Law Firm Management

Law firms commonly rely on contract attorneys to assist with a large project for a single matter or collective overflow from multiple matters. While using contract attorneys to address staffing needs is common and routine, it is not a risk-free arrangement. Here are some tips to help law firms minimize potential risks when working with contract attorneys.

In 2023, Am Law 100 firms saw their lowest realization rates in five years. Despite the lower realization, the industry appears to have had a better financial year in 2023 compared with 2022. So how much do realization rates actually matter?

For a long time, the formula for law firm leverage was simple: grow the base of the pyramid by hiring more associates, keep them busy, and profit. But in recent years, that arithmetic is looking more like calculus as expanding nonequity partner tiers increasingly contribute to the law firm leverage equation.

While growing by acquiring lateral partners and practice groups can be lucrative, it carries many risks. Lateral candidates' projections of the revenue they will bring to a new firm can prove inaccurate, or a particular candidate may simply be a bad fit culturally.

Generation X lawyers stand poised to wield considerable influence. Often the unsung heroes in discussions about generational dynamics, Gen X professionals bring a wealth of strengths to law firm leadership. Their pragmatic outlook, honed by navigating shifts in technology and societal changes, positions them as adaptable leaders.

Increasingly, law firms rely upon acquiring lateral partners and practice groups to grow revenue more quickly than they can by increasing output with existing talent. With this kind of money at stake, a prudent firm is constantly on the lookout for ways to hedge against the risks of acquiring laterals. Implementing an effective retirement succession program is one of them.

It's time for attorneys to return to the office on a five day a week schedule. There is significant evidence that shows remote learning is not as effective as in-person instruction.

It's time for attorneys to return to the office on a five day a week schedule. There is significant evidence that shows remote learning is not as effective as in-person instruction.