CLE Programs

Click here for a complete conference schedule

Do you dream of starting your own practice or “hanging your shingle”? Have the recent law firm mergers and shifts affected you? Are you reevaluating your career and thinking about striking out on your own? Are you a law student with a plan to go straight into your own practice? “How to Start and Run a Successful Solo or Small-Firm Practice” is a comprehensive, one-day seminar that features practical advice on what you need to become a successful lawyer-entrepreneur.

Our faculty of experienced lawyers will provide guidance and insight on every aspect of starting a law firm while sharing practice pointers on growing their own firms.

This lively program, which has been one of the most popular and valuable MBA seminars to date, includes a working, networking lunch for a chance to meet with colleagues who can help get you started. Program highlights include:

The Mechanics of Setting Up Your Firm

Analyzing the costs and benefits;

Going solo vs. associating with others;

Selecting a practice area;

Scouting sources of business before making the move;

Location considerations;

Choice of entity;

Technology;

Office space;

Staffing;

Budgeting;

Financing; and

The proper way to leave your current firm.

The Mechanics of Running Your Firm

Case selection;

Client relations;

Docket control;

Fees and billing;

Accounting and bookkeeping systems;

Bank accounts, including IOLTA;

Discrimination and harassment policies;

Avoiding malpractice;

Malpractice and other insurance; and

Highlights of the rules of professional conduct.

The Mechanics of Marketing

Networking;

Speaking, lecturing, teaching;

Writing;

Getting written about;

Advertising; and

Web sites.

Putting It All Together

Working efficiently and profitably;

Setting priorities;

Taking care of yourself; and

Where to turn if you need help.

**The General Practice, Solo & Small Firm Section Council will host a member reception immediately after the conference. Meet the section council chairs and members in an informal setting while networking with colleagues with similar interests. This event is FREE for MBA members and all attendees at the "How to Start & Run a Successful Solo or Small-Firm Practice" Conference. You do not need to register for the conference to attend.