LJN Newsletters

Implicit in all the stories about layoffs or hourly versus value billing, the fundamental question is whether the severity of the economic downturn will permanently change what law firms look like and how they operate. Can they ever again support the notorious salary structures and leverage strategies of the past?

Smart lawyers turn their bios into a marketing magnet that generates leads, as opposed to a mere resume or a CV, which recites only your education and experience. The trick is to turn a feature of yourself into a benefit to the client.

Proven shortcuts that will help you channel the flood of incessant information coming your way.

The marketing function is expanding within law firms. Despite of, or perhaps because of, the legal industry's economic woes of late, the expectations around marketing ' from increased business development to enhanced practice support ' has never been greater. Do you need a J.D. to have a career in marketing?

The current economic situation is forcing firms to think of new ways to market themselves, which likely will become the new norm, long after the downturn is history.

In this climate of uncertainty, the impetus will be on associates to self-motivate, focus on learning the craft and think deeply about what they really want from their careers. But what are those of us committed to developing the careers of associates to do?

In Part One of this article, the authors dealt with the primary risks of a "downsizing" event. Part Two herein discusses implementing a methodical plan for a downsizing event, alternatives to downsizing, and going forward with compassion.

The ABA's Model Rules of Professional Conduct, adopted in many jurisdictions, now allow attorney advertisements but restrict "misleading" communications. Significantly, such misleading communications may include unsubstantiated comparisons to other lawyers.