Elementary, my dear Watson; establishing sound administrative systems is essential
Article Abstract:
The most important goals of a sole practitioner are providing legal advice to clients and having efficient internal management. Firms should have proper organizational systems, including firm accounts. There should be three: a trust account to keep client funds separate, a business account for practice-related receipts and expenses, and a personal account. Record keeping must be systematic and well-documented. Thorough time records will show if goals are being achieved and make client billing easier.
Publication Name: ABA Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0747-0088
Year: 1992
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Home alone; overcome isolation by getting help when you need it
Article Abstract:
Common problems for solo practitioners include inexperience and lack of mentors. With regard to inexperience, solos should be honest about unfamiliarity with a particular problem. They should also develop a network of support by developing professional relationships with more experienced attorneys. It is advisable to seek out different mentors for different practice areas. Assistance can also be obtained from the ABA's General practice Section's Hotline.
Publication Name: ABA Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0747-0088
Year: 1992
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Row with both oars; success for the solo requires mastery of two areas
Article Abstract:
Successful legal practice requires both substantive knowledge and efficient methods of practice management, and continuing legal education (CLE) credit should be given for courses in time management, systems and technology. Sole practitioners are in particular need of such training as they must husband their time and money very carefully. The ABA's Law Practice Management Section can provide lists of reading materials in this area.
Publication Name: ABA Journal
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0747-0088
Year: 1992
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- Abstracts: Road map to diversity; report cites obstacles to 'full and equal' minority participation in the legal profession
- Abstracts: Key libel case goes to trial; ruling on altered quotes is put to test. Libel suit spotlights rap 'hate-speak.' (suit against rap group N.W.A. by television host Denise Barnes)
- Abstracts: Ill. bar girds for tort fight; flurry of lawsuits, competing radio ads frame the looming legislative battle. ABA to revisit thorny issues; abortion and ancillaries
- Abstracts: Some regulations are put on the 'fast track.' Quayle unveils 'justice reform' legislation. Some feel deja vu on the regulation freeze
- Abstracts: Implant documents on CD-ROMs; $25 buys a computer disk containing 15,000 pages of discovery. Boy Scout gun suit rejected; few rulings support plaintiffs' lawsuits for firearm injuries