you.

3. Join an Online Forum
Create a profile that will enable you to be placed with people that carry out similar practices, especially if you are a solo practitioner. Your fellow attorneys can help you greatly to connect with your potential clients.

4. Use Social Media
Social media can reach out to thousands of users who might be interested in your service. You can quickly get feedback from your followers and know what to implement or stop to move forward effectively as a brand.

5. Create SEO Driven Content
Utilizing an SEO strategy is the best way to make your website get noticed by users. To increase your visibility, start with identifying keywords and phrases relevant to your service.

Read full article here:
https://marketbusinessnews.com/7-powerful-digital-marketing-tips-lawyers-can-use-today/278739/

4 Simple Tips for Better Law Firm Communication

Remote work, Zoom hearings, and health and safety concerns are essential for firms these days. Instead of seeing this as an obstacle, why not use this opportunity to strengthen your team’s communication.

Following are 4 tips for better law firm communication:

Tip #1: Have written guidelines.
A communication plan with your team which establishes guidelines, hours of availability, and meeting schedules weeds out many of the potential pitfalls of remote communication. These guidelines ought to be accessible through a centralized document that is sent out to all team members.

Tip #2: Use collaboration tools.
Collaboration software and project management platforms are the perfect ways to manage your team, host written communication and schedule or host video conference calls (ex: Slack, Trello, Clio, etc.).

Tip #3: Hold meetings virtually or in person weekly.
Virtual meetings not only give you and your team the opportunity to freely discuss issues and ideas in an open format, but you get the added benefits of reading facial expressions and body language.

Tip #4: It’s not all about work.
It is important to try to make your team communications about something other than work. Even if it’s just a check-in to see how everyone is holding up, showing your employees or teammates that you care about them outside of just the confines of work is very comforting.

Read full article here:
https://www.lawyersmutualnc.com/blog/4-simple-steps-for-better-law-firm-communication

4 Ways to Bring Out the Best in Your Team

You might think the job of a leader is to teach, train and guide team members to be better, but actually it is to simply let them be themselves.

A law practice that builds on current strengths and brings out the best in everyone in the office rather than trying to mold them into something they are not is destined for great things.

Here are 4 Ways to Empower Team Members to be Themselves:

1. Practice top-down humility.
Allow a time for asking team members about their families and personal wellbeing. This builds empathy, trust, and loyalty that will more than compensate for five minutes diverted from your agenda.

2. Encourage debate and feedback.
When we cling to preconceived notions instead of welcoming new even if conflicting information, we limit the marketplace of ideas that fuels innovation, progress, and growth.

3. Lighten up.
While it is important for teams to operate professionally and with the utmost respect for one another, we could all afford to loosen up a little by welcoming a sense of humor about shared faults and quirks.

4. Feed an ownership mentality.
Companies that foster an ownership culture of shared accountability may have even greater success building strong bonds between team members. When we are all working towards the same objective, we are likely to be more open-minded about the best path to getting there.

Read full article here:
https://www.lawyersmutualnc.com/blog/4-ways-to-bring-out-the-best-in-your-team-2/

How to Determine Going Solo Practice

If you're weighing between solo practice and big law, it is very important to consider the pros and cons.
The following might help you make the best decision for your legal career.

Lower Barriers
Small or solo firms have much lower overhead expenses since there’s no need for things like a complex phone system or a large office with high rent.

Tech-Savvy Firms
Solo, big or small firms who take advantage of technology now, will find things like lead generation, client acquisition, and marketing to be more seamless and bountiful.

Compensation
Many lawyers chose to stay with large firms because of high compensation. However, those that have gone solo can also make a sizable salary by charging flat rates.

Work/Life Balance
Smaller firms also put in more time, since the firm may not have the support staff to handle administrative burden. Lawyers should consider the work/life balance depending on the workload they expected to take on.

Seed Money and Coverage
Before going solo, lawyers should be sure that they have enough seed money to cover start-up costs and the initial dry months.

Long-Term Financial Goals
Smaller firms tend to be more focused on the care aspect of serving clients. However, if a lawyer has a large financial goal in mind before they plan to retire, working at a large firm may provide higher compensation.

Autonomy
When working for a small firm or solo, a lawyer has more autonomy over the cases they take on, the clients they represent, and the hours they keep.

Read full article here:
hhttps://www.natlawreview.com/article/solo-practice-or-big-law-how-to-determine-going-solo

A Guide to Best Practice Areas for Solo Attorneys

When you’re building a new solo practice, choosing the best legal areas to focus on can be overwhelming. But with the right planning, research, and tools, you can make more strategic decisions to set yourself up for success.

Here’s what to consider when choosing a practice area as a solo attorney:

1. Think about what’s important to you
Take time to consider your strengths, temperament, and interests. This can narrow the field to the areas that are best suited to you. Choosing a legal niche that you care about lets you stand out from competitors which can translate into more business and higher rates for your solo practice.

2. Consider if it is the right time to start a solo practice
As eager as you might be to start a solo practice, it is important to take a hard look and decide- if now is the right time to do it. Consider the economy, your family situation, and your personal financials before you take the leap.

3. Determine the tools you need to start on the right foot
Leveraging tech like legal practice management software can improve your efficiency, saving you time and money that you’ll need for your solo operation.

4. Be sure to plan, plan, plan
No matter which legal practice areas are the best fit for you, start with a plan. While it certainly won’t hurt, you don’t necessarily need a lot or any money to start your solo practice but, you do need a realistic strategy.

Read full article here:
https://www.clio.com/blog/best-practice-areas-solo-attorneys/

Lawyer stress? Here is how to manage.

Lawyers are high achievers by necessity. To succeed in the competitive, pressure-filled legal industry, successful attorneys have exceptional work ethics and perseverance. But that heightened capacity, unfortunately, also contributes to an increased level of stress.

Here are 7 strategies to mitigate lawyer stress:

Go to therapy - Talking to someone like a trusted counselor or therapist that you feel comfortable with can be a powerful step for you to proactively improve your mental wellness.

Exercise - Regular exercise is good to keep your body healthy. Exercise also helps you relax and combat stress by stimulating endorphins and reducing levels of stress hormones.

Know your limits and draw boundaries - To help manage stress, it is important to set and express your workload limits. Also set clear expectations with your clients about how much of your time is available to them.

Keep up your hobbies - To help counter stress, immerse yourself in something you find pleasurable or challenging.

Make time for loved ones - Connecting with your loved ones can be a wonderful way to manage stress.
A simple video-call catch-up with a family member, playing a game with your kids, or watching a movie on the couch with your spouse can be an effective way to relax and recharge.

Practice mindfulness - You can use technology to adjust to a mindfulness practice easier. Meditation apps can guide you through a mindfulness practice when you feel disconnected or zoned out.

Set goals - Setting and working towards goals can give you a stronger feeling of control and will turn your attention to the bigger picture in your life and career.


Read full article here:
https://www.clio.com/blog/lawyer-stress/

Five Steps to Increase Esprit de Corps in Your Law Firm

Esprit de corps is the heart of a healthy law firm. Large or small, almost every law firm wants to improve its esprit de corps. Here are five simple steps to get started generating esprit de corps in your firm.

1. Assess the current state of morale
Everyone must trust that firm wide information is being gathered and their input is considered in the decisions being made.

2. Communicate
Include your people on firm's important news and regular topics such as calendar, policies and benefits, marketing, announcements and acknowledgments.

3. Tell your story
A critical aspect of esprit de corps is ensuring that everyone understands where your firm is at today and where it is heading in the future.

4. Have fun together outside of work
You are more likely to develop collegiality when you get to know one another outside of work in group lunches or outings.

5. Share your personal appreciation
A simple note can go a long way. Reach out and let them know that the work they are putting in has not gone unnoticed.

Read full article here: https://www.attorneyatwork.com/5-steps-to-increase-esprit-de-corps-in-your-law-firm/

Want to grow your law practice? Here are 5 marketing tactics.

As a solo practitioner, it is essential to know exactly how to grow your law firm as you are looking to expand to a larger practice. Here are five key marketing tactics that are sure to help:

Set deadlines
Setting realistic and timely deadlines will set you up for success in following your law firm marketing plan.

Creating and deploying content
Providing relevant and helpful content to clients is one of the best ways to establish your firm. Publishing this content on blogs and your website on a consistent basis will establish your firm as a leader on the subject, and potential clients will trust your expertise.

Creating an ideal client persona
In order to generate the right leads for your law firm, it is important to determine the kind of ideal client you want your law firm to target. You can better shape your content and marketing efforts to be relevant to your ideal persona’s wants, needs, and motivations.

Analyzing and reporting
By establishing a few key indicator to monitor, you will be able to effectively track how well your marketing efforts are actually doing in accordance with expectation.

Outsourcing
Rather than hiring one expensive in-house marketing professional, by outsourcing you can acquire a whole team of experts to grow your firm on your behalf. Outsourcing is hands down the most cost effective way to start implementing the marketing plans you have for your firm.

Read full article here:
https://www.natlawreview.co-m/article/5-tactics-to-grow-your-solo-law-practice

Law firm's advantages to outsource legal work

The legal industry is experiencing a significant shift in the way law firms operate and deliver legal services to clients, where law firms outsource the work of attorneys and support staff to external vendors, including freelance service providers.

Here are the top four (4) reasons why law firms should begin outsourcing.

1. Cost Savings
This is the most significant advantage of outsourcing legal work. Law firms can significantly reduce overhead expenses because of the wage differential between full-time staff and freelance attorneys. The benefits for law firms are two-fold: significant reduction in overhead expenses and retaining a high profit margin for the outsourced work.

2. Access to External Talent
Outsourcing work doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the quality of your work product. It allows firms that lack adequate support in a certain area to access talented freelancers to fill in those gaps.

3. More Efficiency
Aside from using freelance support to outsource individual tasks, law firms can also utilize freelance attorneys to collaborate on larger projects, as well. With a network of freelance attorneys at your disposal, law firms can divide and conquer to complete large projects in a shorter timeframe.

4. Flexibility
Having access to on-demand freelance support gives firms the flexibility to absorb larger workloads at a moment’s notice, which is a huge advantage for those smaller firms because they can adapt to any situation without taking on the expense of more staff, or even taking on another firm to co-counsel due to a lack of resources.

Read full article here:
https://thefreelancefirm.com/top-advantages-for-law-firms-outsourcing-legal-work/

Ethics in Time of Pandemic

The pandemic has completely disrupted the practice of law, the ethical obligations you owe your clients including the duty to maintain communication and handle their cases promptly remain the same.

Three (3) professional duties that have only increased in significance due to the pandemic

Diligence- Under the present circumstances, lawyers should weigh public health considerations when exercising their professional judgment to determine the scope of services the lawyer is comfortable offering to clients and requiring of staff. Lawyers should review the updated information from the Judicial Branch and continue to pursue a client’s case to the extent reasonably possible under these unique circumstances.

Communication- lawyers should keep their clients ‘reasonably informed’ about the status of their matter. The duty to communicate during the COVID-19 crisis also encompasses the lawyer’s responsibility to explain to clients how current events may affect their case. Clients need to be advised of any changes to office hours, court closings, and scheduled court appearances. Communicating expectations or delays during these difficult times helps ensure all involved are on the same page, and potentially prevents frustration or future disputes over deadlines.

Confidentiality- Lawyers working remotely continue to have the duty to protect confidential client information. If a lawyer is going to utilize technology to work remotely, the lawyer needs to have a basic understanding of the technology used to ensure that the lawyer complies with his or her professional obligations.

Read full article here:
https://www.lawyersmutualnc.com/blog/ethics-in-time-of-pandemic

Think outside the box with overflow work

Many companies and law firms solve overflow work needs through outsourcing. To do this successfully, quality, efficiency and cost are essential.

Overflow work is an opportunity for law firms to think outside the box by hiring recent law graduates, lawyers pivoting from one law practice to another, and freelance attorneys.

Even though some of them are on midlevel legal talent, we must realize that overflow legal work is not rocket science. Most new attorneys are hard-working, bright and dedicated. Utilizing this pool of candidates creates valuable management opportunities for law firms, boosts morale and lead to incredible cost savings.

In this day and age, we cannot expect to truly diversify the legal practice by doing the “same old thing” over and over again. Many of the attorneys may lack the “perfect” experience, but have plenty of enthusiasm and drive to grow their own solo practice.

Many law firms have shared that they regularly hire hard-working freelance attorneys. These attorneys often work remotely and appreciate flexibility. This type of service arrangement ultimately creates a high quality, reasonably-priced legal alternative for law firms staffing.


Read the full article here:
https://abovethelaw.com/2017/08/got-overflow-legal-work-think-outside-the-box/

Solutions to Law firm's challenges

Law firms have plenty of tasks to handle, and this makes their work really challenging.
So here are the possible solutions to the challenges they face while managing a law firm.

1. Time management- Plan your day in advance. Use software that will help you keep track of your documents and schedules.

2. Strong online presence- Being able to communicate with their audience will most likely generate new clients.

3. Attract quality clients- A great website lets your target audience evaluate you based on reviews, videos and articles that educate the public.

4. Excellent marketing strategy- Be the last attorney people have talked to or have a high-ranking website in order to get clients.

5. Great management skills- Act as both lawyer and business owner. Compartmentalize time as a manager from your time as a lawyer.

6. Client satisfaction- Maintaining a steady stream of clients, and clients who hire a law firm that provides quality customer service can make the firm successful.

7. Growth and business development- The primary concern of any business, including law firms, is to maintain an ever-increasing streams of clients and revenue in order to meet our operating costs and liabilities.

8. Finding and hiring a quality team- An organizational culture that takes into account the needs of its employees and cares about their experience in the organization makes a strong foundation for long-term employee engagement and retention.

9. Tracking previous clients- A good consistent data will make the most sense in spending the marketing budget. Referral networks and marketing efforts also works best.

10. Focusing on important areas and choosing clients wisely- narrow down your practice areas and focus only on a few areas of law. Retain only those clients who can see the real future with the company or law firm.

11. Ability to retain talented staff- aim at your staff wellbeing. Give flexible work hours, handsome overtime pays, and anything that will give the team fulfilling careers.

Read full article here:
https://www.cogneesol.com/blog/top-law-firm-challenges-with-possible-solutions/

5 Benefits of Launching a Law Firm Website

Setting up a law firm website may seem daunting since it involves web design, search engine optimization and content creation skills that are not taught in law school. Figuring out who to hire and how much it will cost, takes time and adds stress as well.

Here are five reasons why you need a law firm website:

To Boost Your Credibility
A potential client will likely turn to the web to learn more about you before they call your office. A law firm website allows you to showcase who you are and what you can do for them. It assures clients that you are a serious and credible person who can see them through their legal issues.

To Control Your Content
A law firm website gives you a platform to tell your law firm’s story. It’s an opportunity to share what services you offer and let clients get to know you better.

To Build Your Brand
Law firms use branding to define how they are perceived and what makes them unique. The branding and web design choices made when launching your law firm website will carry throughout your marketing efforts and help your firm stand out.

To Capture Ideal Clients
Your law firm’s website allows you to appeal directly to those audiences by creating content that answers common questions. Providing helpful content for your target audience also builds trust.

To Add Features That Boost Marketing and Help Automate Your Practice
One of the best things about having a law firm website is the ability to keep adding content and features as you need them. Aside from lawyer biographies and practice areas, your website can do much more by providing helpful news and other resources, call-tracking, chatbots or provide legal service online.

Read full article here: https://www.attorneyatwork.com/launching-a-law-firm-website/
https://www.attorneyatwork.com/launching-a-law-firm-website

The Advantages of Freelance Legal Work

Freelance work offers tremendous advantages and can represent an attractive alternative to a traditional job. Below are the advantages of freelance legal work.

1. Flexibility of hours
Working from home or from a remote workplace as a freelancer allows you to dictate your own hours and work at times most convenient to you.

2. Building an Asset
Owning and operating a successful freelance business allows you to create an asset that may be saleable down the road. Your efforts may be rewarded through the present income you generate.

3. Workload Control
As a freelance worker, you can turn away work during busy times or accept more work during lean times.

4. Autonomy
Freelancers are highly autonomous. As business owners, they generally answer to no one (other than their clients) and operate on their own terms, at their own hours, and at the rates they establish.

5. Quality of work
New law school grads in large law firms often perform monotonous tasks such as document review, while a freelance attorney may gain more challenging assignments such as court appearances.

6. Work-life balance
Freelancers often have a better work-life balance. You can spend more time with your children or the dog and steal moments to relax and do the things you love.

7. Diversification
In today's shrinking legal job market, job loss is not uncommon. However, since most freelancers work for multiple clients, losing one client does not mean unemployment.

Read full article here:
https://www.thebalancecareers.com/advantages-of-freelance-work-2164313/

Becoming A Freelance Attorney

In the past, the gig economy was called secondments- a free market system in which organizations contract with independent workers for temporary and often short-term positions.

As technology continues to improve, the internet, cloud-based software, video conferencing and other technology, freelance attorneys can now work where and when they choose.

Freelance attorneys are valuable additions to law firms. They can offer unique perspectives and suggest alternate legal points or theories, and they can make court appearances and attend depositions. It also has its benefits allowing you to choose your projects and associates.

If you need to add a specialty, find a continuing legal education course to get you up to speed. Stay organized with software that can help you with administrative tasks.

As freelancer attorney, most of your business will come from other lawyers. Send announcements for your new business to your network of colleagues, be active in the local bar association, create a website, and start and maintain a blog.

If you are ready with the responsibility and liability, then maybe this is the time for you to join the gig economy and become a freelancer!

Read full article here:
https://connect.michbar.org/blogs/roberta-m-gubbins/2019/05/03/is-freelance-lawyering-for-you

Five Ways to Combat Apathy and Feel Good Again

During this pandemic, a lot of people are struggling with apathy. We also cannot find motivation to do some of the things we “need” to do, or are simply tasked with doing. Here are five ways to increase your energy and enthusiasm so that apathy turns to interest again.

1. Get Some Sleep
When you don’t get sufficient sleep, it can chip away at your happiness and mental health, negatively affecting your energy, motivation and emotions.

2. Move Your Body
Rather than trying to persuade yourself to work out, think instead about ways to move your body, whether it is walking, dancing, playing tag with your kids, or practicing yoga, will increase your sense of well-being. This, in turn, will increase your energy, improve your sleep, relax your body and decrease apathy.

3. Connect With Others
Start with people who know you well so you don’t feel the pressure to be “on” or “happy.” You can also connect with others through volunteer opportunities, which are yet other ways to focus on a common interest in order to connect.

4. Avoid Doom and Gloom
Driving further to have some solitude in the car or going for an extended walk will help you mitigate your “doom and gloom.”

5. Try Something New
Sometimes “spicing things up a bit” is a good way to break away from apathy. Many online platforms offer a variety of courses on topics from art, music, dancing, and wine tasting, to writing, business, and academic subjects. You can also find free live classes on social media platforms, and many recorded programs and classes.

Read full article here:
https://www.attorneyatwork.com/how-to-combat-apathy/

Benefits of being a Solo Practitioner

Becoming a solo practitioner comes with some unique perks. They are considered to be private lawyers who work for them self and handle almost all of the responsibilities required for their legal services.

If you’re considering your career path in law, here are 7 benefits of being a solo practitioner.

1. Complete Control
You decide which cases you take on and which ones you don't. Every decision you make will have a direct impact on your legal services as a business.

2. Diverse Clients
You can gain experience discovering which cases and legal situations you are more interested in and can later tailor your legal services to areas you are more interested and dedicated.

3. Cost Effective
Solo practitioners can operate out of a small office and may have few to no staff at all. You can use software programs specifically for lawyer to manage your taxes and ensure invoices.

4. Benefits for Clients
By reducing the overhead costs, solo practitioners can cut the total costs of their legal fees. If you’re able to cut your operating cost while providing legal services at a competitive price, you may be able to take on more clients.

5. Work Environment
Working from a place that suits your style and quality of service can set a strong first impression with your clients.

6. Custom Work Hours
You can choose how much or how little you want to work. Being a solo practitioner allows more time for vacationing, attending conference and time for home.

7. Higher ROI
As a solo practitioner, the profitability of your legal practice will be based on your ability to find clients and handle their legal needs successfully.

Read full article here:
https://amazelaw.com/top-7-benefits-solo-practitioner/

How You Can Generate Clients Through Referrals

Legal services is one of the most competitive business to market and advertise. While there are many channels and methods to acquire new legal clients, referrals can be a prime source of new matters for your practice.

Here are the fundamentals for sustainable referral growth:

Credibility and Authority
Credibility and authority are going to be paramount to your long term success. As an attorney, you need to develop an appreciation for being innovative and unparalleled in your approach to protecting and solving your clients’ problems.

Customer Service
Communicate with your clients every step of the way. This can create a significant advantage for your practice. Your customer service and reputation for it must match or exceed that of other attorneys in your market.

Predictability and Consistency
Developing systems, schedules, and processes will help in terms of serving clients, making marketing decisions and more. Also, have a schedule to follow and systematize your workflow.

read full article here:
https://www.zahavianlegalmarketing.com/law-firm-attorney-client-referrals/