6 Tips to Successfully Manage a Law Firm Project Buildout

Advocating on behalf of Advocators 

When we represent a client whose sole practice is representing people who’ve been taken advantage of, we're prepared for a highly interactive partnership designed to protect all parties.  Colleagues who’ve represented law firms in building out their custom office have shared similar experiences with this relationship.  

We’ve come to expect our lawyer clients to remain highly engaged with all aspects of the project.  And that dynamic sets the tone for a mediation-like experience, which could make or break the relationship.  Perhaps you’ve become accustomed to a more hands-off approach, and this level of scrutiny is stretching your communication skills.  Remember it’s a lawyer's job to probe and find nuance in details.  While frustrating, it’s a great opportunity to refine your customization strategy to remain client-focused and adaptable.  

6 Tips to Successfully Manage a Law Firm Project Buildout: 

1. Create custom contracts for every vendor, this provides the client the level of detail that will dispel misunderstanding. 

2. Document everything in a timely manner; take copious notes, provide a summary, correspond quickly, and ask for written feedback.  

3. Determine which decisions they will delegate and which require approval, by who, and within an appropriate timeframe; put their preference in writing.   

4. Deliver bad news fast; the client can manage their expectations about setbacks and feel assured that you’re working to fix it.  

5. If you feel your client becomes too involved, ask to understand their concerns to regain the trust and autonomy you may prefer in managing your project. 

6. Seize the opportunity to observe how lawyers approach contracts and learn how to remain on this side of right in a legal dispute.  

Managing a law firm project build out can be a rewarding experience when you meet to their enthusiasm and precision.  Project managers thrive in demanding situations that require high-level of coordination and communication with vendors and partners, which is what we’re hired to do.  

This detailed work mostly takes place behind the scenes and we’re accustomed to giving our clients essential or milestone updates.  Clients with a law degree will tend to be highly involved, expecting detailed correspondence and frequent updates, they are encouraged by minor details.

Rise to the challenge and you will see great results.