Articles 2021

The author talks about the Ironman Triathlon and compares its challenges to those of a lawyer running their solo practice.

Sole practitioners are often referred to as the backbone of the legal profession. This article talks about the introduction of a mandatory program, a practice essential course, for new sole practitioners. This online module, including practical training and assessment activities, will cover topics such as client service, financial and practice management and professional responsibility.

Back in 2016, Kim Whaley was featured in an OBA article doing exercises and stretches to offset being stuck at a desk for long hours. Kim offered up sensible ways of finding the time to stay fit. The exercises were accessible for everyone who could sit, stand and breathe. This follow-up is more involved, with the intention to create real change for your spine which will improve your posture and your desk performance.

If you are a solo practitioner, chances are you are going to be a highly motivated self-starter. However, you will also be acutely aware of your limitations, as you are often required to work at your personal capacity. We can all use help and encouragement to stay motivated. It’s important to remind ourselves why solo practitioners should be respected by the legal profession and selected by clients in the market for legal services.

No firm is the same, but there are common keys to establishing a successful enterprise uniquely yours while building a solid reputation and stepping up client service. Sparing would-be sole and small-firm practitioners potential missteps or missed opportunities, OBA panelists (at a program co-presented by the Law Practice Management and Sole/Small Firm/General Practice sections) from a variety of practice areas shared what they wish they'd known before setting out on their own.

OBA Solo, Small Firm and General Practice Section Chair, Grant Buchan-Terrell outlines his priorities for the Section this year and highlights what's in store and why you should get involved.

While succession planning may be difficult for many lawyers – particularly practitioners who are older or located in more remote areas of the province – it is absolutely necessary in the interest of the public. Lisa Laredo looks at the recommendations and shares creative solutions.

The story of King Midas is about the tragedy of avarice and contemplates what follows when true happiness is not recognized. Midas was a man who wished that everything he touched would turn into gold. The law firm equivalent is of course the “Rainmaker”. However, too much rain is as bad as too much gold. Midas’ blessing turns out to be a curse.

In this article, Grant Buchan-Terrell, principal of gbtlaw, offers some survival tips for solo and small firms from his 22 years of up and down experiences as a business law boutique practice.