Last April, I took a professional leap of faith and launched a new civil litigation boutique. In a few short months, it has already proved to be the most personally rewarding decision of my career. To claim “success” is premature…
Administering Special Needs Trusts
Many families seek to protect the resources of a loved one with special needs through the creation of a Special Needs Trust (SNT). A properly drafted SNT allows the beneficiary to avoid wealth depletion through access to free and low…
Nationally-Recognized Legal Tech Trainer and Local Judge/Former Solo Attorney to Keynote Solo and Small Firm Conference in February
Come one, come all! Attend the Solo & Small Firm Section’s first Annual Conference at BASF on February 9, 2017, from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Solo & Small Firm Section represents thousands of attorneys in the community,…
Volunteering With the Justice & Diversity Center Gave Solo Attorney Her Start
The experience I gained while volunteering with the Justice & Diversity Center (JDC) gave me a valuable start to my practice. Before attending law school, I was a commercial real estate appraiser. Although I could have done transactional work, I…
What Hat Am I Wearing? Practical and Ethical Issues for Attorneys Practicing Dual Occupations
Complying with the California Rules of Professional Conduct can be challenging enough for an attorney, but issues can become even more complicated if you are also practicing a dual profession. Engaging in a second occupation may appeal to some…
Networking Tips for the Solo/Small Firm Attorney
If you are a lawyer, “networking” is part of your job, especially so if you practice at a solo or small firm. Whether you like it or not, drumming up business is as much a part of being a lawyer…
Going Solo? Don’t Do it Alone – The Case for Joining a Legal Incubator
Going solo can be a daunting proposition, but it is not without its benefits. For some, the idea of being their own boss is reason enough to take the plunge. For others, the flexible schedule and independence makes practical sense…
Seeking New Solos!
Community Law Practice Incubator Start Your Own Practice − Serve the Community Are you or someone you know interested in starting a solo practice? Apply now to participate in the soon-to-launch Community Law Practice Incubator. The Bar Association of San…
Are Your Employment Policies Up To Date?
As a business owner, there is much to keep on top of. Insurance, office space, technology, cash flow, not necessarily in that order. That doesn’t take into account the actual work of being a lawyer. While you’re busy navigating legal…
Finances & Profitability: Must-Read Resources at the San Francisco Law Library
The San Francisco Law Library maintains a comprehensive Law Practice Management Collection, with publications that detail all aspects of opening a practice—hanging your shingle, billing, marketing, risk management, technology, and more. This post introduces the Law Library’s LPM resources that…
I Just Received Mail From the [IRS, FTB, EDD, BOE]. Now What?
Open the envelope Yes, the tax authority will write again if it is important; nonetheless, generally nothing good comes of waiting. (Beginning this year the Franchise Tax Board will communicate primarily by email. Open those messages.) Read the communication…
Marketing & Business Development: Must-Read Resources at the San Francisco Law Library
The San Francisco Law Library maintains a comprehensive Law Practice Management Collection, with publications that detail all aspects of opening a practice—hanging your shingle, billing, finances, risk management, technology, and more. This post introduces the Law Library’s LPM resources that…