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 for the life they want to lead. Others are simply looking for an alternative path to life at a big firm or a non-profit.

Whatever the reason, it is never too early, or too late, to go solo.

But how to get started?

This is the question that is faced by anyone who wants to take that step. One model that may offer a solution to start a solo practice is the legal incubator model.

A legal incubator is designed not only to help new solos build their practice and learn new practice areas but serve the community while doing it.

The Community Law Practice Incubator (CLPI) is one such program put together by The Bar Association of San Francisco (BASF) and the Justice & Diversity Center (JDC). The CLPI program provides new solos a variety of resources to set up a practice, including access to office space in the financial district at BASF, practice tools and resources including networking, attorney mentors and case review and advice from other solo practitioners already established.

The incubator also allows solos to connect directly with pro bono and low-fee clients to put practice skills into action and build a practice. The program allows participants to work with mentor attorneys on their cases and consult experts in specific practice areas too.

The resources provided by CLPI as a legal incubator not only eliminate the need for costly overhead, but provide a new solo  with guidance, support, structure and clients to get through the first year and onto establishing a practice that is sustainable and serves our community.

To find out more visit: www.sfbar.org/clpi

About the author:

Hamid Yazdan Panah is an attorney and the Community Law Practice Incubator coordinator. To learn more, contact Hamid at hpanah@sfbar.org or visit www.sfbar.org/clpi.