Advice for Lawyers Seeking Office Space

One of your greatest challenges as a lawyer going into private practice will be finding the right office space. The right office space can be the difference between a successful law practice, and a practice that goes belly up after the first twelve months. Here is some advice from an experienced attorney for lawyers seeking office space.

One. An old cliche in real estate is: Location, location, location. And location is just as important for a law practice as it is for starting a retail business or buying your first home. When deciding on location, lawyers should take into account several factors. Perhaps the most important factor is its proximity to the local courthouse. Lawyers who engage in a court-based practice, such as family law or criminal law, will be spending a lot of time at the courthouse. Cutting that commute as much as possible can save you a countless number of billable hours over the course of a full year. It can also save you a good deal of money on gas or public transportation. In addition, clients often prefer to retain lawyers located near the local courthouse. Many don't like to travel very far, and some can't. And the courthouse itself can also bring you a steady stream of clients. Hang around the courthouse hallways for an hour or two in a suit each day, and you will quickly see what I mean.

Two. If possible, share office space with other lawyers. This can have multiple benefits. For one, the space will most likely be cheaper, since you will be sharing areas like the library and reception. Secondly, even when you are slow, you will appear busy to new clients. Thirdly, in addition to space, you can possibly share law books, a telephone system, a photocopier and fax, high speed Internet access, supplies, even some help, such as receptionists and paralegals. In addition, other lawyers frequently have overflow work that they can pass down to you when times are slow. And, especially if you are just starting out on your own, other lawyers can be a valuable resource for answering questions and covering for you at times when you are busy or ill.

Three. Don't get in over your head. They don't call it "overhead" for nothing. It's easy, especially if you have big dreams of unlimited success, to bite off more than you can chew when you are a new lawyer looking for office space. Don't fall into that trap. Shop around. Know what you're getting, and more importantly, know what you are getting yourself into.