Starting a law firm immediately after law school (and passing the bar) is no light endeavor. Starting any business is a challenge. However, owning and running a law firm requires a business-oriented mind and an understanding of how to practice law. These unique mindsets don’t always overlap. I started a law firm immediately after passing the bar. A few months later, my wife, an attorney as well, quit her job at big law and joined me. Here are some of my suggestions if you are considering hanging a shingle after you pass the bar.
Build a network
This is an obvious suggestion that is harped throughout law school. However, I’ve found that solo practitioners seem to be very open about advice and support to fellow entrepreneurs, especially new attorneys willing to take the leap. During law school, I contacted a solo practitioner that practices the law I was (and am) interested in. I shadowed that attorney for a summer during law school. He has given me an unbelievable amount of (free!) advice and he has referred clients to me. That’s one of several attorneys I frequently contact for help and/or advice. These attorneys are almost always willing to co-counsel when you’re uncertain about how to proceed in a matter. Do a Google search, find a solo practitioner, and send them an email. You’ll be happy you did.
Be careful with marketing
If you’re starting a solo practice, chances are that you don’t have a lot of money to burn for marketing purposes. I have done very little marketing for my small law firm. The best form of marketing will always be free marketing through word of mouth. This means doing a good job for clients – keeping them in the loop, fair billing, and answering questions quickly and to the best of your ability. Developing a network within the legal industry will create leads, even from attorneys in your field. Make sure you’re part of the local bar associations. Usually, there is a discount for newer attorneys. Contact the courts where you will be practicing and ask to be on the appointment list. They will almost always be happy to add you and they will be very helpful when they give you a case. Lastly, keep people in the loop about your practice. Your family and friends will be happy to see your growth and they’ll do anything they can to help you out.
Listen to your instincts
Don’t ever take on a case/matter that you’re uncomfortable with – for whatever reason. It doesn’t matter if you need the money, if the client is your mom, or if another attorney told you to do it. Don’t do it. You’ll be stressed beyond belief, you’ll do a poor job, and you’ll do a disservice to your client. Stick to your wheelhouse and if something doesn’t feel right, consult a reliable opinion on how to proceed.
Be ready to grind
Every job is a grind to some extent. Opening a solo practice out of school means an extremely steep learning curve every day. Most law school graduates only have to worry about hitting billable hours once they land their first job, which is nerve-racking enough. But you need to hit those hours and manage the business. When you decide to take the leap, you need to fully accept the daily discomfort. This may seem like silly advice, but a proper mentality can take a person a long way. From the onset, if you can accept being constantly corrected and questioned by magistrates, judges, clerks, opposing counsel, clients, and everyone in between, you’ll be in much better shape. Swallow your pride and get tough. Good luck!
If you have questions, please feel free to send an email at cdemarest@demarestlawllc.com. I’ll do my best to help any way I can.
MoneyManeuvering 