The Role of Law Firm Treasurer
April 30, 2008
Recently, we had the opportunity to spend time with two executives, Jeff Hohner, Treasurer for Kirkland & Ellis, LLP and Rick Nietsch, Treasurer of White & Case LLP. These two men are at the forefront of managing the increasingly complex and global fiscal requirements of today's leading law firms.
Bringing Lateral Attorneys on Board: A Blueprint for Success
April 29, 2008
Part One of this article discussed the importance of personal ownership of the lateral integration process and the importance of a formal business plan for lateral moves. This second installment addresses the more specific elements of the business plan and other 'how's' and 'how not's' in the lateral integration process.
<b><i>Product Review:</b></i> QuickBooks 2008 For Your Law Firm
April 29, 2008
In the practice of law ' which we normally don't think of as a business ' it's really no different. We have motions to present, clients to call, and a number of other things to do without having to worry about bookkeeping or our clients checks and trust accounts. With the 2008 versions of QuickBooks, Intuit is again serving the profession with small business financial software that includes a number of new and enhanced features, all with a focus on making the most critical jobs for our law office ' and our accountants ' quicker, easier and more helpful.
Even Non-Union Employees Have Rights Under the NLRA
April 28, 2008
Even in today's increasingly non-union workplace, management must not ignore laws enacted primarily to protect unions. To do so could have a serious impact on non-union environments. All employers should exercise caution before taking disciplinary or other adverse action against employees for conduct that could be perceived as group activity. Here's why.
Spring-Loading Options
April 25, 2008
Delaware courts are beginning to analyze claims concerning the controversial practice of spring-loading options. Spring-loading is the granting of options just prior to the release of favorable company information (in the company's possession at the time of the grant). The options are granted at a market price on the day of the grant. They are said to be 'spring-loaded' because upon release of the favorable news, the stock price is expected to rise and the options would then become 'in-the-money.'
Rediscovering Chapter 9
April 25, 2008
Even though Chapter 9 of the Bankruptcy Code has been in effect for over 30 years, fewer than 100 cases have been filed during that time. Municipal bankruptcy cases ' or, more accurately, proceedings involving the adjustment of a municipality's debts ' are a rarity, compared with reorganization cases under Chapter 11.
Educating Marketing Professionals on Key Financial Metrics and Measurements
March 28, 2008
Today, marketing and business development professionals need to understand law firm finance and economics. Likewise, law firm chief financial officers need a better understanding and appreciation of marketing strategies. The success of your firm will depend on how well these two disciplines work together.
Wining and Dining Foreign Officials: What's OK and What's a Crime
March 27, 2008
In December 2007, Lucent Technologies Inc. secured a non-prosecution agreement from the Department of Justice and settled an enforcement action with the SEC for conduct related to travel and entertainment expenses incurred on behalf of Chinese government officials and for the manner in which these expenses were booked. The Lucent settlement adds to a number of existing guideposts regarding permissible interactions with foreign officials under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. This article examines the Lucent settlement, prior FCPA enforcement activity related to travel and lodging, and offers some practical advice for compliance counsel.
With Succession Planning, Inertia Is Not an Option
March 27, 2008
Turning over the reins of a law firm is an art form. A well-staged plan that allows for a seamless transition from current leaders to the next generation — in both client relationships and management responsibilities — is crucial to the health and longevity of your partnership.
