Solo Advises New Law Grads Not to Hang Out Their Own Shingle
Austin, Texas, solo practioner Scott Field has this bit of advice for law grads thinking of hanging out their own shingle: Don’t do it.
Writing for Texas Lawyer, Field says solo practice is difficult even for experienced veterans. “No one else is responsible for bringing in business,” said Field, who has practiced in firms of all sizes. “There is no safety net. There is also no one down the hall to ask questions of or to provide ideas. Although I know lawyers do it all the time, I personally cannot imagine starting my career in that type of environment.”
If it all possible, Field says, new lawyers should find a position that offers on-the-job training. But if that’s not possible—and today’s rough job market makes such jobs hard to come by—Field has some additional advice.
At the top of his list: Keep overhead low. Solos may be able to practice out of their homes, using a virtual office with staff to answer phones and an address for mail delivery. A solo who does opt for a traditional office should try to find a short sublease from an existing firm.
Field also says new solos should network, find mentors, learn more than one area of the law, and schedule time for family and leisure.
