5 Tips for Running a Successful Family Law Practice as a Sole Practitioner

5 Tips for Running a Successful Family Law Practice as a Sole Practitioner

By: David C. Fisher, Attorney at Law 

Running a family law practice as a sole practitioner can be both rewarding and challenging. Balancing the demands of legal work with the responsibilities of managing a business requires a unique set of skills. Here are five essential tips to help you build and maintain a successful practice, with a sprinkle of humor to keep things light.

1. Develop a Strong Business Plan

A well-thought-out business plan is the foundation of any successful practice. It should outline your goals, target market, financial projections, and marketing strategies. Here are some key components to consider:

• Mission Statement: Define your practice’s purpose and core values. Think of it as your practice’s dating profile—what makes you special?
• Market Analysis: Understand the demographics and needs of your target clients. Who are you trying to impress, and what do they want?
• Financial Plan: Include startup costs, projected income, and a budget for expenses. Remember, ramen noodles are a startup staple, but aim higher!
• Marketing Strategy: Plan how you will attract and retain clients through an online presence, networking, and referrals. Think of it as your practice’s social media game—likes and shares matter!

A clear business plan will guide your decisions and help you stay focused on your long term career objectives. Plus, it’s always good to have a plan B (and C, just in case).

2. Invest in Technology

Leveraging technology can streamline your practice and improve client service. Here are some tools and technologies to consider:

• Case Management Software: Tools like Clio or MyCase can help you manage client information, documents, and billing efficiently. Think of them as your digital paralegal—minus the coffee runs.
• Virtual Meetings: Platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams allow you to meet with clients remotely, saving time and increasing flexibility. No more commuting in rush hour—your pajamas are now business casual!
• Document Automation: Software that automates document creation can save you hours of repetitive work. It’s akin to having a robot assistant, but without the sci-fi takeover fears.
• Online Marketing: A professional website, social media presence, and search engine optimization (SEO) can help you attract new clients. Your practice needs to be as visible online as a cat video—everyone loves a good cat video.

Investing in and leveraging technology can enhance your productivity and provide a better experience for your clients. Plus, it gives you more time to binge-watch your favorite legal dramas.

3. Build a Strong Network

Networking is crucial for growing your practice. Building relationships with other attorneys, professionals, and community members can lead to referrals and collaborative opportunities. Here are some networking strategies:

• Join Professional Associations: Organizations like the American Bar Association (ABA) or local bar associations offer networking events and resources. It’s similar to joining a club, but with more legal jargon.
• Attend Conferences and Seminars: These events provide opportunities to learn and connect with peers. Think of them as legal speed dating—find your professional match!
• Collaborate with Other Professionals: Building relationships with accountants, therapists, and financial advisors can lead to mutual referrals. Imagine it as forming a superhero team, but for family law.
• Engage in Community Activities: Volunteering and participating in local events can increase your visibility and reputation in the community. Plus, it’s a great way to give back and maybe score some free snacks.

A strong network can provide support, referrals, and opportunity for collaboration. And who knows, you might even make some friends along the way.

4. Focus on Client Relationships

In family law, building trust and rapport with clients is essential. Here are some ways to enhance client relationships:

• Effective Communication: Keep clients informed about their cases and respond promptly to their inquiries. Think of it as texting your best friend—timely and clear.
• Empathy and Understanding: Family law matters are often emotionally charged. Showing empathy and understanding can help clients feel supported. Channel your inner therapist—listening is key.
• Clear Expectations: Set clear expectations about the legal process, timelines, and fees to avoid misunderstandings. It’s like setting boundaries with a roommate—everyone needs to know the rules.
• Personalized Service: Tailor your approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Think of it as customizing a playlist—everyone has different tastes.

Strong client relationships can lead to positive reviews, referrals, and long-term success. Plus, happy clients are less likely to call you at 3 AM in a panic.

5. Continuously Improve Your Skills

The legal field is constantly evolving, and staying current with changes in family law is essential. Here are some ways to further your professional development goals:

• Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Participate in CLE courses to stay updated on legal developments and enhance your skills. It’s similar to going back to school, but without the cafeteria food.
• Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced attorneys who can provide insights and advice. Think of it as having a legal Yoda—wise and full of knowledge.
• Reading and Research: Regularly read legal journals, books, and articles to stay informed about trends and best practices. It’s like being in a book club, but with more footnotes.
• Self-Reflection: Regularly assess your performance and seek feedback from clients and peers to identify areas for improvement. It’s akin to looking in a mirror—sometimes you need to adjust your tie.

Continuous learning and self-improvement, while setting professional development goals, will help you stay competitive and provide the best service to your clients. Plus, it keeps your brain sharp and ready for the next big case.

Conclusion

Running a successful family law practice as a sole practitioner requires a combination of business acumen, technological savvy, strong networking, excellent client relationships, and a commitment to continuous learning. By following these five tips, you can build a thriving practice that meets the needs of your clients and supports your professional growth. Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication, hard work, and a willingness to adapt and grow. With the right strategies and mindset, you can achieve your goals and make a positive impact in the lives of your clients. And who knows, you might even have a little fun along the way!

Check out NBI’s full array of family law CLE courses here, as well as NBI’s catalogue of law practice management (“LPM”) CLE courses here.

About the Author:

A leader and recognized authority in the area of dispute resolution, David brings an extensive background of problem solving with over 25 years of real-life experience as an insurance adjuster, Trainer, Speaker, and now Lawyer.

David grew up in Tulsa where he graduated from Metro Christian Academy in 1986. He received his Bachelor of Science in Management from Oklahoma State University in 1990. After graduation, David was employed at State Farm Insurance as a Claims Specialist, helping people solve issues and problems with one of their most valuable assets, their homes! David has handled claims, both first and third party, from Florida to California, as well as places in between to assist insured’s in recovering from losses both big and small. Through this experience, David received a real life education in problem solving and working with people at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Recognizing that his passion was helping people in need and the desire to help others resolve their disputes peacefully, David attended the University Of Tulsa College Of Law, where he received his Juris Doctorate. While at T.U., David twice received the Cali Award for Excellence, an honor given to the top student in the class, for his work in Mediation and Arbitration. He was able to accomplish this while still working full time for State Farm Insurance. David now brings this wealth of experience and expertise to his practice in the areas of Mediation, Collaborative Law, Family Law and Estate Planning.

David has performed his post–doctorate study in the areas of Commercial and Civil Mediation, as well as Family Law Mediation. He has also studied in the dynamic field of Collaborative Law which allows families to retain their dignity and to resolve their disputes more effectively without having to go to court.

David is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association, Family Law Section and Estate Planning Section, the Tulsa County Bar Association, Family Law Section, the American Bar association, family Law Section, and Real Property Estate Planning Section, the Oklahoma Academy of Collaborative Professionals as well as the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. David is also included on the Tulsa County District Court list of Mediators.

He also teaches the Helping Children Cope with Divorce class which is a requirement by the Courts for parents to attend in over seven counties within Oklahoma before a divorce can become final. In an effort to help slow down the staggering divorce rate in Oklahoma, David is also trained to teach the PREP class for couples considering marriage or who are newly married and the Within Our Reach program for couples with young children.

David is married to his high school sweetheart, Jennifer, and they have three children. In his spare time, David enjoys portrait and sports photography. Check out his work here: www.dcfisherphotos.com.