Before Saying 'Yes' to a Merger
February 26, 2013
Despite the obvious opportunities, the integration of small groups of attorneys into a larger firm does not always succeed. This is precisely why "due diligence" should be the mantra of both parties in anticipation of any acquisition/merger.
Pressure Points: How to Move Forward Successfully with Technology Leasing
February 26, 2013
With the possibility of limited capital expenditures, financing technological advances will certainly be a way to stay within budget constraints and allow firms to continue investing in the latest and greatest technological trends. Leasing is one financing option that a firm can use to cut the out of pocket costs for technology upgrades and still be able to implement new projects by providing a monthly expense versus a total cost purchase.
Unequal Severance Benefits
February 26, 2013
In an interesting published decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit has held that an offer of less favorable severance benefits to a female may constitute sex discrimination in violation of Title VII.
Movers & Shakers
February 25, 2013
Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, LLP recently welcomed John Salza as a principal in charge of tax accounting methods. In this role, Salza lends his expertise to tax engagements across Baker Tilly's industry practices.
Profiting from the Learning Curve
February 25, 2013
A recent study published by Altman Weil listed the ways in which chief legal officers would like to see their outside counsel embrace service improvements and innovation. The top four responses were greater cost reduction, non-hourly pricing, more efficient project management and improved budget forecasting. To anyone paying even cursory attention to the legal marketplace in the last half decade, these should not come as a surprise.
Pricing Legal Services
January 31, 2013
Beyond the "value-added" components of their efforts, expectations have risen in law firms for the marketing team to contribute directly to top-line growth. While their roles typically fall short of direct selling to new clients, in recent years marketing executives have been integrally involved in ongoing account management, prospecting, and expansion. They are juxtaposed with the rainmakers — practically joined at the hip in supporting partners as they embark into the legal market battlefield.
Preparing for Reverse Auctions
January 31, 2013
Rather than companies sending out RFPs to a number of law firms, they are now using a "reverse auction" to request quotes from law firms they trust. Here's how it works.
