The 14 Questions Every Law firm Partner Should be Asking

We all know today’s legal market has unique challenges.  With the uncertainly still looming over the financial markets, many law firms have been forced to lay off attorneys due to the substantial drop in transactional work.  Simultaneously, the overwhelming losses in the stock market have nurtured an abundance of litigation cases, which will likely steer Congress to establish more strict regulations for the financial industry. 

So…in light of this not so thrilling forecast, how do you stay nimble and place yourself in a job to exact the most benefit from the current market situation?  How do you solidify your client relationships to keep ‘em enamored with you?  Answer: Do some soul-searching and ask yourself these thought-provoking questions.  If you answer them honestly, they will help you determine if you should weather the storm with your current firm start to look for new digs.

1.     Are you satisfied with your firm’s reputation in the legal and business communities?

2.     Is your firm well managed?

3.     Are you optimistic when it comes to the financial health of your firm?  Do you believe management is making the right decisions regarding the firm’s future?

4.     Does your firm provide the platform you require for building your practice?  Does your practice coincide with the strategic vision of the firm?

5.     Is the firm committed to marketing?  Does the firm provide you with the resources you have to successfully market your practice?

6.     Are firm billing rates compatible with your specialty and your clients?

7.     Do you have the opportunity to share in important departmental and firm decisions?  If you desire to play a leadership role in the firm, is it a possibility? 

8.     Do you feel you’re compensated fairly when compared with your peers at your current firm and with these at similar firms?

9.     Is your firm a nice cultural fit?  Do your peers share your views of work/life balance and superior client service and reputable character?

10. Do the firm’s physical surroundings provide an atmosphere where you can be productive?

11. Do you feel respected and valued by your peers?  Do you respect and value your colleagues’ legal work?  Are you comfortable referring your clients’ matters to Them?

12. Do you receive adequate support from associates, paralegals and administrative staff in order to get work done in a timely fashion?

13. Is the firm committed to pro bono work and community service in a way that coincides with your values and beliefs?

14. Is law office technology at a level that fully supports your practice?  As office technology is updated, does your firm provide adequate assistance and training? 

Nancy Grimes has over twenty years’ experience serving the legal industry.  Clients include international, national, regional, local and independent law firms and attorneys.  “Counsel to Counsel” is updated every single week.  Have a question you’d like answered?  Email it to ncgrimes@grimeslegal.com.

                                                                                                                    By:Nancy

Article courtesy of  Nancy Grimes - Founder GLI / Grimes Legal, Inc. - Legal Search Firm
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