The Neglected Stepchildren
Strategic planning often leaves some practice groups feeling left behind. This article explores the six stages of resistance—and how law firm leaders can turn jealousy into synergy for long-term success.
The Luge Strategy: Surviving as a Commodity Practice in a Business Firm
A recent New Jersey ethics opinion could unlock new possibilities for law firms to spin off underperforming or cost-sensitive practices like insurance defense into profitable subsidiaries—offering a strategic alternative to the traditional ‘firm within a firm’ approach and potentially reshaping the landscape of law firm mergers.
Emergency Strategies
When crisis strikes, law firms often reach for quick fixes—but true emergency strategies are rare and must be used wisely. This article explains how to know when it’s time to act decisively to save the firm—and when to keep your eye on the long-term future.
The Big Partnership Tent
Law firm strategy often falters when partners’ core motivations—profit, lifestyle, professional fulfillment, or societal impact—pull in different directions. True growth comes when firms align around a shared vision and focus on external market opportunities, rather than internal compromises that please no one.
Should Firm Cultures Merge?
Merging law firm cultures can make or break a merger’s success. This article explores when to blend cultures, when to preserve differences, and how to create a unified firm without losing what makes each office thrive.
Evaluating Merger Opportunities: A Managed Process
Law firm mergers often hinge on gut instinct, but the balanced scorecard offers a structured way to evaluate opportunities. By weighing profitability, values, capabilities, and assets, firms can make smarter decisions about when two plus two truly equals five.
The Perfect Need Not Be the Enemy of the Good
While few law firm mergers are flawless, most ultimately succeed — not just through increased profits but by boosting partner morale, consolidating leadership, and uncovering new opportunities. The real question is whether firms can embrace the patience required for long-term gains without chasing the “perfect” merger that may never come.
When Providence Knocks
With law firm mergers on the rise, the real challenge isn’t just courting potential partners—it’s keeping your top talent from being poached. Learn how proactive leadership and genuine appreciation can make your stars poacher-proof.
Marketing in a Recession
In a downturn, traditional marketing may fall flat. Law firms must shift focus from chasing new clients to deepening existing relationships, cutting fluff, and sharpening their business development skills. Now’s the time to go back to basics — and refocus the entire team on what really matters.
Taking Advantage of a Recession
While many law firms brace for economic downturns by playing defense, others seize the moment to reinvent, streamline, and dominate. From shifting practice focus to strategic consolidation, this playbook reveals seven bold moves that can turn recession into opportunity.