New Solo
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So, you’re a new lawyer or you’re new to practicing solo. You’ve got your game plan. Now what? First, know that you’re not ‘alone. It’s the fastest growing segment of the legal profession. Welcome to New Solo here on the Legal Talk Network, where you’ll learn a lot about practicing law. SOLO!
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
Nov 16, 2023
Out Of School And Hanging A Shingle? Build Your Brand!
Personal injury attorney Joshua “Josh” Bonnici left his first job out of law school to launch his own firm. Starting from scratch, just nine months later he hired his first employee and has been growing ever since. Bonnici built on his own love of cycling to focus on bicycle accidents and injuries, helping bicyclists in the bustling city of San Diego.
Now he’s known as “The Bike Guy” and stands out in the crowded personal injury field by specializing in an area he’s passionate about. He’s an example of specializing in something you love, and he’s sharing his story with new lawyers just starting out.
Bonnici walks us through, step by step, how he took advantage of an available incubator system, learned on the job from a mentor, and built his practice and his reputation. Hear how he got started, networked, built a brand, made himself memorable, and hired an assistant to make himself more productive. Real lessons from real life.
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
“Follow your passion” is common advice. But in the case of guest Josua Bonnici, his passion for bicycling helped him stand out in the crowded personal injury field.
Hiring your first employee. Why it’s scary and why it’s necessary.
How to develop a website and social media presence with a library of videos and testimonials.
Resources:
California Lawyers Association
Thomas Jefferson School of Law
San Diego Bar Association
Joshua Bonnici previous appearance on Legal Talk Network’s “On The Road” podcast
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Oct 12, 2023
How It’s Done: The Story Behind A Solo Practice
This inspiring episode tells the true story of a gutsy dad who started his own legal practice from scratch with no clients, no office, and no partner.
Guest Michael Mendoza is an Orlando solo practitioner specializing in family law. After graduating from law school with a growing family, Mendoza knew he wanted work/life balance instead of burying himself in a big firm with long hours. For Mendoza, the practice of family law is personal, having witnessed his parents’ contentious divorce.
Hear how Mendoza started with nothing, rolled up his sleeves, and launched a practice from putting together his tech to building his client base. How did he find clients? Did he advertise? What about a website? Or office space?
It’s been tough. But the combination of running his own practice and the satisfaction of helping families through a difficult period has proven rewarding. Mendoza’s story is a guide for young lawyers who want to hang out a shingle (he even has an employee now).
Nothing is easy. Nothing is perfect. It’s scary. But you can do this.
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Starting your own law firm is anything but easy. But it can be done. Hear first-hand from one attorney who did just that, from the ground up.
Software? Office space? Clients? Employees? Financials? There are a lot of balls in the air once you start juggling.
What are the best and worst decisions you can make starting out? (Hint: find a mentor).
Resources:
Florida Bar Association
Florida Bar Association, Legal Fuel assistance
Seminole County (Florida) Bar Association
San Diego County Bar
Nebraska State Bar Association
Clio legal software
Microsoft 365
Adobe PDF management
Text Expander
Mycase legal software
LawPay legal software
George C. Young American Inns of Court
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Sep 14, 2023
A Better AI, Built For Lawyers: Results You Can Finally Trust?
Let’s talk AI. Guests Nina Steinbrecker Jack and Ed Walters worked from the start to build Fastcase, now merged with international legal research firm vLex, striving to make legal research faster, better, and cheaper. Digging through law books is so 2010. Under the merger, incorporating generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), lawyers today have fingertip access to not only U.S. case law but also international law.
We’re witnessing a revolution in the use of generative AI, often producing results so good that it’s hard to determine what was written by a human and what was generated by the program. This is becoming the bedrock of legal research, saving attorneys time and money, allowing them work on strategy and building cases instead of hunting for case law.
But regular, layman’s, AI is still experiencing some hiccups, “hallucinating” incorrect information as it struggles to learn. Breaking news only on New Solo: Coming soon to vLex and Fastcase, an AI Lab is developing a new class of AI built just for law, globally, called (for now) “Research Assistant.” This new level of AI will be so up to date it will include cases decided in as little as 12 hours prior to each request, fully vetted and referenced.
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a great tool, but it’s also prone to errors. One popular tool, ChatGPT, is fun, but it’s not for legal research. Can lawyers trust an AI program to create bullet-proof results?
Breaking news on New Solo: Coming soon, vLex and Fastcase legal research together have built an AI Lab developing a new class of AI honed just for law, globally, tentatively called “Research Assistant.” AI results you can trust.
AI is not going away. If you’re not keeping up, you’re falling behind. Get involved and stay current. The world of computer assisted legal research is blowing up.
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Aug 17, 2023
The Brief-Writing Ninja: Tips You Need To Write Better Briefs.
You know the legal writing classes you took in law school? There’s a lot more to learn, and with a few steps, you can get better – and get better results. Guest Chris Schandevel is the “Brief-Writing Ninja” and passionate writing clear, simple, concise legal briefs that win over courts.
Courthouses are busy places. Judges and clerks deal with a lot of distractions and competing demands. Make your briefs stand out boy making them easier to read and follow. Any jargon, excessive footnotes, parentheticals, and asides just add to the chaos and detract from your argument. Good writing, formatting, and attention to detail matter.
Schandevel has created an easy-to-use, three-page style guide for legal writing and clear formatting. You don’t need to use fancy words to sell your case. Clear, simple language and a clean story help the court understand your argument and see your point.
Take a deep dive into the art and artistry of writing and presenting a legal brief at the highest levels, and get some tips you can start using today. (Plus, do you know the official preferred font of the U.S. Supreme Court?)
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Judges aren’t impressed with fancy words and jargon. A clear, easy-to-read legal brief is easier to follow to the conclusion you want your reader to reach.
Learn to remove barriers to the reader such as excessive footnotes, lengthy sentences and changes in “voice.” And do use the Oxford comma!
What is the “cleaned up parenthetical?” (And how is it being adopted at the highest levels of the law?) Find out.
Mentioned in this Episode:
BriefCatch software
“Think Commas Don't Matter? Omitting One Cost A Maine Dairy Company $5 Million”
“Cleaning Up Quotations” by Jack Metzler in The Journal of Appellate Law Practice and Process
“Legal Writing: Font Matters,” Thomson Reuters
Legal Office Guru
Legal Office Guru’s Deborah Savadra on New Solo, “Word Up 2: Creating Tables of Authority with Ease”
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Jul 21, 2023
The All-Mac Edition: The Episode For Mac-Curious Attorneys
The episode you’ve been waiting for. An all-Mac special with real Mac experts. More and more lawyers are using Apple Mac tech, including iPones, iPads, and laptops.
In the past, there were challenges shifting between Mac and Microsoft, but today’s practice management programs can work on both systems. You like Macs? Then go for it, there is less and less to hold you back.
Why Mac over PC? Cost, battery life, integrations between iPhones, the Apple watch, and iPads, as well as security are considerations. Only 15% to 20% of lawyers use Macs, so you do need to think things through and ensure you can share information with your Microsoft colleagues and opposing counsel. There are advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you understand every aspect.
There are some basics to getting started. Maybe most important is to not “cheap out” when you’re getting your computer system set up. Our guests explain what you need, including processor speed and memory. It all matters. Law is your business, your computer is your tool. If you’re investing anywhere, it’s here. RAM? ROM? Gigs? Ports? What do you need?
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Lawyers use Macs. Yes, it happens, and it can go well.
Know what kind of needs you have and learn how to use your Mac to your advantage. Speed, cross-platform exchanges, and even weight matter.
Programs abound for Mac lawyers. It’s not like the olden days when Microsoft programs only worked on Microsoft platforms. Adobe, Word, Excel all can work smoothly on a Mac.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Macs In Law Offices
Jeff Richardson’s prior appearances on Legal Talk Network
Brett Burney’s prior appearances on Legal Talk Network
Mac
Codeweavers
Parallels
USB hubs on Amazon
Adobe subscriptions
Textexpander
Textexpanders for Lawyers
Setapp for Mac
Ulysses app for Mac
Quick Look for Apple
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Jun 22, 2023
Yes You Can! Starting Your Solo Practice As A Second Career
Guest Andrew Schierberg retired from his first career after 20 years as a police officer, investigator, and chief in Northern Kentucky. Then he asked, “What next?” With a law degree and a lifetime of working in tense situations with people during their most stressful moments, Schierberg started a law practice with a focus on helping families by specializing in elder law and estate planning.
He wrote his own business plan, shadowed established attorneys, sought educational and business development support, found shared office space with other lawyers, and developed a holistic approach that lets him to build relationships with his clients and work not only as an attorney but also as a trusted advisor.
Learn how he set up his practice, selected case management software, established a flat-fee subscription plan for his clients rather than hourly rates, and developed an understanding of the needs of both elder clients and their families as they navigate a new stage of life.
If you’re well into a first career, you might be surprised at how much your “real world experience” can translate to a solo law practice.
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Starting a solo practice as a second career and putting your “old job” skills to work in your new venture.
The importance of selecting the right practice management and office equipment tools, learning about marketing, and asking for help when you don’t know.
The value of finding a niche that lets you focus your energy on the kind of law that matches your passion.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Fearless Paranoia podcast
Life Care Planning Law Firms Association
Actionstep
MyCase
ElderCounsel
DecisionVault
Calendly
Textexpander
Maximum Lawyer podcast
The 80/20 Principle podcast
The Law Entrepreneur podcast
Lunch Hour Legal Marketing podcast
Peggy Gruenke on Legal Talk Network podcasts
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May 25, 2023
eDiscovery: Not just for large firms!
Take a deep dive into eDiscovery for small and midsized firms with an old friend and frequent New Solo contributor, guest Brett Burney, a lawyer and longtime consultant who’s passionate about legal tech. Facing a mountain of electronic documents from PDFs to spreadsheets to emails to texts in discovery? You don’t need to be an expert, but you do need to understand the basics, the traps, and the available tools.
Start by accepting that electronic files aren’t paper files. They are inherently different and aren’t meant to be printed out. Embrace the format and treat electronic documents as what they are. If you print electronic documentation out, or you accept a printed version, you’re not getting the full picture, and you’re letting potentially valuable information slip through your fingers.
It's a digital world, and litigation is more likely than ever to include emails, smartphones, voice mails, social media posts and comments, and texts.
If you’ve been wondering if you’re doing the best job possible with eDiscovery, this is the episode for you.
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Electronic discovery (eDiscovery) involves electronic files that are inherently different than paper discovery. What you need to know and mistakes you may be making.
Metadata included in electronic documents can offer valuable clues that help you prepare your case, but it’s easy to contaminate that data.
Understand the available tools that organize, preserve, and prepare digital evidence, including extracting text messages, voice memos, and emails from smartphones and tablets.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Previously on New Solo, with guest Brett Burney
LegalWeek New York
iMazing
“Forensic Image,” Science Direct
Synctech
Synctech SMS Backup and Restore
X1 Search
Page Vault
Pagefreezer
WebPreserver vs. Pagefreezer
Relativity
Relativity One
Everlaw
NextPoint
Logicull
Disco
Lexbe
GoldFynch
Acrobat
Digital WarRoom
NextPoint blog, “eDiscovery with Outlook: 3 Reasons Why Outlook is NOT a Document Review Tool,”
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Apr 27, 2023
What Your Practice Management Advisor Can Do for You!
Quite a few bar associations have practice management advisors (or perhaps someone in a similar role), but a whole lot of lawyers aren’t aware of how this free member service could help them change their practice for the better. Adriana Linares chats with fellow practice management professional Catherine Sanders Reach about the services they provide to attorneys — from consulting on technology and ethics to starting a new business and so much more.
Later, the term “legal operations” might seem like it only applies to the “Big Law” end of the spectrum, but a solo or small firm should be just as keen on having well-planned operating procedures for their business from the get-go. Adriana and Catherine talk through easy-to-use tools that help law firms big and small operate with efficiency.
And, last, Microsoft 365 is rolling out Copilot, and Adriana and Catherine are watching its progress with great anticipation. Tune in for their thoughts on how this and similar tech could impact your legal practice.
Catherine Sanders Reach is director at the Center for Practice Management at the North Carolina Bar Association.
Topics:
Tapping into the knowledge your bar association’s practice management advisor has to offer.
Legal operations for solo and small law firms.
Microsoft 365 Copilot’s potential for lawyers.
Mentioned in this episode:
Catherine’s From the Center Blog
NCBA Center for Practice Management
ABA Legal Technology Resource Center
Lisa Crosbie - YouTube
Introducing Microsoft 365 Copilot
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Mar 30, 2023
Solo, But Not? Shared Office Space (Plus, Chatbots and A.I.)
For solos sharing office space with other attorneys, there are advantages, but also potential headaches. How do you navigate this arrangement?
Guest Jared Correia is a podcaster, lawyer, and full-time business management consultant, sort of the lawyer you know who knows how to run a business. For clients, he digs into law firm management from the very high-level strategy to the nuts and bolts of tech and daily operations.
Shared offices create issues with malpractice insurance, shared practice management software, and clearly communicating your solo status while working in what to a client may appear to be a firm.
Plus, the important distinctions between website chat capability, automated chatbots, and the emergence of true artificial intelligence such as ChatGPT. Learn where each product can fill gaps in your practice and turn leads into clients. Tech that may make your solo practice work like a larger firm.
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Practice management problems attorneys in a shared office space encounter.
Incorporating online chat and chatbots on your website, capture more leads.
And where does the latest – ChatGPT artificial intelligence – fit?
Resources from This Episode:
Nebraska Bar
Florida Bar
San Diego Bar
Book, “The Of Counsel Agreement” by Harold Wren
ABA, Of Counsel defined
ABA Techshow
ABA Legal Technology Resource Center
Formilla
Apex remote assistants
Smith remote assistants
Ruby
Abby Connect
Back Office Betties
ChatGPT
OpenAI
Google A.I., “Bard”
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Feb 28, 2023
Special Solo Episode! A Full Review Of The Legal Tech You Need Now
Hanging up a shingle takes more than a law degree. Today’s legal tech and software helps solo and small practices be more productive and organized than ever. “Good enough” isn’t good enough. Know what you need, and get it!
Adriana runs through the tech foundation of a successful firm: from the computers to the office software to the case management software and add-ons that can streamline your practice and better serve your clients.
Adriana names names, provides recommendations, and answers the questions she hears from clients regularly. This is the personal consultation you have wanted … for free!
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Drop us a line at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
PC or Mac? Does it matter?
Office management tools? Make sure everything integrates, from your accounting software (hint, most accountants use QuickBooks) to your PDF creation tools. Don’t be cheap!
Case management tools and “add-ons” save time and organize your practice. And when it comes to labeling files, don’t be clever, be clear and concise. You have 256 characters to name a document, use them all so you can share work.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Microsoft Office 365
Google Workspace
Adobe Acrobat Pro
QuickBooks
Clio
Clio Integrations
ABA Legal Technology Resource Center
Mycase
Rocket Matter
CosmoLex
Zolasuite
Actionstep
Centerbase
Microsoft OneDrive
Dropbox
Loom.com
Law Firm Autopilot
Netdocuments
Fastcase
Casetext
Textexpander.com
TextexpanderforLawyers
Vonage
Nextiva
Dialpad
RingCentral
Ruby
Abby Connect
Smith.ai
Back Office Betties
New Solo Back Episode Library
A Listener’s Guide to the New Solo Back Catalog
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Jan 30, 2023
Google, Maps, And Business? This is YOUR Episode.
What’s this about Google My Business? Well, for starters it connects your business to the Bible: The real Google Maps page. If you’re in business, you need to understand this. It’s not hard, but it takes a bit of work, and it’s a must.
Create a system, understand the process, and don’t be shy about asking for Google reviews, they matter.
(BTW, you can’t cheat or lie about a physical location. Google sends a postcard to verify. Who knew? So, you need to figure it out. Here’s how, even if you work out of a co-working facility. Do you need a sign? Yes, you do. Google has a lot of weird rules.)
And for Heaven’s sake, if you tell Google you’ll accept messaging through Google, you need to answer your messages or risk bad reviews and cranky customers. Do or do not. There is no try.
NAP? It’s got to be consistent across the web. If you don’t know it, you need to listen to this episode. This is everything you need to know about Google mapping and why it’s so important.
P…
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Dec 12, 2022
Building A Successful Law Firm: The “Triangle” and “Polaris”
Is the secret to your law firm’s success a triangle?
Guest Christopher T. Anderson is a law practice management consultant (and host of the Legal Talk Network’s Un-Billable Hour). Anderson shares the “triangle” of a successful law firm: Acquiring clients; Producing the results you promised; and Achieving and Measuring the impact and success of your firm.
Anderson’s unique take on law firm management is built on thinking of law as a real business first. Why are you doing what you do?
Acquiring new clients means building on referrals, creating relationships, and paid marketing. Know and tell your story.
Producing results translates to setting client expectations (and meeting them), and doing your best work. Establish a “North Star” for every case.
And then there’s achieving and measuring the results for your business stakeholders. Where do you want to be? What separates good law firms from great ones? A law firm is a business, it’s OK to admit that.
Got questions…
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Nov 30, 2022
Networking, Marketing, ABA Techshow – How they are all closely interconnected.
The ABA Techshow isn’t just for tech wizards; rather, it should be a vital part of every solo lawyer’s networking plan! Guests Jeannine Abukhater Lambert and Gyi Tsakalakis are co-chairs of the upcoming ABA Techshow, the home of all things tech and your opportunity to see what’s new, and what you’re missing.
Both guests serve unique corners of the legal world and found their paths through different methods. Lambert covers large policy areas through academia, and Tsakalakis is a leader in employing tech into legal marketing, making the most out of any firm. No matter what area of the legal world your career leads you to, knowing how to network and market effectively is vital to your success.
What’s frightening is how many lawyers, across the field, say “tech competence” isn’t relevant. Not only is it relevant, it’s table stakes. If you aren’t confident of your firm’s – or your own – tech know-how, the ABA Techshow can open your eyes, open new pathways, and help…
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Oct 27, 2022
A Second Career: Building a Solo Law Practice Later in Life
Guest Joanne Martin is an inspiration to anyone considering a career change later in life. She’s a family law attorney in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. While she vigorously represents her clients, she strives to create a respectful and collaborative environment when settling family law issues, including divorce and separation, especially when children are involved.
Martin had a successful career in film and television, as well as a husband and four children, when she returned to school to earn her law degree. It can be done. Second careers do happen.
After law school and working with a firm, Martin launched her solo practice, Align Family Law. Hear how she built a firm based on her values and understanding of the family dynamic, striving to help divorcing clients work toward respectful solutions. She also offers valuable insights into how she set up her office, built a website, developed written content, selected practice management software, developed a transparent pricing mod…
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Sep 29, 2022
CRM: What’s In It For You?
Still think your small or solo practice can go it alone without a client relationship platform (CRM)? Maybe you don’t have all the facts. From intake to holiday cards to referrals and repeat business, learn how a CRM propels your practice.
Guest Matt Siegel is a serial entrepreneur, attorney, and the CEO of Lawmatics. He believes that a good CRM should free information from “data prisons,” integrate client onboarding, track client data, build relationships, and even manage holiday greetings and follow-ups. It’s all about automation and flexibility, freeing attorneys to do what they do best: practice law.
Stop thinking about being a law firm and start thinking about being a business. You do law, a CRM does client management. Don’t miss this episode.
Got questions or ideas about solo and small practices? Hit us up at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
A CRM isn’t just for big firms. Solo and small firms can get a big boost from an affordable platform.
Even after the case…
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Aug 25, 2022
A Small Family Firm With Just One Client and No Website?
Guest Ana "Ani" P. Rodriguez-Newbern is a “do-gooder,” a Florida lawyer dedicated to service both to the state of Florida and to the public good. She serves on multiple legal committees while her small family firm, Tangel-Rodriguez & Associates, represents the Florida Department of Revenue in child support matters. She shares how working with both her mother and brother blends every aspect of professional and family life. (Not to mention, her father is a retired judge).
Rodriguez-Newbern’s firm has only one client, the State of Florida, through a contract for the past 30 years. The firm specializes in child support cases in Orange County, Florida, working for the state on behalf of residents receiving public assistance. The state contract makes up the firm’s entire book of business.
Interested in a government contract? Both city and state websites are a good place to look, as well as networking to learn when contracts may be coming up.
Got questions or ideas about solo and smal…
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Jul 21, 2022
Putting Yourself Out There, Key to Your Solo Practice
Guest Levi Barlavi is a “niche practice” solo attorney, focusing on the needs of medical providers. He started his own practice just three years after law school, and, yes, it can be done.
But being a solo, no matter how good you are, requires insights into the available legal tech tools, and it’s OK to ask for help. They don’t teach you this stuff in law school. So how did Barlavi grow a solo practice, learn to plan, create a vision, and incorporate tech and marketing?
Hear how networking, curiosity, conferences, public speaking, and following his passion helped Barlavi develop a practice that excites him and grows by the year. As Barlavi says, get personal, go outside your comfort zone, dive into social media, and “exercise your boldness.”
Got questions or ideas? Don’t forget to hit us up at NewSolo@legaltalknetwork.com
Topics:
Guest Levi Barlavi shares how he followed his passion as a solo practitioner and found a unique niche in healthcare services.
Get outs…
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Jun 23, 2022
HIPAA Happens, But Compliance Software Can Help
Clio, the legal tech services giant, provides options that can help firms comply with federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance. As many lawyers know – or come to learn – healthcare information can be a third rail. HIPAA regulations create unique knots to untangle when you get anywhere near sensitive healthcare information.
What’s a HIPAA “covered entity,” and how does it affect responsibilities for health records, data protection, and sharing?
What level of security and encryption are required?
And how do new HITECH act vendor data handling regulations affect you?
If you’re representing doctors buying or selling a practice, or representing a nursing home or health provider, it can get messy in a minute.
Attorneys can struggle to comply with all the regulations. But incorporating a comprehensive, firm-wide compliance tech solution can help.
(Plus, learn how to stop misspelling HIPAA, because we’ve all done it).
Got questions or ideas?…
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May 19, 2022
“Solo By Choice” Update! Opening Your Own Shop
Longtime friend of Legal Talk Network Carolyn Elefant – author, mentor, blogger, and solo practitioner – joins host Adriana Linares with a huge update to her hit book “Solo by Choice.”
Get a one-stop-shop overview for any new solo practitioner. The pandemic, social media, online content, and business generation trends are shaking the legal practice bedrock.
The online conferencing and virtual offices of the pandemic are challenging the need for a formal office. Billing practices and options are shifting. Virtual assistants and freelancers are the norm. Clients are looking to new sources for attorneys.
Of course, you still need paying clients. Hear ideas on how to fully commit to your practice, find your niche, and build business from day one. Plus, business practice requirements, customer relationship programs, insurance, licensing, cybersecurity, and legal tech software. There’s no better time for new solo practitioners to ask for what they want – and get it. What’s ahea…
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Apr 28, 2022
The Microsoft 365 Special: Your Questions, Expert Answers
At last! The anticipated Windows and Windows 365 tech episode with Adam Alexander, IT solutions guru and president of InterNetwork IT. Together, they answer all those questions you’ve messaged and tweeted in the past months.
We’re getting into the nitty gritty. Learn what’s available and find solutions to problems that seem unsolvable. Don’t settle for “good enough!”
Topics:
Adriana and Adam dive deep into all things Microsoft 365, OneDrive, and more.
Make access to your data more organized, safer, and easier for your employees or coworkers to share.
Plus, your questions about all things Microsoft. You asked, we answered.
New Insights
In our series New Insights, veteran attorney Jennifer Smith Thomas answers questions from Birmingham, Alabama, new attorney Jennifer Townsend about the challenges of working with her father in a small, family-owned firm.
Question 3: “My Dad keeps saying ‘I’m a dinosaur, I don’t need to learn anything new.’ How do I convi…
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Mar 17, 2022
“Old Dogs” and New Tricks: An Established Firm Modernizes
Guest Tom L. Drew is a longtime attorney in Des Moines, Iowa. He reached out to New Solo and host Adriana Linares for help modernizing his practice and getting the most out of today’s tech.
Drew is comfortable with computers, but he’s always looking for newer, better, more efficient methods. As a long-time paperless operation, Drew’s office was in a good place when it went remote during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As his office went to a work-from-home environment, Drew was quick to incorporate training sessions and provide the necessary tools to help his team set up comfortable, efficient home offices. He found that money spent on tech is money well spent, and speed and efficiency matters more than cost.
Hear how Drew upgraded software and replaced an on-site server with the cloud for a faster, on-the-go setup. Still unsure about cloud technology, OneDrive, Office 365, remote access, and document sharing? Learn how and where these pieces fit in a modern office.
Plus, we have a specia…
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Feb 24, 2022
Here’s to Plain Speaking and Clear Understanding
Guest attorney Ruth Carter is nothing if not transparent. A client’s failure to plan should not be a cause for crisis to an attorney!
Carter talks openly and honestly with host Adriana Linares about being clear with clients. Tell them your rates up front, even put them on your website. And set “rush rates” for any work that suddenly pops up, it sets expectations and encourages clients to think ahead and plan accordingly. Is your firm incorporating “rush rates” into client contracts?
Plus, we have a special upcoming mailbag edition on Office 365 and all things Microsoft. Got a question? Contact us at newsolo@legaltalknetwork.com.
Topics:
Using simple, plain language to help clients understand what they are signing and what they are accomplishing.
It’s OK to be transparent about your rates and that those rates increase when a matter is suddenly urgent!
Being honest about what you do and what clients should expect.
New Insights
In a brand-new series of New Insights, v…
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Jan 13, 2022
Introverted or Shy (and a Lawyer)? You’re Not Alone
In an innovative and self-care focused episode, host Adriana Linares talks with author, professor, attorney and self-proclaimed “poster child of introversion and shyness” Heidi Brown. Hear how she learned to succeed in the high-pressure atmosphere of legal practice.
Learn to untangle your communication traits and internal turmoil. Listen to your mind – and your body – and understand your strengths and abilities. If you struggle to speak up, to confidently share your ideas, or understand how you process information and energy, you are not alone.
Brown, author of “The Introverted Lawyer: A Seven-Step Journey Toward Authentically Empowered Advocacy” and “Untangling Fear in Lawyering: A Four-Step Journey Toward Powerful Advocacy,” delves into the feelings of stress and anxiety that can hold us back.
Plus, we have a special upcoming mailbag edition on Office 365 and all things Microsoft. Got a question? Contact us at newsolo@legaltalknetwork.com.
Topics:
– It’…
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Dec 16, 2021
Service To Others, The Secret To Success
Lift your practice by lifting others. Host Adriana Linares talks with attorney and community leader Eugene Pettis about how his lifelong commitment to community service built his brand and his business.
Pettis, the first African American president of The Florida Bar, made a conscious effort to carve out time for giving back, leading literacy and education efforts and fostering open, honest communication while seeking solutions. Public service builds connections, brand, and ultimately business. “We’re on this earth to do better by others,” he says.
But don’t forget, a business doesn’t build itself. Be bold. Pettis, who has represented Fortune 100 companies including ExxonMobil and Starbucks, says he’s never shied from approaching even the biggest potential clients.
Plus, we have a special upcoming mailbag edition on Office 365 and all things Microsoft. Got a question? Contact us at newsolo@legaltalknetwork.com.
Topics:
Service above self. Know the value of communit…
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Nov 18, 2021
You’re Not Alone: ABA Law Practice Division
If you’re starting or running a solo or small law practice (or even working in a larger firm), it’s important to remember you are not out there on your own. The ABA Law Practice Division (ABA LP) is loaded with resources to help you succeed and grow your business.
ABA LP Chair Heidi Barcus and Vice Chair Mary Vandenack join host Adriana Linares for a deep dive into the four pillars of success: marketing, management, finance, and tech (not to mention your own well-being). Learn what resources are available for you. Membership in the ABA LP includes access to all the books, mentoring, meetings, fellowship, and support of the ABA LP.
For anything you want to know about the practice of law, the ABA LP is the place to go.
Plus, we have a special upcoming mailbag edition on Office 365 and all things Microsoft. Got a question? Want to share some insights? Contact us at newsolo@legaltalknetwork.com.
Topics:
You don’t have to go it alone when starting or running your solo or sm…
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Oct 28, 2021
A First Year Recap From a New Family Law Practitioner
After passing the bar, attorney Cassandra Michel knew she wanted to open her own family law practice, Aloha Divorce, focusing on amicable divorces and family law.
Adriana dives into how a new lawyer can open a successful practice as she walks through the process of establishing a brand, creating a business plan, and networking. Choosing the right tech, deciding on using a home office, shared office, or standalone brick and mortar? Marketing? Sponsorships? Referrals? Even learning to efficiently block off time and learning how to say “no” when the client isn’t the right fit. It’s all part of getting out there and going solo. Yes, you can.
Plus, we have a special upcoming mailbag edition. Got a question? Want to share some insights? Contact us now at newsolo@legaltalknetwork.com.
Topics:
Get organized before you open the door. Understand your brand, your goals, and even yourself.
Home office, virtual practice, shared workspace, or standalone office. What’s right for you?…
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Sep 30, 2021
A Short Primer on Microsoft Accounts, OneDrive, and SharePoint
In a special episode of New Solo, legal tech whiz Adriana Linares tackles a topic that baffles many legal practitioners: the dreaded Microsoft suite of services. What do you really need and what are you missing?
Many lawyers jumped into Microsoft’s 365 universe during the pandemic. Sharing files and working collaboratively from home is appealing, but there’s a lot to learn about the array of products. OneDrive? SharePoint? Secure document sharing?
Learn the difference between personal and private accounts and how to juggle them. Stop paying too much and wasting time in this confusing – but often vital – suite of services (hint: none of us want the $5 monthly service). And yes, it’s OK to ask for professional help; a little instruction doesn’t have to be expensive and pays off in the long run.
And we begin another New Insights series as veteran attorney Liz McCausland offers new solo Stephanie Larenas three suggestions for growing a new practice.
Have insights, tips, inspi…
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Aug 26, 2021
Get Organized! Leverage Tech for Work/Life Balance
Guest: Kimberley Felton is an immigration attorney, consultant, and supermom and the founder of virtual immigration law firm Onward Immigration and consulting firm Innovation Litigation.
Shortly after law school, Kimberley Felton found herself struggling with all the things they don’t teach: How to manage time, clients, and family. She knew there had to be a better way.
Unfulfilled in disorganized settings and fighting to find meaning in her new profession, she taught herself to incorporate available technologies that let her serve the clients she is passionate about while spending quality time with her husband and two children.
Felton discovered she wasn’t alone and now helps other attorneys break free from “the way we’ve always done it” by embracing tech and project management platforms to build a better work/life balance and a more efficient, rewarding practice.
Topics:
What you need to know … that they don’t teach in law school
Leveraging technology to manag…
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Jul 29, 2021
Becoming A Master of Microsoft Word
Guest Marie Stockton is an estate planning lawyer laser-focused on making sure her clients understand what they’re signing. She’s mastering document prep tools to assure they have the look and feel that encourages reading and comprehension.
Topics:
Making the shift from WordPerfect to Microsoft Word
Paying attention to the little things, like fonts
Designing and creating styles for formatting
Complex numbering for document accuracy
Resources:
Matthew Butterick, Typography for Lawyers
Debora Savatra, Legal Office Guru
Barron Henley, Affinity Consulting
Mark Unger, Muse Legal
YouTube
Lynda/LinkedIn Learning
New Insights (brought to you by Nota):
Veteran practitioner Starlett Massey answers litigation associate Melanie Kalmanson’s question.
Question 3 of 4: “What are three things you would like to see changed in the legal profession?”
Special thanks to our sponsors, Lawclerk, Alert Communications, Abby Connect, and Clio.
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Jun 24, 2021
A Listener's Guide to the New Solo Back Catalog
Brand new solo Dean Blachford binged New Solo’s episodes before launching his practice. He offers a crash course featuring standout episodes.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Lawclerk, Alert Communications, Abby Connect, and Clio.
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May 20, 2021
The Unorthodox Path to Becoming a Lawyer
Solo Rachel Allums earned her law practice chops running a firm before joining the bar, and her estate planning practice is all the better.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Lawclerk, Alert Communications, Abby Connect, and Clio.
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Apr 15, 2021
Client Acquisition in the 21st Century: With Instagram & TikTok??
How new solos Taly Goody and Michelle Fonseca-Kamana create videos for social media that attract clients and referrals.
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Mar 11, 2021
Decamping to Puerto Rico
When one can practice almost anywhere, why not Puerto Rico? Sarah de Deigo leapt even before the pandemic popularized these wholesale moves.
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Feb 25, 2021
Oh, The Messes We See
Business consultant Peggy Gruenke explains what happens when solo and small firms don’t have their financial houses in order.
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Jan 25, 2021
Case Study: Journey to the Cloud
With an updated format and new segment, Adriana Linares takes listeners behind the scenes of a firm’s migration to the cloud.
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Dec 3, 2020
What New Solos can Learn from Han Solo
Marketing expert Seth Godin and Jack Newton discuss niche practices and how lawyers can be the ‘one and only’ in a crowded field.
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Nov 5, 2020
Why a Career Path Isn’t a Straight Line
Guest Jonathan Greenblatt shares four tips for building a successful legal career, even when you’re not in the job you expected.
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Oct 1, 2020
Getting Started Tips from a New Solo
Having launched as a solo just a year ago, Kelly Roberts shares tips that made her practice profitable by month two.
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Sep 18, 2020
Unintended Consequences Rule the World
Lawclerk co-founder Greg Garman expounds on how the pandemic, aka, the tech enlightenment period, opened doors for lawyers and legal business.
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Sep 3, 2020
From Clicks to Clients: The Law Firm Marketing Funnel Explained
Digital marketing expert Jason Marsh explains how internet ad campaigns work in concert with a firm’s client intake process.
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Aug 20, 2020
TechnoLawyer’s 2020 Top Tech Products Revealed
Neil J. Squillante announces TechnoLawyer’s Top Product Awards for 2020.
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Aug 6, 2020
Back to Basics: Smart Marketing for Solos Part 2
Legal marketing expert Conrad Saam demystifies online marketing with no-nonsense tips about SEO, choosing a URL, and hiring a marketer.
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Jul 2, 2020
Back to Basics: Smart Marketing for New Solos - Part 1
Conrad Saam gives an overview of the fundamentals of good legal marketing.
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Jun 11, 2020
Making the Most of Your LinkedIn Profile with Dennis Kennedy and Allison Shields
Dennis Kennedy and Allison Shields share their insights on effective LinkedIn use from their book, “Make LinkedIn Work for You: A Practical Guide for Lawyers and Other Legal Professionals.”
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May 21, 2020
Law Firm Leadership: Cultivating Positivity in Your Law Firm
David Holmes shares insights from his personal experiences as a law firm leader.
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May 7, 2020
Help for Bar Associations: Insights on How to Continue Operations During COVID-19
Jill Epstein and Keith Fisher share insights on how they transitioned the San Diego County Bar Association to work remotely.
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Apr 23, 2020
Tips and Tools for Surviving the Shift to Remote Work
Adriana Linares and Brett Burney offer tips and recommendations for remote work tools and services.
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Mar 31, 2020
Going Remote During COVID-19: Tips and Tools for At-Home Legal Practice
David Holmes, Henry Herrman, and Greg Lambert offer guidance for establishing remote legal practice.
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Feb 28, 2020
Implementing the Right Processes with Ernie Svenson
Ernie Svenson discusses how his work with attorneys helps them use their time better and get more meaningful clients.
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Jan 29, 2020
Learning Blockchain From Those Who Know It Best
Early blockchain co-inventor Scortt Stornetta and IBM’s Shawnna Hoffman discuss the past, present, and future of blockchain. Learn how this technology is already impacting your life.
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Dec 17, 2019
Brand New Solo: Legal Tech and Business Tips from Philip Mauriello
Philip Mauriello discusses his path to becoming a solo attorney.
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Nov 12, 2019
Shifting to Neutral: Kristin Rizzo’s Journey From Litigation to Mediation
Kristin Rizzo describes her journey from a large law firm to solo practice to mediation
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Oct 17, 2019
Did You Really Read Those Terms of Service?
Daniel Whitehouse guides lawyers in the process of choosing secure, ethically compliant cloud services.
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Sep 30, 2019
Marco Brown’s Eight Commandments for Getting Paid
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares talks to Marco Brown about his eight Commandments for Getting Paid.
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Aug 30, 2019
Money Management 101 for Solo and Small Firm Professionals
Amanda Moore, CPA, shares tips on how to manage your practice’s finances and your bookkeeper as well as keeping yourself off the IRS’ radar.
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Jul 31, 2019
Take Control of Your Work and Life with New Apps, Bots, and Services.
Liz McCausland shares some of the professional and personal services she uses to improve both her work life and her personal life.
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Jun 25, 2019
The Journey from a Big Firm to Solo Practice
David Leatherberry talks about how healthcare law led him to start his solo firm, his experience in the legal industry and his current passion to help behavioral health practitioners with their legal needs.
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May 30, 2019
Balancing Solo Practice with Bar Leadership with the Right Tech Tools
Host Adriana Linares sits down with Renée Thompson, mediator and member of the Florida Bar Board of Governors, to discuss what tools enable her to accomplish her goals, to review her accomplishments during her time on numerous bar committees, and to look forward towards her planned run for Florida Bar president (and why being a solo practitioner is an asset for the role).
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Apr 19, 2019
Work and Life: How Two Solo Lawyers Balance Busy Careers, Marriage, and Parenting
Adriana Linares hosts solo lawyers and married couple Renee and Phil Stackhouse. They discuss their individual careers and delve into how they manage their personal lives as a couple and as parents. They go on to discuss how they manage their practices from a business perspective, from office space to legal technology to financial matters. In their final segment, Renee and Phil talk about their work in military law, describing the types of matters they deal with and highlighting interesting cases.
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Mar 28, 2019
Launching a Successful Practice: Tips from Pro Solo/Small Firm Lawyers
There are so many unknowns when starting a new law practice – what should and shouldn’t new solos do when first striking out on their own? In this episode, host Adriana Linares talks to solo/small lawyers Paige Greenlee and Brittany Maxey-Fisher about their career experiences. They discuss what led them to decide to go out on their own and what strategies they have used to grow their practices. They offer tips for solos on technology, practice management, networking, organic marketing, hiring, and more.
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Feb 14, 2019
TL NewsWire’s Top 25 Products Awards
Lawyers, if you’re looking for a new tech product or don’t know what you might be missing, tune in for some great ideas. In this episode, host Adriana Linares talks to Neil Squillante of TechnoLawyer about TL NewsWire’s top 25 products awards. The top-25 list, determined by reader interest, gives a wide-ranging look at the most useful and sought-after tech products and services for the legal industry.
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Jan 30, 2019
CRM Value: How Lawmatics Enhances Client Experience
Engaging with your clients from start to finish (and beyond) can boost your firm’s success. In this episode, host Adriana Linares talks to Matt Spiegel, co-founder and CEO of Lawmatics, about the software solutions they offer lawyers for streamlining the processes of customer relationship management. From intake to automated marketing — focusing on a good client experience helps lawyers grow their revenue.
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Nov 30, 2018
SDCBA Solo Lawyer Panel Part 2
Solo lawyers face a demanding but rewarding profession. Host Adriana Linares talks to a panel of solo attorneys about their diverse career experiences. They discuss the many challenges of being a solo lawyer and offer practical guidance to solos on a variety of topics including: mentorship, choosing (or not choosing) office space, building independence, developing fee agreements, technology, self-care, and much more.
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Nov 30, 2018
SDCBA Solo Lawyer Panel Part 1
Solo lawyers face a demanding but rewarding profession. Host Adriana Linares talks to a panel of solo attorneys about their diverse career experiences. They discuss the many challenges of being a solo lawyer and offer practical guidance to solos on a variety of topics including: mentorship, choosing (or not choosing) office space, building independence, developing fee agreements, technology, self-care, and much more.
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Oct 26, 2018
Using Casetext for Legal Research
Jake Heller highlights the benefits of the affordable legal research tool, Casetext. He describes why Casetext is an affordable and effective alternative to the major legal research products on the market. In this episode of New Solo, Heller and Adriana Linares discuss how Casetext’s artificial technology software, known as CARA, works.
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Sep 13, 2018
The Solo Essentials
One of our listeners has decided to launch his own solo practice. Host Adriana Linares talks to Taylor Darcy about what made him want to go solo and the technology that has helped make his practice successful. They discuss integrating automated systems and how the tools he uses allows him to focus on the important things while technology takes care of the rest.
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Aug 20, 2018
Using Chatbot Technology to Automate your Firm
A chatbot is a form of artificial intelligence software that can participate in conversation and websites use them to engage with site viewers. Host Adriana Linares talks to Tom Martin about how small firm lawyers can implement chatbots on their own websites. They discuss how the technology works and address some of the common hesitations lawyers have when considering the use of a chatbot.
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Jul 27, 2018
How Freelance Lawyering Works
If you’ve ever wondered about using freelance lawyers and the process involved, this may be the episode for you. Host Adriana Linares talks to Greg Garman about New Solo’s new sponsor Lawclerk and what it offers to solo and small firm lawyers. They discuss how posting and responding to projects works within Lawclerk and address common ethical and practical questions lawyers have about using the site.
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Jun 29, 2018
What Storms May Come: Preparing your Firm for Natural Disaster
Host Adriana Linares and co-host Jack Newton talk to Renee Thompson and Zack Zuroweste about how law firms can prepare for and recover from natural disasters. They discuss switching to the cloud in order to eliminate the loss of physical files, ensuring your backups are actually saving everything you need, and the ability to be mobile and take your office with you in a pinch.
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May 29, 2018
The Secret Life of a Mobile Lawyer
You don’t have to have a physical office to be a lawyer. Host Adriana Linares talks to Greg McLawsen about the lifestyle of the nomadic attorney. Greg shares how he decided to wander the globe and how he built his law firm around his desire to travel. He also discusses the technology that enables him to run a mobile law office, from chatbots to visual project management.
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Apr 19, 2018
How to Own your Niche
Starting your own solo practice in a competitive area is hard enough; raising five kids while running your business is even harder. Host Adriana Linares talks to Bill Galione about how he combined research, personal interest, and passion to establish a niche within personal injury law. He also shares how he balances caring for five kids on top of his solo practice, which could potentially qualify as another kid.
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Mar 30, 2018
Splitting the Difference: How to Change Locations
In December 2015, Barbara Leach shared how she managed to split office resources without causing office drama. Adriana Linares talks to Barbara about how to effectively separate after sharing an office with another firm. She also shares tips on hiring and what she does to create a supportive and creative work environment for her coworkers.
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Feb 20, 2018
The Difficulty of Switching Technology
Laptops are kind of like that greener grass; they always look shinier in someone else’s hands. But switching around your technology, whether it’s transitioning to using Macs or deciding to use a tablet, could be more work than you think. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks to Joe Patrice talk about what it really looks like to switch from Windows to Mac and the advantages and disadvantages of using tablets for your business. Sprinkled into their conversation are tips about buying new tech tools, switching to the cloud, and where you can find small firm content on Above The Law.
Joe Patrice is an Editor at Above the Law where, for him, making snide remarks about other lawyers is at least as fulfilling as motion practice.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney.
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Dec 22, 2017
Word Up 2: Creating Tables of Authority with Ease
Microsoft Word has a feature specifically for creating a table of authorities but many are still intimidated when it comes to using the software. In this episode of New Solo, Legal Office Guru Deborah Savadra joins host Adriana Linares to explain the details of creating tables of authority in Word. They review everything from dialog boxes and categories to styles and pagination. They also discuss the complaints they hear the most and the easiest ways for lawyers to save time and prevent mistakes while using Word’s tables of authority software.
Deborah Savadra, over the course of her career, has worked in law offices as a legal secretary, paralegal, and technology “fixer upper.”
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney.
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Nov 28, 2017
Up Your Marketing Game with Newsletters
Email marketing can be a very valuable tool for solo lawyers. But how can you make your newsletter stand out from spam and competition? In this episode of New Solo recorded at the 2017 Clio Cloud Conference, host Adriana Linares and guest host Liz McCausland talk to Andrew LeGrand about the ins and outs of using newsletters as a marketing strategy. They discuss things like open rates, tracking referrals, and how to make newsletter content relevant and interesting. They also briefly cover blogging and how to use your blog to effectively reuse content you already have.
Andrew Legrand is the founding partner at Spera Law Group, LLC, a cloud and paperless law firm in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney.
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Oct 20, 2017
Polish and Perfect Your Legal Writing Skills
As a lawyer, you write a lot. Whether it’s a contract, report, proposal, or even just a long email, your writing needs to be professional and clear of errors. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks to Ivy Grey and Daniel Heuman of Intelligent Editing’s PerfectIt about the editing services that their product offers and how it helps lawyers on a daily basis. They also discuss the importance of technology competence for lawyers and share their favorite apps and tips to saving time and effort in your business.
Ivy B. Grey is the author of “American Legal Style for PerfectIt,” and is a senior attorney at Griffin Hamersky LLP.
Daniel Heuman developed PerfectIt, an add-in for MS Word that finds mistakes that spelling and grammar checkers can’t find.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney.
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Sep 21, 2017
Word Up: Using Microsoft Word Like a Pro
If you’ve ever experienced frustration with Microsoft Word or other word processors, you’re in luck. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares and guest Allan Mackenzie go in depth about how to use Microsoft Word effectively, including tips and tricks you can put into practice before the podcast ends. They cover keyboard shortcuts, setting defaults, and how to set up the quick access toolbar to meet your specific needs.
Allan Mackenzie is a 25-year veteran of the legal technology world. His experience ranges from that of a former night-shift word processor to a Wall Street IT director with a specialty in litigation technology.
Microsoft Word Tips for Legal Professionals from LawTech Partners on Vimeo.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney.
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Aug 21, 2017
Using Technology to Sustain a Rural Practice
Lawyers are often hesitant to set up a practice in a rural area because they believe it will be difficult to find enough clients and sustain a business, but this isn’t necessarily true. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks to Jeff Alford about why he chose to set up shop in small-town Kentucky and what technology he uses to help his practice thrive. They also discuss Ernie Svenson’s Small Firm Boot Camp and why conferences are important even for those who run in smaller circles.
Jeffery Alford is the owner of and attorney at Alford Law Office. Jeff has tried numerous divorce, custody, civil and criminal cases to final judgment or verdict.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney.
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Jul 20, 2017
From Desktop Search to Video Conferencing: Technology for Solo and Small Firms
In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares, along with guest Todd Smith, cover a wide range of topics, including bar association benefits, outsourcing IT support, and transitioning from large firms to solo practices. While discussing these subjects, they dive into the relevant technology and software that will help your own solo or small firm thrive. This includes full desktop search tools, wireless scanners, and video conferencing software.
Todd Smith is a civil appellate lawyer based in Austin, Texas. He launched the predecessor to Smith Law Group LLLP in 2006 after practicing for nearly a decade with Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney.
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Jun 20, 2017
Top Tech Tools for Solo Attorneys
“Solo” may be part of the title when you’re starting your own solo legal career, but that doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks to JoAnn Holmes about the resources she uses to make her solo law firm successful. Some of these resources include communication tools and automation software. She also shares advice for fellow new solos about allocating resources and not working alone.
JoAnn Holmes is the founder of HOLMES@LAW and a business, tech, and intellectual property attorney.
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May 22, 2017
Running Your Firm with Microsoft
Microsoft products assist lawyers daily in document review and communication. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks to Ben Schorr, senior content developer at Microsoft, about the different tools Microsoft provides and how they lend themselves to a successful law firm. Their conversation includes Microsoft Office 365, OneDrive, and Outlook. They also discuss resources you can use to learn even more about Microsoft products.
Ben Schorr is a Senior Content Developer at Microsoft. He was a Microsoft MVP for more than 19 years and involved with management and technology for more than 25.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Clio, Answer1, PerfectIt, and Unbundled Attorney
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Apr 26, 2017
Treat Your Solo Practice as a Small Business (Because it is)
Law schools are gradually catching on, but not a lot of lawyers emerge from law school ready to start their own business, which is what starting a practice is. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks to Matthew Moeller, owner of the Moeller Firm, about how he started his practice, what technology he’s using, and how his business experience has helped him. He also talks about the upsides and downsides of a shared office space and why he ended up moving to his own suite.
Matthew Moeller is the owner of the Moeller Firm LLC where he represents shipyards, vessel owners and operators, contractors, and other maritime businesses.
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Mar 23, 2017
Diving Into Solo Practice Part 2: More Advice from Experts
Taking the plunge into solo practice can be intimidating. Maybe even downright terrifying. But it doesn’t have to be. This is part 2 of the New Solo episode in which host Adriana Linares talks to Rose-Ellen Fairgrieve, Tony Chiosso, and Albert Thuesen about their experiences running their own solo law firms and advice for those thinking about doing the same. Their tips and tricks range from scanners they use in the office to marketing techniques and social media. Whether you are looking for experience with video conferencing software or finding a solo community, these experts have you covered.
Rose-Ellen Fairgrieve has been a practicing attorney in the public and private sector for nearly 20 years. She has owned Fairgrieve Law since 2013.
Albert Thuesen is the principal of Coit Law Group (CLG), founded in 2014 in San Francisco. CLG is a full service civil practice, focusing on handling litigation claims on behalf of individuals, families, and local business clientele.
Tony Chiosso…
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Feb 21, 2017
Diving Into Solo Practice: Advice from the Experts
Nothing encourages the jump into starting a solo practice than the advice of those who have already done it. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks to Rose-Ellen Fairgrieve, Tony Chiosso, and Albert Thuesen at the Bar Association of San Francisco’s first annual Solo and Small Firm Conference. Together they discuss their own solo experiences, focusing on how they started and what it took to grow as a firm. They also talk about the tech they use, like Google Voice, GoDaddy, and Ruby Receptionists, and the importance of researching these products that could save you time and money.
Rose-Ellen Fairgrieve has been a practicing attorney in the public and private sector for nearly 20 years. She has owned Fairgrieve Law since 2013.
Albert Thuesen is the principal of Coit Law Group (CLG), founded in 2014 in San Francisco. CLG is a full service civil practice, focusing on handling litigation claims on behalf of individuals, families, and local business clientele.
Tony Chios…
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Jan 20, 2017
The Benefits of Unbundling Legal Services
The market is changing for law firms. A majority of clients cannot afford full representation as it traditionally functions. Recently, attorneys have been adjusting or “unbundling” their services to make them more affordable, a process also known as limited scope representation. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares discusses unbundled legal services with Dave Aarons, CEO of Unbundled Attorney, a company that works with attorneys who offer these types of services. In their discussion, Adriana and Dave cover what unbundled legal services are, whether they are accepted by courts everywhere, and the ideal logistics behind law firms that offer these services. They also raise the subject of lowering initial retainer prices and adopting a pay-as-you-go system. The thought is, communicating affordable options to potential clients could be what keeps your clients from walking away from full representation.
Dave Aarons is the co-founder and CEO of Unbundled Attorney, a lead gen…
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Dec 5, 2016
Gaining the Courage to Start Your Own Firm
Starting a new practice can be intimidating and many attorneys never take the leap towards owning their own firm. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks with Cahill-IP, PLLC Founder Amy Sullivan Cahill about her journey and how podcasts helped her gain the courage to start her own firm.
Amy Cahill is founder of Cahill-IP, a law firm based out of Louisville, KY. Her practice focuses on trademark and copyright litigation, advertising review, trademark prosecution, trade secret counseling and litigation, licensing, and transactional matters.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Solo Practice University, Clio, and Answer1.
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Nov 11, 2016
From Big Law to Solo
Deciding to leave a large law firm is a challenging decision and can often leave an attorney questioning what the future holds. It can be even more intimidating starting your own solo law firm during such a tumultuous time. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks with Cade Law LLC owner Nate Cade about his experiences leaving a large law firm and starting his own solo practice.
Nate Cade is the owner of Cade Law LLC, which he started on March 1, 2013. Prior to forming his own law firm, Nate was a partner and the general counsel in a large multi-office law firm and previously a partner for 15 years at one of the largest firms in Milwaukee.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Solo Practice University and Clio.
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Oct 7, 2016
6 Steps to Make Alternative Fees Profitable
Many attorneys are reluctant to try alternative billing methods because they fear that moving away from the billable hour will be complicated and less profitable. Furthermore, lawyers who are interested in billing alternatives often don’t know where to find resources to help them implement such changes in their own law firms. In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks with Vandenack Weaver LLC founder Mary Vandenack about her six simple steps for any lawyer looking to successfully implement alternative billing methods in their law practice.
Special thanks to our sponsors, Solo Practice University and Clio.
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Oct 6, 2016
Implementing Alternative Billing in your Law Practice
In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks with Vandenack Weaver LLC founder Mary Vandenack about lawyers using alternative billing models. Mary defines alternative billing as any way of charging for a law firm's services that isn’t the billable hour and talks about her experiences breaking away from a large firm and starting her own. She shares an interaction with a client that led her to consider alternative fees and explains that a common fear among lawyers when discussing alternative billing is under charging for your services. Mary advises attorneys to analyze their process, break those methods down into pieces, and to then price those pieces accordingly. She provides examples of different styles of alternative billing and closes the interview with an analysis of their pros and cons.
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Sep 1, 2016
Lawyers Using Apple Mobile Devices in Their Practice
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares talks with Adams and Reese LLP Partner Jeff Richardson about publishing his blog “iPhone J.D.” and his tip for lawyers using Apple mobile products. Jeff opens the interview with a brief history of his occupational past and talks about his New Orleans upbringing. He states that his law practice focuses on class action and complex litigation typically representing defendants when they are sued and that half of his work is appellate practice for all sorts of clients. His firm operated on both Macs and PCs at one time but decided to become a PC-only firm in the early 2000s. As a long time Mac user in both his personal and professional life, Jeff started his blog in 2008, focusing on discussing the different ways attorneys can use Apple mobile technology in their law practices and firms. He notes that all tech today is complicated and emphasizes how learning the little things about a device can make people both happy and productive. Jeff cove…
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Aug 2, 2016
CRM: Using Client Relationship Management in Your Law Firm
Client Relationship Management, or CRM, is a strategy implemented in business to maintain effective knowledge about and connections with your current, previous, and potential clients. Using technology, employees are able to nurture relationships with their clients by tracking conversions and setting notifications. But many lawyers, especially solos and small firm lawyers, aren’t using CRMs; they don’t know the potential value of these systems or even what they are. So why should attorneys bother learning about CRMs?
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares discusses CRMs with Michael Chasin, co-founder and CEO of Lexicata, a law firm CRM and client intake software. Michael talks about the foundation of Lexicata and how it has helped many lawyers find and convert leads. He then explains how CRMs can help solo and small firm lawyers with client intake as well as marketing. By touching base with potential clients, we can create a positive, brag-worthy experience. In this way, cli…
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Jul 1, 2016
New Trends in Practice Management
Starting your own law firm can be a daunting task for any solo attorney. What new trends will help you manage your practice and how can you harness available technology to better communicate with your clients?
In this episode of The New Solo, host Adriana Linares speaks with Clio CEO Jack Newton, who shares what he believes are two big trends in practice management. Jack discusses client portals and lists the benefits, such as document management and security, that having a collaborative way to communicate directly with your clients provides. He analyzes the advantages that leveraging this technology gives law firms and the convenience it provides lawyers and consumers of legal services. He also talks about campaign tracking which enables law firms to track their marketing channels and determine what kind of return on investment they are receiving from those endeavors.
Jack briefly touches on the 2016 Clio Cloud Conference and says this year’s event will focus on helping lawyers ta…
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May 25, 2016
Top Tips for Attorneys from the 2017 ABA TECHSHOW Board
As attorneys graduate and head into the legal marketplace, or leave a law firm to start a solo practice, it can be hard to know where to find resources with tips on starting your new career. What are the most important things that a newly solo practitioner should know? What are some best practices for lawyers just starting out in the field?
In this episode of The New Solo, host Adriana Linares talks with the ABA TECHSHOW 2017 Planning Board to provide need to know advice for newly solo attorneys. This year’s TECHSHOW board consists of Barbara Leach Law PL. Managing Attorney Barbara Leach, Avvo Director of Industry Relations Dan Lear, O’Melveny & Myers Senior Manager of Technology and Development Ivan Hemmans, and Downey Law Group LLC. Founder Michael Downey. Michael emphasizes that small firms and solo attorneys should focus heavily on their cash flow. Dan states that legal professionals can view their businesses through three different mediums, the balance sheet, income statement…
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Dec 16, 2015
How Ernie the Attorney Started His Solo Practice
Among solo practitioners, Ernest “Ernie the Attorney” Svenson is well-known for consulting on technology and, specifically, going paperless. But what many lawyers don’t know is how Ernie transitioned from a commercial litigator in a big New Orleans law firm to a tech savvy solo. In this episode of New Solo, learn all about how Ernie’s experience practicing in a big firm and Hurricane Katrina led him to go solo. He talks with Adriana Linares about using technology and automation to lower his overhead for an increased chance of success and, quite frankly, happiness. Adriana and Ernie then discuss the more difficult aspects of transitioning to a solo practice including loneliness, retaining clients, and wanting a paralegal. No longer a practicing attorney, Ernie talks about why he decided to become a technology consultant for other solo and small firm lawyers. If you’re planning to go out on your own, tune in for some tips that might make the difference.
Ernest Svenson, also kn…
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Dec 2, 2015
Sharing Office Space, Equipment, and Employees
In this episode of New Solo, host Adriana Linares stops by the shared offices of Barbara Leach and Conti Moore. Together they discuss the cost savings, benefits, and logistics of splitting office resources. Through mutual trust, compromise, and similar views on work-life balance, these lawyers are achieving the strengths of partnership without losing the privilege of being the boss. Tune in to hear how they did it and why you should consider this practice model.
Barbara Leach is a solo practitioner in central Florida who, after launching her career with a large national law firm, sought a closer connection to her community and greater interaction with clients. She took the leap to establish her own firm in 2011. Since then, the firm has continuously grown, and Barbara finds herself right where she hoped to be: face-to-face with her clients and practicing in bankruptcy, family law, foreclosure, and litigation.
Conti Moore is the founder of small firm Conti Moore, PLLC where she practi…
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Nov 18, 2015
T.V. Advertising: What to Expect
Although television commercials seem too expensive for a solo practice’s marketing budget, they are not! In fact, advertising on T.V. can be a great alternative or addition to an online marketing campaign, as long as it’s done correctly. So what should solos expect with these ads and how can we optimize the return on investment?
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares and Jason Marsh interview Conti Moore, a small firm lawyer with a successful television commercial, about the process and price of creating her ad, airing it, and tracking its success.
Included in this episode:
TV network “spots” and your target audience
Measuring success and tweaking television shows
Slow start and a long term commitment
Production company costs and benefits
Creating fresh content and cycling locations
Customizing your airtime package
Choosing a niche area of law for the highest ROI
Conti’s words of advice from the experience
Conti Moore practices primarily family law and crimin…
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Oct 28, 2015
Automate Your Solo Practice: Part 2
In the previous episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviewed Andrew LeGrand, a lawyer who has a largely automated practice, about Text Expansion and forms to increase efficiency for lawyers. Because automation is such an enormous topic, Adriana invited Andrew back to discuss more in-depth systems and tools to avoid wasting time on menial tasks and improve accuracy, consistency, and professionalism. Does it seem too good to be true?
Tune in for automation suggestions for lawyers at any level of tech-savviness. Topics include:
Web automation to replace support staff tasks
Clio as a practice management program
Integration with Zapier
Consistent labels and tagging for easy categorization search
Doodle calendar that talks to Gmail
Web forums and customer relationship management (CRM)
Google Scripting and Google Apps for Work
How much the tools cost
Forms rule certification
In the end, Andrew emphasizes, just knowing these options are out there is important and powerful.
Sp…
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Oct 19, 2015
Automate Your Solo Practice!
Adriana Linares interviews Andrew Legrand, a solo lawyer who started his practice immediately out of law school using technology to increase efficiency. His tips start with something as small as an autocomplete for your signature to auto filling forms he regularly uses.
Special thanks to our sponsor, Solo Practice University.
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Jun 25, 2015
Using Social Media to Market Your Solo Practice
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares and Jason Marsh interview C. Todd Smith, a small firm lawyer who has used various forms of social media for marketing his practice. Jason Marsh, an online marketing specialist for small businesses and law firms, also give his insight into the importance of social media.
For lawyers launching a solo practice, this podcast will provide a broad idea of where to start with your social media campaign. Todd Smith recommends that lawyers choose one or maybe two platforms to focus on rather than trying to tackle all of them.
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Jun 17, 2015
Effective Online Marketing Strategy for Solo Law Firms
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews internet marketer Jason Marsh about the most effective marketing process for lawyers beginning a solo practice, how much they should spend on a website, and what it means to optimize your business for the search engines.
Special thanks to our sponsor, Solo Practice University.
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Apr 24, 2015
Agile and Lean: Methodologies to an Efficient, Better, and More Profitable Practice
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews John E. Grant, an agile attorney consultant, about what it means to have a lean practice, how businesses have soared ahead of law firms in this way, and things every lawyer can do to add value to their services. Grant, a solo practitioner himself, discusses his move from the business world to the legal world and how he has seen the agile manifesto change the way that businesses work. He mentions ways lawyers can effectively streamline workflow processes and gives some specific suggestions of books and articles to read in order to learn more. Tune in for more details on how to make your clients happy by increasing your practice efficiency.
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Mar 18, 2015
How David Sparks Started His Solo Practice
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews David Sparks about why he decided to go solo, the first actions he took, and struggles he encountered during the process. Sparks’ first steps involved evaluating the potential costs of research, insurance, malpractice, and other legal necessities, and comparing it to an assumed client income. He talks about being a lawyer who uses Apple products and how he chose, or didn’t choose, products like Ruby Receptionists, Clio, Rocket Matter, and Omnifocus. Sparks discusses the importance of marketing his new solo practice and how setting up the business and accounting aspects took longer than he thought it would. If you are considering starting a solo practice, this podcast is a good place to start. Special thanks to our sponsor, Solo Practice University.
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Mar 5, 2015
How Michael Downey Started His Solo Practice
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews legal ethics attorney Michael Downey about the solo practice he started in 2015. Together they discuss why he decided to leave a big law firm to start his own law practice, the decisions he had to make, and how he dealt with everything from choosing technology to successfully parting ways with his old firm. Downey talks about the research he did with different practice management tools, the process of deciding on a name and buying relevant URLs, and his decision to use Apple computers in his practice. Although he already had a client base that he believed would stay with him, he marketed his new business by collecting articles he had written, developed his mailing list, and updated his LinkedIn account. For those struggling with the decision of starting a solo practice, Downey’s experience is a useful place to start. Special thanks to our sponsor, Solo Practice University.
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Jan 15, 2015
Legal Research Tools and Tips
Ed Walters started as a lawyer in a big law firm in Washington D.C. In the late 1990's, he was approached by a client asking him to research a relatively new legal issue without using LexisNexis or WestLaw, as they were trying to reduce online legal research costs. His inability to do this set off a chain of events leading him to create the company Fastcase. His story begs the question, are lawyers simply paying too much for online legal research sources? What are some ways particularly solo and small firm attorneys can reduce research overheads in their practice? And when is it necessary to pay for LexisNexis or WestLaw?
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews Ed Walters about his experience starting Fastcase, how it interacts with the bigger legal research companies and smaller startups, and the right steps for solo practitioners to take in choosing an online research source. Linares and Walters begin by discussing the differences between a free resource like Google…
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Dec 18, 2014
Strategic Partnerships and Referral Networks
There are numerous sources in the legal world claiming that lawyers need to work on building and growing their networks in order to gain referrals. But with hundreds of connections, how is a solo lawyer able to build and develop proper relationships with everyone? Maybe lawyers should be thinking about the quality of their connections rather than the quantity. What should a solo or small firm attorney do to build a good referral network?
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews family law practitioner Lee Rosen about forming strategic partnerships and setting up a basic referral network. Rosen actually rejects both of those phrases and explains that he thinks of an effective referral network as a collection of close friends who provide value to each other in multiple ways. Lawyers should build relationships with around twenty other lawyers and people in different professions who have the opportunity to provide referrals. Also, he says, you need to LIKE these people, bec…
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Nov 5, 2014
Setting Legal Fees in Your Law Practice
When starting your solo practice, figuring out how to price your services can be very difficult. Many new lawyers undercut the market or undervalue what they have to offer. Additionally, in this emerging market of flat fees, they have to consider their strategy for setting legal rates. When charging for hourly legal services, what should be the lowest starting rate? How should a solo lawyer structure a system for flat fee pricing? What are the signs of undercharging and how should attorneys convey the value of their services to the client?
On this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews attorney Ted Waggoner about how lawyers should set their fees, hourly versus flat fee pricing, and educating clients about the true value of their legal services. When starting a new practice, Waggoner explains, lawyers should set their fees based on expenses, investment, the client's budget, and, of course, profit. Each attorney will adjust these fees based on mistakes and experience. However,…
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Oct 13, 2014
Practice Management Essentials for $4,000 or Less
These days there are so many options for legal practices that lawyers starting a solo practice often get carried away and spend too much. It is difficult to distinguish the essential hardware and software needs from supplementary products. With everything solo lawyers have to think about, technology questions can seem overwhelming, expensive, and important. Is a Mac or a PC better for a practice? Is it necessary to have a printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine? What about all of the software products available for practice management, document management, email, or a PDF editing processor? Most lawyers with their own practice could use a break down of necessary technology products and how much to spend on each.
On this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews the Lawyerist CEO and Editor in Chief, Sam Glover, about practice management essentials, what hardware and software to buy when starting a solo practice, and how much to spend. Glover discusses laptops and desktops, Mac…
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Sep 11, 2014
Choosing Your Specialty: Areas of Law for the Successful Solo Practitioner
Many lawyers want to start their solo careers as a general practice, thinking that they will attract more clients if they offer a variety of services. However, when it comes to marketing strategy, lawyers who focus on one practice area create a stronger brand and are more successful in the long run. The right solo practice could involve a personal interest, fill a hole in the market, and/or provide previously unavailable online or unbundled services. The important thing is for every lawyer starting a solo practice to create a business plan and do research before choosing a field of law. Recent law school graduates and lawyers leaving big practices alike need to find their niche area of law for success.
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews law practice management professor Stephanie Kimbro about lawyers starting solo practices, areas of law to consider going into, how to start market research for a business plan, and ways to differentiate a practice from the existing…
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Aug 12, 2014
Client Intake: Best Practices and Procedures
As any solo lawyer knows, taking a new client is not simply shaking a hand and signing a checkbook. After marketing and selling legal services, there are still several necessary steps before beginning work. A conflict check must be done, the client's data and information need to be gathered, and a retainer engagement letter must be drafted and sent off. Many new solo practitioners think they will be able to remember every matter and deal with situations as they come, but it is much more efficient to have a data management tool and systematic habits in place when dealing with clients.
On this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews attorney Chad Burton about best practices for client intake and how things differ in a virtual law firm model. He emphasizes that particularly solo and small firm lawyers should remember that a conflict check must be done before payment is accepted. Then a retainer engagement letter is drafted that ought to contain fee structure, disclaimer, shortene…
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Jul 21, 2014
What You Should Consider When Starting A Solo Law Practice
When starting a solo or small practice, a lawyer has to consider many new business details that were unnecessary while working for a larger firm. How do taxes differ for sole proprietorships versus other entity types? What are the necessary business or trust accounts for each individual lawyer? What is the most important thing to consider when paying taxes and acquiring insurance? Any lawyer who is starting a solo practice, confused by the options and information available, can make costly mistakes.
In this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews Reba Nance and Bill Gibson, two experts in the field of law practice management, about what steps lawyers can take in the beginning of their solo practice to optimize their chance of success. Nance recommends several bank accounts with clear paper trails that are reconciled regularly, acquiring malpractice insurance even if the state does not require it, and not taking shortcuts when pressured by clients. Gibson encourages lawyers who…
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Jun 25, 2014
Staying Motivated While Starting A Solo Law Practice
Starting a solo law practice can be invigorating, frightening, and exciting at first. But after the adrenaline and excitement of starting a solo practice fades, how do lawyers stay motivated? Unlike working in a large firm, an attorney's personal life and solo practice become interconnected, causing unique and often unexpected challenges. Many lawyers experience inner turmoil that requires a different resolution than a well thought-out business plan or financial planning.
On this episode of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews consultant Susan Cartier Liebel about how to stay motivated throughout the process of starting a solo law practice. Liebel encourages lawyers to make concrete life goals and envision where they might be 5, 10, and 15 years in the future, both professionally and personally. She recommends integrating personal interests and lifestyle with professional practice, resulting in a support system and a trusting client base. According to Liebel, there are three emotional…
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May 30, 2014
Starting Your Own Law Firm: Conversation with Jay Foonberg
Starting a law firm from scratch can be a daunting endeavor. With a down economy, limited budget, and not enough clients, solos can have a tough time breaking into the market. In her debut as the new host of New Solo, Adriana Linares interviews Jay Foonberg, the most influential author on the subject of starting your own law firm. Together they discuss where to find clients, how to get paid, and recommended practice areas. Tune in to learn how attorneys stay relevant with new technology, why it's important to train assistants, and how to sustain a long happy marriage.
Jay Foonberg is the author of How To Start and Build a Law Practice (5th edition) and was a practicing attorney in Beverly Hills for over 40 years. He served in the ABA House of Delegates, is on the Advisory Council for the ABA Commission on Evaluation of the Rules of Professional Conduct, and was a founder of the ABA Law Practice Management Section. In addition to being an author of three other important books (all avai…
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Oct 24, 2012
Starting Your Own Bankruptcy Practice
Did you ever think of starting your own bankruptcy practice? New Solo host and solo practitioner, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher chats with Attorney Christina M. Turgeon, about some of the pros and cons of opening a bankruptcy practice, professional organizations a new lawyer should join when starting a bankruptcy law practice and important resources that would assist a new bankruptcy law practitioner.
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Jul 26, 2012
What Should Solos Be Charging?
Are you confused about what to charge your clients? New Solo host and solo practitioner, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher talks to Attorney Jeremy Byellin, from Byellin Law, PLLC, about how a solo can determine how much to charge, the Laffey Matrix, the pros and cons of charging flat rates to clients and offers advice on how to communicate fees during the initial client meeting.
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Jun 25, 2012
The Path to Becoming a Solo Practitioner
New Solo host and solo practitioner, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, spotlights solo attorney Carl Irace and his path to becoming a successful solo practitioner. Carl discusses his career as an Assistant District Attorney in New York City and explains the challenges of moving from the public to the private sector. Carl also gives tips for marketing solo practices in small markets.
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May 18, 2012
Turn Your Solo Practice into a Highly Utilized Business
Looking to get your solo practice off the ground but aren’t sure how? Learn about the tools you need to turn your solo practice into a highly utilized business when New Solo host and solo practitioner, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, talks to Alex Vega ,a law firm consultant with The Vega Firm. Alex shares his great insight on the basic human skills a lawyer needs for a successful practice, how a solo can develop an effective word of mouth campaign and the importance of a realistic marketing plan.
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Apr 30, 2012
Solos, Structured Settlements, & Medicare Set Asides
Solo attorneys need to know what is happening in the structured settlement industry for a more successful practice. New Solo host, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner looks to the experts, Ringler Associates Consultant Peter Early, and Vincent Polinsky, Director of Operations at Ringler Medicare Solutions, to explain the evolving role of the structured settlement consultant today. Hear the discussion about the advantages of a Medicare Set-Aside, and the benefits overall to your client’s settlement.
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Mar 30, 2012
It’s a Blog Eat Blog World: Legal Blogs and the Solo Practitioner
Are you looking to start your own blog but don’t know where to begin? New Solo host, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner and the most recent Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association joins legal blogger, legal technology guru and co-host of Legal Talk Network’s Lawyer2Lawyer, Attorney Bob Ambrogi, to offer tips to solos on starting your own blog. Bob talks about everything from which platform is best, to what type of information you should contribute as a blogger, to how to promote your blog and stand out from the others.
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Feb 28, 2012
Helpful Tips for Women Solo Practitioners
New Solo host, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner and the most recent Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association is joined by Attorney Melissa Conner, from the Conner Law Offices out of Boston, Massachusetts, to spotlight women solos. Melissa shares her recommendations on everything from which organizations female attorneys can join when first starting their office, to the benefits of a women’s bar association to how to find a mentor.
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Jan 31, 2012
How Pro Bono can be a market strategy for Solos and Law Students
Solos and Law Students-have you considered Pro Bono as an investment? It can expand your client base and knowledge, open doors for employment and networking, and enrich your standing in the community. New Solo host, Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner and the most recent Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association discusses with Attorney Luz Herrera, Assistant Professor of Law at the Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, California how she used Pro Bono to build her practice and strengthen her community.
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Dec 29, 2011
Blogging, Branding & Marketing for Solos
New Solo host, Attorney Kyle Guelcher, a solo practitioner and the most recent Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association, joins Frank A. Cseke, a Fort Collins, Colorado-based attorney and founder of the blog, The Solo Lawyer, to discuss some hot topics in the solo attorney community. Kyle & Frank take a look at the power of blogging, and a host of other topics including: marketing, rainmaking, "good" clientele and taking a Zen approach to the law.
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Nov 29, 2011
How Solos Can Build an International Law Practice
Are you looking to build your international law practice? New Solo host, Attorney Kyle Guelcher, a solo practitioner and the most recent Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association, joins Attorney Charles Whittier from the Whittier Law Firm, to talk about how solo attorneys can develop international law as a private practice area. Charles shares his insights on how a new lawyer can build an international law practice, avoid controversy in international advertising, and the risks and benefits of practicing international law.
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Oct 27, 2011
Using Technology to Provide Better Client Service
Looking for innovative, practical solutions to improve client services? New Solo host, Attorney Kyle Guelcher, a solo practitioner and the most recent Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association, joins Catherine Sanders Reach, Director at the American Bar Association's Legal Technology Resource Center, to highlight the many ways you can use technology to provide better client service. Catherine discusses Google tools and resources, information about credit card transaction services for lawyers, programs that would allow a client to "log in" and see the status of their case, and much more.
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Sep 30, 2011
Building your Client Portfolio
Want to know how you can build your client portfolio? New Solo host, Attorney Kyle Guelcher, a solo practitioner and Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association, joins marketing expert, Richard DeLuca, Principal of MarketerAtLaw.com, to offer tips on how to build a solid client base. Rich talks about the approach new lawyers should take if attending a conference, the importance of blogging and search engine optimization (SEO) and how a new lawyer can stay motivated when the phone is not ringing.
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Aug 31, 2011
New Lawyers and Business Etiquette
Online profiles and posts, email and smartphone etiquette, courtroom attire and socializing with co-counsel - what to do? These are just some of the areas of interest and concern for new lawyers in an ever changing legal business environment. New Solo host, Attorney Kyle Guelcher, a solo practitioner and Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association taps the expertise of Donna Gerson, attorney, frequent speaker and author of several books on legal career topics including Choosing Small, Choosing Smart, Building Career Connections and The Modern Rules of Business Etiquette as they discuss best practices and how to avoid making that new lawyer type of mistake.
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Jul 29, 2011
Navigating Bar Associations
Are you looking to get more actively involved in your Bar Association? In this July edition of New Solo, host Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner from Springfield, MA and Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association, is joined by Scott Heidorn, an associate in the Boston office of Campbell Campbell Edwards & Conroy, to talk about how young lawyers can utilize bar associations for career advancement. Kyle and Scott discuss why a young lawyer would want to join a bar association, how to "give back" to the community through a bar association and take a look at some resources that bar associations offer to help bridge the learning gap from law school theory to actual lawyering.
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Jun 29, 2011
Successfully Manage Legal Clients
Good clients are essential to any growing business. As a lawyer, what is the best way to manage your clients? In this June edition of New Solo, host Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner from Springfield, MA and Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association is joined by solo attorney, Paul E. Mawn, Principal at The Law Office of Paul E. Mawn Jr., out of Newington, CT, to talk about how to conduct an initial client meeting, discuss fees with potential clients and how to best communicate with existing clients.
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May 26, 2011
Alternative Law Office Arrangements
How do you create a successful virtual law practice? In this May edition of New Solo, host Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner from Springfield, MA and Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association welcomes Attorney Andrea J. Hable, to talk about her unique practice. Andrea discusses her alternative office arrangements, harnessing technology, dual admittance, differing fee structures and much more.
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Apr 12, 2011
A Generation Y Solo and the Micro Law Office
What steps should you take to have a successful micro law office? In this edition of New Solo, host Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner from Springfield, MA and Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association, welcomes Gen Y Solo, Attorney Rachel Rodgers, owner and principal attorney at Rachel Rodgers Law Office, to discuss starting a Spartan overhead, sharply focused law office - the micro law office. Kyle and Rachel talk about the advantages of a micro law office compared to a "traditional" office, essential pieces of technology for any micro firm, and how social media plays a role in the success of a micro firm.
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Mar 9, 2011
A Solo Practitioner’s Unfair Marketing Advantage: Social Media
How can a solo attorney effectively use social media? In this edition of New Solo, host Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner out of Springfield, MA and Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Massachusetts Bar Association, welcomes Attorney Carolyn Elefant, to take a look at a solo practitioner’s unfair marketing advantage when it comes to social media. Carolyn talks about her book with Attorney Nicole Black, Social Media for Lawyers, The New Frontier, about why a new lawyer would want to invest resources in social media, how to find online potential clients and turn them into real world clients and ethical issues a practitioner should consider when using social media.
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Feb 4, 2011
Transitioning from Law Student to Lawyer
In this edition of New Solo, host Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner out of Springfield, MA and chair of the Massachusetts Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, welcomes Attorney Ursula Furi-Perry, Professor from the Massachusetts School of Law, to focus on transitioning from law student to lawyer. Kyle and Ursula take a look at the big transition into law practice, getting and keeping a job and networking beyond the resume and your great uncle’s advice!
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Jan 4, 2011
New Lawyer: New Solo
So you’re hanging a shingle, now what? In this debut edition of New Solo, host Attorney Kyle R. Guelcher, a solo practitioner out of Springfield, MA and chair of the Massachusetts Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, welcomes Attorney Gabriel Cheong, the principal attorney of Infinity Law Group LLC, to talk about some of the things to do after you have started your law firm - networking, rainmaking and generating revenue and how to keep track of all those small business issues.
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