Many people dream of graduating from law school and landing a lucrative gig at an elite big law firm. If you’ve been there and are tired of being bogged down by billable hours, then starting a law firm is probably next on your career bucket list.
Accomplishing that goal means that you need to know how to start a law firm. Thankfully, we’ve compiled a quick guide that’ll help you get started. Read on to learn how to create your dream law practice!
In this article
1. Organization Is Critical
Unlike at a bigger law firm, you won’t have a legal secretary to help you stay on top of all of the administrative tasks that come with starting and running your firm. The first thing you need to do is to determine everything you need to get your firm off the ground, including permits, incorporation, and a business plan.
When you’re creating your business plan, these tab dividers can help you keep all the different parts of the plan organized. The better your organization, the easier it’ll be to handle the setup process with minimal stress.
2. Narrow Down Your Practice Areas
A lot of smaller law firms cater to many other practice locations. This is fine if you want to be a generalist. If you want to be known as the best in your practice area, then it’s best to narrow down the practice areas until you can hire other attorneys in other practice areas. With time and experience, you can grow your practice areas, but it’s best to start small.
3. Set Up Your Space
Unlike many small businesses, most law firms require the use of brick-and-mortar office space. That’s because the legal profession is not quite as technologically advanced as other fields. Depending on the courts you use, you might still have to print out a complaint or motion, and your clients will probably expect to come to see you in person.
Look into renting a small office space that suits your needs. Then gather furniture, computers, printers, and anything else you’ll need to operate properly.
4. Marketing, Marketing, Marketing
You might have been a rising star at your old law firm, but that doesn’t mean that your clients will find you when you leave. That’s why it’s so important to put some money and time aside to market your new firm. Create a social media presence, and set up local ads.
Anything you can do to get your name out there will help you get clients.
Learning How to Start a Law Firm Is the First Step Toward Freedom!
If you’re tired of answering the out-of-touch partner at your law firm, then it’s high time that you learned how to start a law firm and set out to make your mark. With a little hard work and organization, you’ll become your own boss and have the opportunity to work when and where you want. Just don’t forget to market your law firm!
Running your own law firm is not an easy task. You’re bound to have questions along the way. Be sure to check out the rest of our blog for tons of great resources to help you find success!
