solo law practice business plan sample

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Key Elements of Creating a Business Plan for Solo Practitioners

For solo practitioners in the legal profession, having a well-crafted solo law firm business plan is essential for long-term success. A business plan provides a roadmap to guide your practice, establish goals, and outline strategies for growth and profitability. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essentials of creating a robust solo law firm business plan for solo practitioners. This comprehensive plan includes market analysis, targeted marketing strategies, and accurate financial forecasting, all tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of running a solo practice.

Executive Summary: Captivating Overview of Your Solo Practice

The executive summary is a critical component of a solo practitioner’s business plan, serving as a succinct and powerful snapshot of the entire document. It condenses the key elements of your business plan into a concise overview that captures the attention of readers and gives them a comprehensive understanding of your solo practice.

Importance of an Executive Summary

As the first section that readers encounter, the executive summary holds significant importance. It acts as a gateway, providing a glimpse into your business and setting the stage for the rest of your business plan. Its purpose is to grab the reader’s attention, highlight the most compelling aspects of your solo practice, and create a positive first impression.

Within the executive summary, you will summarize essential elements of your business plan. This includes identifying and describing your target market, defining your unique selling proposition (USP), and outlining your marketing strategy. By providing a clear and concise summary of these key aspects, the executive summary enables readers to quickly grasp the fundamental elements that make your solo practice distinct and compelling.

Benefits of an Executive Summary

One of the primary benefits of the executive summary is its ability to convey the overall viability and potential of your solo practice to investors, partners, or other stakeholders. It allows them to assess the market opportunity, understand your competitive advantage, and evaluate the feasibility of your business model. The executive summary acts as a persuasive tool, compelling readers to delve deeper into your business plan and consider the opportunities for collaboration, investment, or support.

Furthermore, the executive summary serves as a reference point throughout the business plan. It provides a framework for the subsequent sections, ensuring that the details and strategies discussed align with the overarching goals and objectives outlined in the summary. This cohesiveness and alignment between the executive summary and the rest of the business plan contribute to its effectiveness in conveying a clear and compelling vision for your solo practice.

Market Analysis: Understanding The Legal Landscape

A thorough market analysis is a critical step for solo practitioners when developing a comprehensive business plan. It involves systematically evaluating the market in which your solo practice operates, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of your target market, competitors, and overall industry dynamics. By conducting a comprehensive market analysis, you can make informed decisions, tailor your services, and effectively position your practice to attract potential clients.

Step 1: Identify Your Target Market

The first step in market analysis is defining your target market, considering demographics, legal needs, and competitive environment. Defining specific individuals or businesses needing your services allows focused marketing and tailored service development. Understanding your target market directs efforts and resources efficiently, enhancing your success potential.

Step 2: Analyze Market Trends

To stay competitive, analyzing market trends that impact your solo practice is essential. Stay informed about changes in the legal landscape, emerging technologies, and evolving client preferences. By monitoring market trends, you can adapt your strategies and stay ahead of the curve. Ensuring that your practice remains relevant and meets the evolving needs of your target market.

Step 3: Identify Your Ideal Client

Identifying your ideal client is essential for effective market analysis and service alignment. Unique characteristics and preferences of the client dictate service tailoring and marketing strategies. Understanding the ideal client enhances targeted messaging and content relevance, ensuring services meet their specific needs. This approach improves client satisfaction and fosters lasting relationships.

Step 4: Assess Demand for Your Services

To effectively gauge market demand for your legal services, an in-depth analysis of the market size is essential. Alongside considering the intensity of competition and growth prospects to fully comprehend the demand landscape for your specialized legal services. Insight into service demand enables the identification of unique niches, growth areas, and distinct opportunities versus your competitors. Through this analysis, strategic choices regarding pricing, services provided, and resource distribution can be made to maintain competitiveness and profitability.

Competitive Analysis: Differentiating Your Practice

Conduct a competitive analysis to understand the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors, both direct and indirect. Identify what sets you apart from others and develop a unique selling proposition (USP) that highlights your strengths and addresses the needs of your target market. Differentiating yourself in a crowded legal market is essential for attracting and retaining clients.

Marketing Strategy: Effective Outreach and Brand Building

Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that outlines how you will reach and attract potential clients. Consider various marketing channels such as online marketing, networking, referrals, and community involvement. Create a marketing plan that includes tactics for branding, online presence, content creation, and client acquisition. A well-designed marketing strategy will help raise awareness of your solo practice and generate a steady flow of potential clients.

Organizational Structure: Building an Efficient Practice

Consider the organizational structure of your solo practice. Define roles and responsibilities, including support staff or virtual assistants. Create an organizational chart to visualize the structure and ensure you have the necessary resources to run your practice smoothly. Additionally, outline your legal structure (e.g., sole proprietorship or professional corporation) and any regulatory requirements.

Financial Projections: Ensuring Financial Health

Develop financial projections that outline your expected revenue, expenses, and cash flow. Consider factors such as operating costs, pricing strategies, and billing practices. Estimate your potential client base, average case value, and projected growth. This will provide a clear understanding of your practice’s financial health and help you make informed decisions to ensure profitability and sustainability.

Effective Law Firm Incubation Services from Legal Soft

Creating a business plan is a critical step for solo practitioners in the legal industry. It provides a roadmap to navigate the complexities of running a successful practice, attracting potential clients, and achieving long-term growth. 

By incorporating market analysis, marketing strategies, and financial projections, solo practitioners can establish a strong foundation for their legal journey. Remember, a well-crafted business plan is not only a document but also a dynamic tool that guides your decisions and actions as a solo practitioner.

At Legal Soft, we understand the unique challenges faced by solo practitioners in the legal industry. That’s why we offer law firm incubation services , including guidance and support in creating a comprehensive business plan tailored specifically for solo practitioners. 

Book a demo here to get started on creating a business plan that sets you on the path to solo practice success.

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Solo Law Practice Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Joy Nwokoro

Home » Business Plans » B2C Sector

A solo law practice is a type of legal business structure where a single lawyer operates and manages their law firm independently.

In this setup, the lawyer is solely responsible for all aspects of the practice, including legal work, client management, administrative tasks, marketing, and business development. Solo practitioners can focus on a specific practice area or offer a range of legal services based on their expertise.

Some choose to specialize, while others prefer to provide general legal services to a broader client base. Some solo practitioners may eventually decide to expand their practice by hiring associates or forming partnerships. This can lead to growth in the business and the ability to handle more complex cases.

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Steps on How to Write a Solo Law Practice Business Plan

Executive summary.

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC is a distinguished legal firm based in Detroit, Michigan, dedicated to providing comprehensive legal solutions to individuals and businesses across a wide range of practice areas. Founded by John Justin, an accomplished attorney with a proven track record, our firm is committed to delivering personalized, efficient, and effective legal services tailored to the unique needs of our clients.

As we continue to build our reputation as a trusted legal partner in Detroit, John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC aims to expand its practice areas, increase community engagement, and potentially explore opportunities for strategic partnerships to enhance our service offerings.

Company Profile

A. our products and services.

At John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC, we offer a diverse array of legal services, including but not limited to:

Civil Litigation: Skilled representation in civil disputes, ensuring the protection of our client’s rights and interests.

Business Law: Expert guidance in business formation, contracts, transactions, and general counsel services.

Family Law: Compassionate support in family-related matters, including divorce, child custody, and spousal support.

Real Estate Law: Proficient assistance in real estate transactions, property disputes, and landlord-tenant matters.

Estate Planning: Tailored estate planning strategies to secure our clients’ legacies and provide for their loved ones.

Personal Injury: Aggressive advocacy for individuals who have suffered personal injuries due to negligence.

b. Nature of the Business

Our solo law practice business will operate the business-to-consumer and business-to-business model.

c. The Industry

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will operate in the legal services industry.

d. Mission Statement

At John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC, our mission is to provide unwavering dedication to our client’s legal needs through personalized, compassionate, and expert legal counsel. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and excellence in every case we handle.

Our aim is to not only deliver favorable outcomes but to also build enduring attorney-client relationships founded on trust, understanding, and exceptional service.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision at John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC is to be recognized as a leading force in the legal landscape, known for our client-centric approach, legal prowess, and commitment to justice. We envision a future where individuals and businesses can confidently turn to us for comprehensive legal solutions, knowing that they will receive the utmost attention, respect, and expertise.

f. Our Tagline (Slogan)

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC – “Advocating Your Rights, Guiding Your Journey”

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will be formed as a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

h. Our Organizational Structure

• Chief Legal Officer (Owner)
• Administrative Staff (Contract)
• Customer Care Executive (Contract/Virtual)

i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

• John Justin (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 100 Percent Shares

SWOT Analysis

A. strength.

• Founder John Justin brings extensive legal knowledge and experience to the practice.
• Ability to provide individualized attention and tailored solutions to clients.
• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
• Building strong attorney-client relationships based on trust and understanding.
• Strategically located in Detroit, serving a diverse and potentially growing client base.

b. Weakness

• As a solo practice, resources for handling multiple cases and tasks may be constrained.
• Solely dependent on the founder’s availability and capacity to manage the practice.
• Fewer colleagues within the practice for collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
• Facing competition from larger firms with broader resources and areas of practice.
• Challenges in managing workload and personal time due to the nature of solo practice.

c. Opportunities

• Opportunities to focus on specific practice areas and become a go-to expert.
• Increasing demand for legal services in the Detroit area.
• Opportunities to become involved in local events and initiatives.
• Collaborations with other professionals for cross-referrals.
• Integration of legal tech tools to enhance efficiency and client service.

i. How Big is the Industry?

The solo law practice services industry is a niche segment within the legal services industry hence it is not considered a big line of business.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

The solo law practice services industry, like the broader legal services industry, tends to have variations based on factors such as economic conditions, legal trends, technological advancements, and societal changes.

Historically, solo law practices have experienced both growth and challenges. On one hand, the personalized approach and often lower overhead costs of solo practitioners can be appealing to certain clients, and solo practitioners can offer specialized services or focus on niche markets.

On the other hand, they might face difficulties in terms of competing with larger firms, managing the workload of a sole practitioner, and keeping up with technological advancements.

iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry?

Solo law practitioners are increasingly adopting legal technology to streamline their operations. This includes case management software, document automation tools, online billing systems, and virtual meeting platforms. Technology can enhance efficiency, improve client communication, and reduce administrative burdens.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work and virtual services in the legal industry. Many solo practitioners started offering virtual consultations, remote client meetings, and online document signing. This trend may continue as clients become accustomed to these conveniences.

Solo practitioners are finding success by specializing in specific practice areas or niches. Focusing on a specialized area of law allows them to position themselves as experts and attract clients seeking tailored solutions. Clients are increasingly seeking transparency and value in legal services.

Solo practitioners are exploring alternative fee arrangements, such as flat fees, subscription models, and unbundled services, to provide cost-effective options and predictability for clients.

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

No, there are no existing niches when it comes to solo law practice business because solo law practice is a niche idea in the legal services industry.

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of Your Business in the Future?

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will not sell franchises in the near future.

• Fluctuations in the economy affect clients’ ability to afford legal services.
• Changes in laws and regulations impacting practice areas and services.
• Pressure from larger firms and new entrants in the legal market.
• Meeting evolving client expectations for quick responses and digital interaction.
• Potential for burnout due to the demands of managing a solo practice.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

In the solo law practice services industry, solo practitioners often compete with a variety of legal service providers, each with their own strengths and areas of expertise. Here are some of the major competitors that solo law practitioners might encounter:

• Online Legal Service Platforms
• Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO) Companies
• Virtual Law Firms
• Freelance Attorneys
• Legal Aid Organizations
• DIY Legal Solutions
• Public Defenders and Government Attorneys
• Consultants and Advisors
• Large Law Firms .

ii. Is There a Franchise for Solo Law Practice Business?

No, there are no franchise opportunities for solo law practice business.

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Solo Law Practice Business?

Yes, there are various policies, regulations, and zoning laws that can affect the operation of a solo law practice business in the United States. However, it’s important to note that these regulations can vary depending on the state, and local jurisdiction, and the specific nature of the legal services being provided.

Most jurisdictions require businesses, including solo law practices, to obtain the necessary business licenses and permits to operate legally. These licenses can vary depending on the location and the legal structure of the business (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).

Attorneys are required to be licensed by the state bar association to practice law. Each state has its own bar association, and attorneys must meet specific educational, ethical, and professional requirements to obtain and maintain their law licenses.

Rules for attorney advertising and solicitation vary by state and are regulated by state bar associations. Attorneys must adhere to guidelines regarding truthful and non-deceptive advertising, as well as restrictions on certain types of solicitation.

Attorneys are bound by ethical rules and guidelines established by state bar associations. These rules cover areas such as conflicts of interest, client confidentiality, and professional conduct.

Attorneys often deal with sensitive client information. There may be federal and state regulations related to data privacy and security, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and state data breach notification laws.

Marketing Plan

A. who is your target audience.

i. Age Range: Adults, primarily ranging from 25 to 65 years old.

ii. Level of Education: Generally, individuals with at least a college degree or higher, as legal services often involve complex matters that require a certain level of education to understand.

iii. Income Level: Middle to upper-middle-income individuals and families, as legal services can be a significant investment. However, our practice’s specialization might also attract clients from various income levels.

iv. Ethnicity: This can vary based on our geographical location. Our practice could potentially serve a diverse range of ethnic backgrounds, depending on the demographics of our area.

v. Language: Primarily English-speaking clients, but if our area has a diverse population, offering services in multiple languages could be an advantage.

vi. Geographical Location: Detroit, Michigan, and its surrounding areas. Our primary focus would likely be on clients within our immediate geographic vicinity, but we might also attract clients from nearby suburbs or communities.

vii. Lifestyle: Our target audience might consist of individuals who value professional services and are seeking personalized legal assistance. They might have various lifestyles, including professionals, business owners, families, and retirees.

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Content marketing
• Deliberately Brand Our Office Facility
• Email marketing
• Events and sponsorships
• Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising
• Referral marketing
• Search engine optimization (SEO).

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
• Marketing through Direct Mail.
• Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
• Out-of-home (OOH) advertising – Public transit like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
• Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Affiliate Marketing
• Content Marketing.
• Email Marketing.
• Influencer Marketing.
• Mobile Marketing.
• Social Media Marketing Platforms.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Create a personalized experience for our customers and their families.
• Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
• Create a community for our target market and potential target market.
• Create profiles on relevant social media channels.
• Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
• Start using chatbots.
• Run cross-channel campaigns.
• Use brand advocates.

c. Pricing Strategy

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC’s pricing strategy will consider factors such as the cost of value of service offering, and the level of competition in the market. We will also analyze the competition’s pricing and services to ensure the business remains competitive while maintaining profitability. Here is our pricing strategy:

• Tiered Pricing
• All-Inclusive Pricing
• Ala Carte Pricing
• Move-In Specials
• Long-Term Contracts

Sales and Distribution Plan

A. sales channels.

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will utilize various sales channels to reach and acquire customers. Our sales channels will include both direct and indirect channels.

We will employ a direct sales approach where its representatives proactively engage with potential customers through in-person meetings, presentations, and events. This approach allows for direct communication and relationship-building with individuals and businesses interested in solo law practice services.

We will collaborate with other legal service providers, employers, insurance companies, and non-profit organizations. Building partnerships allows for cross-promotion, referrals, and access to a wider customer base. These partnerships can be established through networking, industry events, and targeted outreach.

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will evaluate and prioritize the most effective sales channels based on their target audience, market dynamics, and available resources.

b. Inventory Strategy

Our inventory strategy will involve managing and tracking the availability of essential office supplies and equipment. The inventory strategy should involve maintaining an adequate stock of these items to ensure smooth operations.

The strategy will also involve setting par levels for inventory, monitoring usage, and ordering supplies in advance to ensure that there are no shortages. We will also implement software systems to automate inventory management and improve efficiency.

Having effective inventory management will help ensure that residents receive high-quality care while reducing waste and minimizing costs for the business.

c. Payment Options for Customers

Here are the payment options that John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Apple Pay and Google Wallet
• Gift cards and store credit
• Credit and debit cards
• Installment payments
• Cash on service delivery.

d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees

As a legal services provider, the concepts of return policies, incentives, and guarantees might work a bit differently compared to traditional retail businesses. Here’s how we will approach these aspects for John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC:

Return Policy

Legal services are typically not products that can be returned in the same way as physical goods. However, we will focus on client satisfaction and ensuring that our clients feel they are receiving value for their investment. If a client expresses dissatisfaction with our services, we could consider offering to review their case and address any concerns they have.

Instead of traditional incentives like discounts or promotions, we will offer value-added services or special consultations. For instance, we will provide a free initial consultation to assess a potential client’s case or offer a complimentary legal resource guide related to our practice area.

Guarantees in the legal field can be tricky due to the complexities and uncertainties of legal outcomes. Instead, we will emphasize our dedication to providing high-quality representation, ethical practices, and a commitment to pursuing the best possible outcomes for our clients.

e. Customer Support Strategy

• Developing a strong customer support strategy is essential for providing excellent service and building lasting relationships with our clients.
• We will provide multiple communication channels such as phone, email, and potentially live chat.
• Set clear response time expectations for different types of inquiries.
• Ensure that all communications are professional, respectful, and easy to understand.
• We aim to respond to client inquiries and messages promptly, ideally within 24 hours.
• Prioritize urgent matters and emergencies, showing clients that we’re there when they need us.

Operational Plan

Creating a comprehensive operational plan is crucial for the successful functioning of John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC. This plan outlines the day-to-day activities, processes, and procedures that will help us achieve our business goals.

• We have defined the specific practice areas we will focus on, outlining our expertise and services.
• We will outline the process of gathering client information, assessing their needs, and initiating engagement agreements.
• We will detail how we will manage cases, including documentation, research, and communication.
• We will provide regular updates to clients about the status of their cases or matters.
• We have an outline of how we will handle document storage, organization, and security, especially for sensitive client information.

a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Solo Law Practice Business?

A typical day at a solo law practice business can vary greatly depending on the specific practice areas, client demands, and the lawyer’s preferences.

Remember, flexibility is key in a solo law practice. Some days might be more focused on client meetings, while others might involve extensive legal research or document drafting. Adapting to the changing needs of your clients and your practice is essential for success.

b. Production Process

There is no production process when it comes to solo law practice business.

c. Service Procedure

• Potential clients contact your practice through phone, email, or your website to inquire about your legal services.
• Schedule an initial consultation to discuss the potential client’s legal needs, gather information about their case, and assess whether you can assist them.
• If both parties agree to move forward, provide the potential client with an engagement agreement that outlines the scope of services, fees, and other terms
• Draft legal documents, contracts, agreements, pleadings, or other necessary paperwork based on the case requirements
• File necessary documents with the court, and attend hearings, trials, or other legal proceedings as required.
• Work towards achieving a settlement or resolution that aligns with the client’s goals and best interests.
• Ensure all legal documents are properly finalized and submitted to relevant parties.
• Prepare invoices for the services provided, detailing the fees and expenses incurred.
• Safely store and retain client-related documents and information according to legal requirements and ethical standards.

d. The Supply Chain

A supply chain is not applicable to a solo law practice business.

e. Sources of Income

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC generates income by offering solo law practice services.

Financial Plan

A. amount needed to start your solo law practice business.

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC would need an estimate of $30,000 to successfully set up our solo law practice business in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all our staff for the first month of operation.

b. What are the Cost Involved?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $1,300.
• Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $1,000.
• Insurance – $1,400.
• Rent/Lease – $10,000.
• Other start-up expenses include commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $10,000
• Furnishing and Equipment – $5,000
• Website: $600
• Miscellaneous: $1,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much will it cost?

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will not build a new facility for our solo law practice business; we intend to operate from a shared office space.

d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Solo Law Practice Business?

• Office Space
• Monthly costs for electricity, water, heating, cooling, and reliable internet connection.
• Expenses for stationery, pens, paper, printers, computers, software, and other office essentials.
• Subscription fees for legal research databases, case management software, document management tools, and billing software.
• Marketing and Advertising
• Fees for bar association memberships, legal organizations, and networking groups.
• Costs for phone services, email hosting, and virtual meeting platforms.
• If you need to travel to court, client meetings, or other locations, consider fuel, parking, and public transportation costs.
• Miscellaneous Expenses

e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Chief Legal Officer (Owner) – $42,000 Per Annum
• Administrative Staff – $24,000 Per Annum
• Customer Care Executive – $24,000 Per Annum

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Solo Law Practice Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Raising money from investors and business partners
• Sell shares to interested investors
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Source for soft loans from your family members and friends.

Financial Projection

A. how much should you charge for your product/service.

Solo practitioners’ hourly rates can range from $100 to $400 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above. Flat fees can vary greatly based on the nature of the legal service. For example, simple document drafting might cost a few hundred dollars, while complex litigation representation could be several thousand dollars or more.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $120,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $160,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $180,000

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1) (Profit After Tax): 25%
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2) (Profit After Tax): 30%
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3) (Profit After Tax): 35%

d. Profit Margin of a Solo Law Practice Business 

The ideal profit margin we hope to make at John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will be between 20 and 35 percent on each job carried out irrespective of the distance covered.

Growth Plan

A. how do you intend to grow and expand by opening more retail outlets/offices or selling a franchise.

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC will grow our solo law practice business by partnering with other solo law practitioners in our city.

b. Where do you intend to expand to and why?

John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC plans to expand to;

• Phoenix, Arizona
• San Diego, California
• Houston, Texas
• Seattle, Washington
• Denver, Colorado
• Portland, Oregon
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Atlanta, Georgia.

The cities listed above have a viable market for solo law practice services, which is why we want to expand to these locations.

The founder of John Justin® Solo Law Practice, LLC aims to exit the company through a merger and acquisition. We wish to merge with a global solo law practice firm so that when the founder retires, the company’s management can be placed in trusted hands.

How to Create a Law Firm Business Plan Aimed at Success

Want a successful law firm? Start with a solid business plan. Our guide covers everything that will help you create a roadmap for success.

A firm exists to serve people—so its business plan must take into account those it aims to help. A law firm's business plan lays out the key pillars that will support a practice, from operational details to marketing strategies to financial projections. Furthermore, it should provide a clear roadmap for where the firm hopes to be in the coming years.

In this blog,  we will guide you through the process  of creating a comprehensive law firm business plan that  will help you achieve your goals . Additionally, in our latest Grow Law Firm podcast, our host Sasha Berson conversed with Omar Ochoa, the founding attorney of Omar Ochoa Law Firm, to discuss the topic of creating a law firm business plan aimed at success. Be sure to listen to another insightful episode featuring Tom Lenfestey, where he discusses crafting a sellable and profitable law firm.

Why Is a Business Plan Important for Law Firms?

A business plan is a vital tool for any law firm to achieve success. It outlines goals, strategies, and the feasibility of business ideas, providing a clear direction and focus for the firm. The plan can be used to secure funding from investors or financial institutions by demonstrating the potential for growth and profitability.

Moreover, a business plan supports decision-making by evaluating the feasibility of new ventures and assessing potential risks and rewards. It helps to manage resources effectively by setting financial goals and tracking progress, ensuring the firm is making the most of its resources and achieving objectives.

Lastly, a law firm's business plan enables growth by identifying new opportunities and developing strategies to capitalize on them. By planning for the future and setting realistic growth targets, law firms can take their businesses to the next level. Overall, a well-developed business plan is critical for success in the legal industry, providing direction and focus, supporting decision-making, managing resources effectively, and enabling growth.

General Tips for Creating an Attorney Business Plan

Building a business plan for law firms is not an easy or intuitive process. By considering the following issues before opening your doors to clients, you have a much better chance of having a stable firm that matches your values and has a clear set of goals.

— Stay Focused

Forming a law firm can feel overwhelming. You have a lot of freedom and can easily get sidetracked into issues that either can wait or do not deserve your attention.

If having a strong law firm website design is important enough for you to include in your plan, you will spend time on that instead of less important matters.

A plan also includes a budget. The process of planning your firm's finances can ensure that you do not overspend (or underspend) as you start your own firm.

The attention to detail that comes from having a plan will help you avoid spreading yourself too thin by focusing on every issue or the wrong issues. Instead, you will maintain your focus on the important issues.

Whether you have law partners or develop a solo law firm business plan, the plan will help you stay focused on your end goals.

— Keep Track of Goals and Results

It is easy to set goals when you  start a law firm and then promptly forget about them.

Your plan will set out your goals and the metrics you will use to determine your progress toward meeting them. The plan should also explain how you will know when you have met them.

For example, you might have a growth goal of reaching five lawyers within two years. Or you might have a revenue goal of collecting $200,000 your first year.

Too many businesses, including law firms, meander on their developmental path. By setting goals and the path for meeting them, you will have guardrails to keep your firm on track.

"If you want to be the number one law firm in the country by revenue right in a 20 year time period, have that be your goal and everything that you do right is in service of that goal. You might not get there, but you're gonna find that you're gonna be very successful either way."

"If you want to be the number one law firm in the country by revenue right in a 20 year time period, have that be your goal and everything that you do right is in service of that goal. You might not get there, but you're gonna find that you're gonna be very successful either way." — Omar Ochoa

— Sort Out Your Own Law Firm Strategy

Developing a clear vision is important for establishing a strategic law firm plan aimed at long-term goals . As Omar Ochoa discusses in the podcast, having very specific milestone visions like where you want to be in five, ten, or fifteen years helps drive the strategy and actions needed to get there.

It's easy to say that you'll run your law firm better. But a plan actually helps you identify how to improve by articulating a concrete strategy. The process of creating the plan will help you pinpoint problems and solutions.

A plan forces consideration of operational details often overlooked. It equates to defining your firm's purpose and then pursuing that vision with purpose-driven strategies and actions. As Omar notes, marrying vision to action through knowledge of other successful law firm models is key to achieving goals.

One area that is frequently overlooked in plans is the inclusion of law firm marketing strategies . Developing this aspect is critical for attracting clients and sustaining growth.

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— Move Forward

You should view your plan as a law firm business development plan that will guide the formation and growth of your firm .

You can review the document periodically to remind you and your law partners of your growth and expansion projections. After this review, you can ensure your growth and expansion remain on track to carry you to your goals.

The review will also tell you whether you need to update your firm's goals. When you started your law firm, you might have been unduly pessimistic or optimistic in your projections. Once you have some time to operate according to your plan, you can update your goals to keep them realistic. You can also update your processes to focus on what works and discard what does not.

The review can provide your projections for what you hope to accomplish and the roadmap for accomplishing it.

Law Firm Business Plan Template

Each of the websites below includes at least one attorney business development plan template:

• Business Plan Workbook
• PracticePro
• Smith & Jones, P.A.
• Wy'East Law Firm

You can use a law firm strategic plan example from these sites to start your firm's plan, then turn the plan into a document unique to your circumstances, goals, and needs.

What to Consider before Starting Law Firm Business Plans

Before starting a law firm business plan, think through a few key issues, including:

— Setting the Goals

Reflect deeply on your firm's purpose. Think about who you represent and how you can best meet their needs. A law firm exists for its clients. As you think about your  law firm goals , think about goals for providing legal services to your clients.

"We continue to try to have the biggest impact that we can because ultimately, in my opinion at least, that's what lawyers are for, is to be able to help people and be able to move us forward." — Omar Ochoa

You need to set realistic and achievable goals. These goals should reflect your reasons for starting your law firm. Thus, if you started your law firm because you expected to make more money on your own than working for someone else, set some goals for collections.

While you are setting your goals, think about how you will reach them and the ways you will measure your success. For example, if you want to expand to include ten lawyers within three years, think about intermediate goals at the end of years one and two. This helps measure your progress.

— Choosing Partnership Structure

For lawyers considering a partnership structure, it's important to select partners that complement each other's strengths and weaknesses to help the firm function effectively.

There are 2 main partnership structure options:

• A single-tier model provides equal decision-making power and liability between partners.
• Meanwhile, a two-tier structure offers tiers like equity and non-equity partners, providing flexibility and career progression opportunities.

While similarly skilled individuals may clash, partners with differing abilities can succeed together. Some attorneys also choose to run their own firm for flexibility. This allows them to leverage different specialists through occasional joint ventures tailored for specific cases, without the constraints of a single long-term partnership. Furthermore, it highlights how the law firm partnership structures impacts freedom and sustainability.

— Thinking of the Revenue You Need

Calculate how much revenue you need to cover your overhead and pay your salary. Suppose your expenses include:

• $2,000 per month for office rent
• $36,000 per year for a legal assistant salary
• $600 per month for courier expenses
• $400 per month for a copier lease

Assume you want the  median annual salary for lawyers  of $127,990. You need $199,990 per year in revenue to cover your salary and expenses.

But revenue is not the end of the story. Your landlord, vendors, and employees expect to get paid monthly. So, you should also calculate how much cash flow you need each month to cover your hard expenses.

You also need a reserve. Clients expect you to front expenses like filing fees. Make sure you have a reserve to pay these costs and float them until clients reimburse you.

— Defining the Rate of Payment

You need to make some difficult decisions when it comes to setting your own fee structure. If you choose a higher billing rate, you will need to work less to meet your revenue goals. But you might not find many clients who are able to pay your fees.

Whether you charge a flat fee, contingent fee, or hourly fee, you should expect potential clients to compare your fees to those of your direct and indirect competitors. Remember, your firm competes against other lawyers, online services like  LegalZoom , and do-it-yourself legal forms books.

Finally, you need to comply with your state's rules of professional conduct when setting your fees. The  ABA's model rules  give eight factors to determine the reasonableness of a fee. These factors include the customary fee for your location and the skill required to provide the requested legal services.

— Making the Cases in Your Law Practice Meet the Revenue Needs

Figure out how much you need to work to meet your revenue target . If you charge a flat fee, you can simply divide your revenue target by your flat fee.

Hourly fee lawyers can calculate the number of hours they need to bill and collect. However, law firm owners rarely bill 100% of the hours they work due to the administrative tasks they perform to run a firm. Also, you will probably not collect 100% of your billings, and clients could take 90 days or longer to pay.

Contingency fee lawyers will find it nearly impossible to project the cases they need. You have no way of knowing the value of your cases in advance. You also have no idea when your cases will settle. You could work on a case for years before you finally get paid.

The Founder of Omar Ochoa Law Firm

Omar Ochoa is a founding attorney with extensive experience in complex litigation, including antitrust, class actions, and securities cases. He has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients and has been nationally recognized as one of the best young trial lawyers in the country.

Omar graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with degrees in business administration, accounting, and economics. He later earned his law degree from the university, serving as editor-in-chief of the Texas Law Review. He has clerked for two federal judges and has worked at the prestigious law firm Susman Godfrey L.L.P. Omar is dedicated to seeking excellence. He has been recognized for his outstanding achievements in antitrust litigation.

Parts of a Business Plan for Law Firm Formation: Structure

A law firm business plan is a written document that lays out your law firm goals and strategies.

For many businesses, a business plan helps secure investors. But the ethical rules prohibit law firms from seeking funding from  outside investors or non-lawyer shareholders .

Your business plan is for you and your law partners. It will help you manage everyone's expectations and roles in the firm. Here is a law firm business plan example to help you see the parts and pieces in action.

— Executive Summary

An executive summary combines the important information in the business plan into a single-page overview. Your plan will include details like projections, budgets, and staffing needs. This section highlights the conclusions from those detailed analyses.

Your executive summary should include :

• A mission statement explaining the purpose of your firm in one or two sentences
• A list of the core values that your firm will use whenever it makes decisions about its future
• The firm's overarching goals for itself, its lawyers, and the clients it serves
• The unique selling proposition that sets your firm apart from other firms in the legal industry

You should think of this section as a quick way for people like lenders, potential law partners, and merger targets, to quickly understand the principles that drive your firm.

— Law Firm Description and Legal Structure

First, you will describe what your law firm does. You will describe your law practice and the clients you expect to serve.

Second, you will describe how your firm operates. The organization and management overview will explain your legal structure and the management responsibilities of you and your law partners.

This section should fill in the details about your firm's operation and structure by:

• Describing the scope of the legal services you offer and your ideal clients
• Restating your mission statement and core values and expanding upon how they will guide your firm
• Explaining your location and where your clients will come from
• Describing your business entity type and management structure
• Detailing your unique selling proposition , including the features that distinguish your firm from your competitors

When someone reads this section, they should have a clear picture of what you will create.

— Financial Calculations

Your attorney business plan explains where your firm's revenue comes from and where it goes. This is where your skills as a lawyer begin to diverge from your skills as a business owner. You may need to learn a few new accounting concepts so you can perform the analyses expected in a financial plan.

You will need a  financial plan  for at least the first year.

If you plan to seek a bank loan or line of credit, your bank may need a financial plan that covers three years or longer.

You will need more than a few rough numbers for a useful business plan. Instead, you will need to estimate your expenses and revenues as accurately as possible.

"Take some financial statements courses, take some managerial accounting courses that teach you how to track costs, how to frame costs in a way that you're looking at the important costs." — Omar Ochoa

You might need to contact vendors and service providers to get precise costs. You will probably need to track your billings with your prior firm to predict your revenues. If you are opening a law firm after law school or an in-house job, you may need a competitive analysis to show what similar law firms earn in your location and practice area.

Some reports you may need in your business plan include:

• Revenue analysis listing the fees you will collect each month
• Budget describing your monthly and annual expenses
• Financial projections combining the revenue analysis and budgeted expenses to predict your profit margins
• Cash flow statement showing how your revenues and expenses affect your cash on hand.

Your cash flow statement might be the most important financial report because it explains how your bank balance will fluctuate over time. If your clients take too long to pay their bills or you have too many accounts payable due at the same time, your cash flow statement will show you when money might get tight.

— Market Analysis

A market analysis will tell you where you fit into the legal market in your location and field. You need a competitive analysis to understand the other lawyers and law firms that will compete with you for potential clients. You can also analyze their marketing messages to figure out how to stand out from the competition.

A competitive analysis will tell you what services other firms offer, how much they charge, and what features help your competitors succeed.

Your analysis should include a discussion about your :

• Ideal clients and what you can do to help them
• Market size and whether you offer something clients need
• Competitors and what they offer to clients
• Competitive advantages and how you can market them to potential clients

You can also develop and hone your marketing strategy based on the benefits you offer to clients over your competitors. Finally, a market analysis can tell you the locations and practice areas in which your firm may expand in the future.

Your market analysis helps you focus your efforts on your legal niche.

— Marketing Plan

A marketing plan sets out the steps you will take to reach your target market. Your marketing strategy will take your market analysis and turn it into a plan of action.

You will start with the results of your market analysis identifying your clients, your competitors, and your competitive advantages. You will then discuss the message you can deliver to potential clients that captures the advantages you have over your competition.

Some advantages you might have over other lawyers and law firms might include tangible benefits like lower billing rates or local office locations. Other advantages might provide some intangible benefits like more years of experience or state-bar-certified specialists in those states that allow specialization.

You will then discuss your marketing plan. A marketing plan explains :

• Characteristics of the target market you want to reach
• What your competition offers
• The distinct benefits you offer
• A message you can use to explain what separates you from your competition
• Your action plan for delivering your message
• Your goals for your action plan, such as the number of client leads, new clients, or new cases per month

Your action plan will include the marketing channels you want to use to spread your message. Marketing specialists can help you identify the best channels for your marketing message and client base.

For example, if you practice intellectual property law, you need to reach business owners and in-house lawyers who want to protect their companies' brands, inventions, artistic works, and trade secrets. A marketing agency may help you create a marketing strategy geared toward trade publications and business magazines.

However, IP lawyers require an entirely different marketing strategy than firms that practice family law. Family lawyers need to market to individuals and will tailor their marketing efforts toward different marketing channels and messages.

Even if you expect most of your client leads to come from referrals, you still need brand recognition for those leads to find you. You should consider a website, basic SEO, legal directory, and bar association listings.

— Your Law Firm Services

You will outline the services your law firm offers to clients. Lawyers with established clients and an existing legal practice can simply describe what they already do.

Any new law firm or lawyer transitioning from other practice areas should consider:

• Practice areas you know and enjoy
• Overlapping practice fields that will not require extra staff, such as personal injury and workers' comp
• Related legal services your clients may need, such as wills and guardianship

By offering needed services you can competently provide, you can gain clients and avoid referring existing clients out to other lawyers.

— Your Law Firm Budget

You should approach your budget as a living document. You will spend more money as you add more lawyers and staff members to your firm. But you can also look for ways to reduce your operating costs through investments in technology services and other cost-saving measures .

Your budget should set out the amount you expect to initially spend on start-up expenses. As you create your start-up budget, remember many of these expenses are not recurring. Furniture, computers, and office space build-outs can last several years. In short, your budget should answer the question, "What do you need to open a law firm?"

It should also lay out the amount you plan to spend each month to operate your firm. Here, you will include your recurring expenses, such as rent, staff salaries, insurance premiums, and equipment leases.

Using your operating budget, you will determine the amount of money you need to start and run your firm. This, in turn, will tell you whether you need to take out a loan or tap into your savings to start your law firm. You will need a plan for paying your expenses and day-to-day costs while your firm gets onto its feet.

Let us help you create a digital marketing strategy and a growth plan

Some Useful Tips on Creating a Business Plan for Law Firm Creation and Development

As you draft your law firm business plan, you should focus on the process. By putting your thoughts down in writing, you will often identify issues you had not previously considered.

Some other tips for drafting your business plan include:

— Describe Both Strengths and Weaknesses

You want to project confidence as you prepare your business plan. Remember, you will use this plan to approach potential law partners, lenders, and merger targets. You need to show that you have a solid plan backed up by your financial projections.

At the same time, you need to remain realistic. Write a business plan that describes your business challenges as well as your competitive advantages.

For example, if you have a strong competitor that has a solid  law firm reputation management  and many of the clients you will target, acknowledge the difficulty of getting those clients to switch law firms. Describe your marketing strategies for approaching and pitching your law firm to those clients.

— Think Ahead

Remember that your business plan sets out the roadmap for both the establishment and operation of your law firm . Think about issues that could arise as your firm grows and matures.

For example, you may have a goal of reaching ten lawyers in three years. But as your staff grows, you may need a human resources manager. You may also seek to handle your payroll in-house instead of outsourcing it to a payroll provider. These changes will create ripple effects throughout your business plans. You will incur costs when you add staff members. You will also realize benefits like increased attorney efficiency.

At the same time, any projections more than five years into the future will likely be useless. Your firm and its clients will evolve, and technology will change how you practice law.

"A law firm that actually does something in the unique way that is an actual measurable advantage to their clients or to their firm." — Tom Lenfestey

— Be Clear about Your Intentions

As you develop your plan, you should keep its purpose in mind. First, you want to outline your core values and goals for your law firm. Set out the reasons why you started your law firm and what you intend to accomplish with it.

"You can't just be doing something because you want prestige. There's gotta be more to that, right? You have to have a purpose that you're following. And if you've got that, that purpose is like gravity, right? You will always be grounded." — Omar Ochoa

Second, you set out your path to achieving those goals. This will include boring technical information like how much you spend on legal research every month. But it will also explain your approach to solving problems consistent with your mission statement and philosophy for law firm management.

— Consult and Update If Necessary

Your plan should guide you as you build your firm. It contains your goals and the roadmap for reaching them. But your plan is not carved in stone.

As you face challenges, you will consult your plan to make sure you approach these challenges in a way consistent with achieving your goals. But under some circumstances, you might find that the plan no longer provides the right solution.

As you work with your firm and your law partners, your goals, processes, and solutions to problems may evolve. The technology your firm uses may change. Your law firm's costs may go up with inflation or down as you realize economies of scale. You should update your plan when this happens.

— Develop a Succession Plan for Your Law Firm

Creating a succession plan for a law firm is essential for ensuring a smooth transition and preserving the firm’s value. Drawing from the experiences of professionals in other fields, it is clear that lawyers often face unique challenges in succession planning. A well-structured exit strategy can help lawyers realize the value of their practice, whether they plan to retire or pursue other interests.

Firms generating over $2 million in revenue typically have invested in systems that make them more attractive and easier to transition. These systems are crucial in creating value and attracting buyers. A transition-based sale, where the selling attorney remains involved for a period, ensures a smooth handover of clients and referral sources, reducing the risk of value loss. Additionally, specialized, systematized, and profitable firms command higher valuations. By investing in robust systems and considering your exit strategy early, you can create lasting value, financial security, and peace of mind, making your law firm more sellable in the future.

Building High-Value Law Firms with Tom Lenfestey, the CEO of Law Practice Exchange

This podcast episode features a discussion between Sasha Berson and Tom Lenfestey about the Law Practice Exchange, a marketplace for buying and selling law firms. Tom, an attorney and CPA, explains how his experience with other professionals inspired the creation of this marketplace. They discuss the importance of building systems to enhance a firm's value, the challenges of succession planning, and strategies for creating a smooth transition and maximizing value during a sale.

"You make more money with hopefully more consistency and less stress. And so that's also part of it is enjoy it. Build to better, right, overall, but build that firm that you want." — Tom Lenfestey

Tom Lenfestey

The CEO of Law Practice Exchange

Tom Lenfestey is an attorney and CPA who founded the Law Practice Exchange, a marketplace for buying and selling law firms. With a background in assisting dentists and CPAs in selling their practices, Tom identified the need for a similar platform for lawyers. His work focuses on helping attorneys realize the value of their practices, providing structured exit strategies, and facilitating smooth transitions.

Final Steps

There is no recipe for creating a business plan for law firm development. What goes into your mission statement and plan will depend on several factors, including your law firm's business model. But this is a feature, not a bug of developing a business plan.

The process of business planning will help you develop solutions to issues you might have overlooked. If you have law partners, just going through the process of creating a law firm business plan can ensure that everyone is on the same page.

As you create your plan, the process itself should provoke thoughts and ideas so you can have a unique law firm tailored to your goals and values. This will help you get exactly what you wanted when you started in the legal industry.

To learn how to expand your client base as your firm grows, check out Grow Law Firm, a professional  law firm SEO agency .

• Easy steps you can take to bring in more clients and up this year’s revenue
• The top website and marketing mistakes holding your law firm back

Find out how much demand there is in your geographical area

To view the calculation tailored to your law firm's needs, please provide your email address

Consult with Sasha Berson, a legal marketing expert , to address your marketing needs.

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How to Write a Law Firm Business Plan + Free Sample Plan PDF

Elon Glucklich

6 min. read

Updated April 3, 2024

Free Download:   Sample Law Firm Business Plan Template

It’s a dynamic time to be in the legal industry. Over 63,000 new attorneys have started practicing in the U.S. in the past decade, and they’re joining law firms that are increasingly leveraging new technologies like AI to work more efficiently.

Owning your own law practice offers numerous advantages, from greater control of your caseloads to flexibility in setting billing rates. 

But running a successful firm requires more than a deep knowledge of the law. 

You need to market yourself, understand potential clients’ motivations and desires, and clearly explain to them why they should hire you over another firm. All of which you can figure out by going through the process of writing a business plan.

• What should you include in a law firm business plan?

Here are a few sections we recommend including in any law firm business plan:

Executive summary

Market analysis, marketing plan, company overview, financial plan.

The details of your plan will vary based on factors like the size of your legal practice and whether or not you need funding

If you’re seeking a bank loan or investment, you’re best off following the traditional approach to writing a business plan . Otherwise, don’t feel bound to writing a full plan. You can just focus on the business plan sections that are most relevant to your situation. 

The executive summary is your opening pitch to the reader. Although it comes first in a business plan, you should write it last, since it distills your entire plan into a concise, one- to two-page overview. 

Start by outlining your law firm’s focus and current status. Are you:

• A newly founded practice
• An established firm seeking expansion
• A multi-location enterprise

Then, summarize your practice areas and target clientele. Describe the issues you’re solving for potential clients, and why they should choose you over competitors. 

Maybe your team has experience that’s relevant to your ideal client, or you offer an appealing fee structure. Anyone who reads the executive summary should be able to understand what makes your law firm unique .

Your executive summary briefly touches on your law firm’s area of focus. But the services section is where you give readers a detailed look at the expertise your legal practice offers, and how you address specific client needs.

What are your core practice areas? Do you represent:

Businesses: Contract disputes, regulatory compliance, employment law issues

Individuals: Personal injury claims, divorce proceedings, estate planning

Simply list all of your legal services. If you run an existing law practice, you can mention your existing client base. Also, specify if your law firm specializes in courtroom litigation, drafting contracts, or legal advisory services.

When writing out your services, consider what sets your firm apart. Maybe you provide free or low-cost initial consultations or specialize in areas underserved by competitors. Any services that might give you a competitive advantage are worth mentioning.

Understanding your potential client base is vital. Do you know the size of your market ? What are their characteristics? 

To conduct a market analysis , start by profiling your ideal client. Consider basic demographic information , like their:

• Income level
• Geographic location

Take their life circumstances into account as well. Are they navigating events like:

• Recovering from an injury
• Being charged with a crime
• Running a business
• Planning an estate

Depending on their circumstances, you’ll need to research relevant trends in your area to determine whether there’s a growing demand for the services you offer. 

Document who your competitors are as well. What other law firms might potential clients turn to? Note their strengths and weaknesses and compare them to your own in your market analysis. 

This research will help you develop a unique value proposition—something only your firm offers that you can emphasize in your marketing strategy.

The marketing and sales plan is where you describe how you will stand out and attract clients.

Where are your potential clients seeking out legal information? Common channels for law firms to market their services include:

• Television and radio commercials
• Print and online advertisements
• Company website

You’ll likely want to consider a combination of these tactics. 

But before spending your marketing budget, take some time in your business plan to determine how you’ll position yourself. If you’ve determined your law practice’s unique value proposition , it should be incorporated into all of your messaging.

Say you offer a unique combination of legal services in your market, such as financial compliance services for businesses and high-net-worth individuals. Your marketing plan is where you develop engaging messaging around your services that are tailored to your ideal client and the medium you’re promoting your services on.

Examples could include:

• Hiring a video production team to film a commercial for your legal practice
• Ensuring your law firm’s website is optimized for visibility on search engines.
• Creating pamphlets highlighting your service to distribute at business networking events or places where high net worth individuals frequent, like upscale health clubs or financial advisory offices.

One key point to remember is that the legal profession has specific marketing restrictions, to ensure law firms are promoting their services in an honest, ethical way. Make sure your plans adhere to the bar association’s guidelines .

The company overview isn’t an exhaustive history of your firm’s experience. It’s meant to quickly give the reader an understanding of your background, experience, and the structure of your firm.

Start with the basics:

Founding date: When was the firm established?

Legal structure: Is it a partnership, LLC, corporation, or other structure?

Location(s): List the communities your firm serves

Provide some detail about you and your team as well:

Founding partners: Summarize their legal experience, specializations, and any notable accomplishments.

Key Associates & staff: Briefly outline their roles and credentials

If your legal practice is already established, note any milestones you’ve achieved, such as major cases or community recognition. But even if you’re just starting, listing milestones like securing office space or building an initial client base are worth noting here as well.

Your law firm’s financial plan is crucial to determining if you have a strategy for running a viable business over the long term. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you need:

Sales forecast : Project revenue based on billable hours, retainer fees, contingency cases (if applicable), and any other income sources. Be realistic, especially in the early stages.

Expense budget : List all of your costs, including:

• Salaries and benefits:
• Rent and office expenses
• Malpractice insurance and bar dues
• Technology (i.e. case management software)
• Marketing and client development

Profit & Loss (P&L) : Your income minus your expenses, showing if you expect to be profitable.

Cash flow statement : Predicts when cash comes in and goes out of your business. Cash flows are crucial to ensure you can cover bills and payroll.

Balance sheet : An overview of your law practice’s financial health, listing assets (cash, accounts receivable), liabilities (loans), and equity.

If you’re seeking outside financing to start your legal practice, list startup costs like office build-outs, initial marketing, and technology investments separately from your expenses, since these are areas you’ll be looking to fund with lender or investor funds.

Additionally, be clear about assumptions you’re making when forecasting your revenue streams (case volume, hourly rates, etc.). Researching similar law firms can help you ensure your projections are reasonable.

• Download your free law firm sample business plan

Download our law firm sample business plan for free right now and use it for reference as you write your own plan. You can even copy and paste sections from the sample plan and customize them for your business. Just make sure you’re taking the time to do your own research.

You can also view other legal business plans , or browse the full Bplans library of over 550 sample business plans across numerous industries.

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Elon is a marketing specialist at Palo Alto Software, working with consultants, accountants, business instructors and others who use LivePlan at scale. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and an MBA from the University of Oregon.

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Starting a Solo Practice Law Firm in California

Tips and resources for how to start a solo law practice..

So, you’re an attorney and have decided to branch out and start your own law firm. Congratulations! The decision to start a solo law practice is a big deal, and can potentially lead to a very fulfilling and successful career. Whether you are leaving a firm job, or are fresh out of law school, running your own business may present new challenges that you have not had to deal with before. But with a little guidance and some proper planning, you can hit the ground running, and start building a successful practice.

This article is intended as a general overview and quick reference guide for how to start a solo practice law firm in California. The information here is not meant to be comprehensive, and you should also consult other sources when starting your practice. With that in mind, the following are a few initial key issues that you should consider:

Entity Type

Business name.

• Liability Insurance
• Business License
• Bank Account
• Phone Number

In starting a solo practice law firm, the first issue that you should consider is what type of entity you will form. In California, a solo attorney basically has 2 options for forming a legal practice. They can either operate as:

• Sole Proprietorship, or
• Professional Corporation.

It should be noted that many other states also allow professionals to form their business as a Professional LLC (or “PLLC”). However, that type of entity cannot be formed in California.

Sole Proprietorship

The benefit of a sole proprietorship is that it doesn’t have to be registered with the state, has pass through taxation, and is less expensive to maintain. However, the drawback is that it does not provide any limited liability for your personal assets. This means that if you are sued in connection with your legal practice, your personal assets may be at risk. This exposure can be lessened by insurance coverage, as discussed below.

Click here to read more about sole proprietorships, on the CA Franchise Tax Board website.

Professional Corporation

A Professional Corporation (or “PC”) is a corporate entity for professional services such as attorneys, doctors, accountants, engineers, etc. The benefit of a PC is that it provides limited liability for the owner’s personal assets, and thus more protection than a sole prop. The drawback is that there are more guidelines in maintaining a corporate entity, including meetings, minutes, issuance of shares, and keeping separate finances, bank accounts and tax returns. In addition, the Franchise Tax Board assesses an $800 fee per year for maintaining a corporation.

Further, there is major catch that has a substantial affect on attorneys. The limited liability provided by Professional Corporations in California does NOT cover professional malpractice. Therefore, even if with a PC, an attorney is still personally liable for malpractice. The limited liability of a PC is mainly helpful for other forms of liability, including trip & falls at the office, or other forms of injury incurred aside from malpractice.

Which Is Right For You?

With either a Sole Proprietorship or Professional Corporation, an attorney should have Malpractice Insurance to protect from a malpractice lawsuit. If you are still working out of your home office, need to keep expenses at a minimum, and do not have substantial assets, then you may consider a Sole Proprietorship. However, if you have substantial personal assets you need to protect, work out of an office that clients regularly visit, and can absorb the extra cost and maintenance efforts, then you may want to consider a Professional Corporation.

Now that you have selected your business entity, its time to choose a name. Though this process can be fun and creative, it is not always as easy as it seems.

If you have formed a Professional Corporation, your business name should be something that is applicable to the profession, and that is not misleading, or substantially similar to an already existing business.

Click here to search the database of registered California at the Secretary of State.

Keep in mind that under California law, a Professional Corporation name must also include an ending designation such as PC, APC, or A Professional Corporation. (ie. Smith Law PC, Smith Law APC, or Smith Law a Professional Corporation).

Legal Tip: The naming of a Professional Corporation is governed in part by California Corporations Code section 13409.

Sole Proprietorship & Fictitious Business Name

If you operate as a Sole Proprietorship, you can avoid all business filing requirements if the name of your business, (1) includes at least your last name, and (2) portrays the nature of your business (ex. John Smith Law, Smith Law, Smith Legal, or The Law Offices of John Smith.)

However, if a Sole Proprietorship is operated under a name that does not include the owner’s last name or portray the nature of the business, the owner must file a Fictitious Business Name Statement (aka “DBA”) in the county of the firm’s principal place of business. A Fictitious Business Name is also required if the name suggests the existence of additional owners (ex. Smith Company, Smith & Sons, Smith & Associates).

Click here to read more about fictitious business names, on the CA Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development website.

Legal Tip: The filing of a Fictitious Business Name is governed by the California Business & Professions Code section 17900.

Name Cannot be Too Similar to an Existing Business

Once you determine what you can legally name your business, the next step is to determine what name is actually available. If your name is John Smith you might technically be able to name your firm Smith Law under California law, but due to the popular nature of the name, there is likely already a person or company doing business as Smith Law.

If you attempt to register a name that is too similar to an existing one, the Secretary of State will likely reject the application. If you operate under a name that is too similar to an existing one, even of that business did not register its name, you potentially open yourself up to the risk of trademark or trade name infringement.

When in doubt, you should try to select a name that is appropriate, available and unique. This phase of the naming process can require a little trial and error, and a lot of patience, since your first choice may not be available. In order to select an available name, the following are several advisable steps to take:

• Search the database of California business entities registered with the Secretary of State
• Search the database of Fictitious Business Names registered with the Secretary of State
• Check the USPTO for registered trademarks
• Perform a regular online searching using your favorite search engine
• Check whether the domain name is available

If your name clears each of these, you are probably safe to move forward with your name. But if you find any conflicts, you should assess how much risk you are willing to take on, and possibly consider choosing a different name. But in the end, remember it’s just a name! Pick something that will work, and move on to the more fundamental aspects of your practice.

Professional Liability Insurance

One of the most important aspects of starting a solo practice law firm is securing a professional liability (aka legal malpractice) insurance policy. There are many insurance providers to choose from, and offer different rates and features.

The American Bar Association has a database of carriers categorized by state. Click here for a list of malpractice insurance carriers in California.

Some carriers such as Lawyer’s Mutual, offer relatively inexpensive insurance packages for new attorneys. This allows new attorneys with a solo practice to have proper insurance coverage, while keeping overhead low.

It’s important to have insurance coverage before you actually start conducting business. If you meet with a client, start performing work, and then get insurance, you may not be covered. Even if you have not yet solidified your business entity or name, you should have insurance in place if you plan on meeting with clients or conducting business.

Business Licenses & Permits

Many cities in California require business operating within their jurisdiction to obtain some form of a basic business license. This requirement basically allows the local governing agencies to have a record on file for the individuals and companies doing business within their borders. The tricky part is that each city (or county) may have its own rules regarding local businesses, may have different names for their licenses. Some cities may require a business license, others may require a business permit, or a business tax certificate. Some may not require any filings at all.

For example, all business operating in the city of San Diego are required to file a Business Tax Certificate, within 15 days after they have started doing business.

Click here to file a San Diego Business Tax Certificate.

Depending on where exactly you do business, you may need to file business permits in several different cities or counties. For example, if an attorney primarily does business in San Diego, but regularly meets with clients in the neighboring city of Del Mar, they may be required to file for a Del Mar business license as well.

Click here to file a Del Mar Business License.

This list is not intended to be comprehensive. Continuing with San Diego as an example, additional licenses may also be required for areas like Coronado, Carlsbad, Encinitas, El Cajon, etc. If you are doing business in California, you should determine all cities and areas that you will be conducting business, and obtain all necessary permits and licenses for those areas.

Bank Account & Trust Account

As a solo practitioner you will likely be receiving money on your clients’ behalf, whether from your clients directly, or from other third parties in connection with a legal matter. Under California law, any money received or held on behalf of your client must be held in trust, separate and apart from the business’s finances.

A common banking structure is to maintain a trust account (to receive and hold all client related funds), and an operating account (for the firm’s finances). Once the trust funds have been earned through legal work, or otherwise become payable to your firm, the attorney may then transfer the funds from the trust to the operating account, and the funds then belong to the firm.

There are many banking institutions throughout California that offer trust and operating accounts. Trust accounts (aka IOLTA accounts) are typically free, with no cost to maintain. However, operating accounts will typically have a minimum balance requirement, and if that minimum is not met, the bank will typically charge a monthly maintenance fee. The minimum balance amount varies depending on the bank, but typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. And the monthly service charges also vary, but can range from $5 to $30 per month. Some banks will also waive the monthly service fee for a few months while you get up and running.

Some banks, such as the San Diego based Torrey Pines Bank, specifically market to lawyers, and provide a host of services specifically for lawyers. But larger banking companies, though they have more established services, typically have less flexibility in those services, and provide less personal banking experience. Whereas smaller local banks are more eager to establish a banking relationship, and probably more willing to tailor their services, and provide a more personal banking experience. In addition, some banks have more locations than others, but some offer free mobile banking where you can deposit checks simply by taking a photo of them.

The final decision will depending on (a) what specific services are important to you, (b) how much of a minimum balance you can comfortably maintain, (c) whether you value traditional or more personal service, and (d) where you are most comfortable.

Traditional v. Virtual Office

Traditionally, attorneys have operated their practice from a business office. This is very convenient for having a dedicated space to perform work, meet with clients, and otherwise operate your business. It is also potentially the largest source of overhead costs incurred by a firm. Traditional office spaces are quite plentiful, can be found in most areas of the city, and can offer a various combination of features depending on your requirements. Offices for a solo practitioner can range on the low end around $500 per month, upwards of $2,000+ per month. If you can absorb that range of cost, then start researching and contacting offices in your area to find a location that suits your needs.

For attorneys who either, do not prefer the traditional office environment, or prefer less overhead costs, more and more attorneys are opting for the new age “virtual office” environment. There are several companies in California, such as Regis, Premier, and Barrister Suites, that offer a range of virtual office services. Virtual office services include:

• Business mailing address
• Phone answering service
• Conference rooms
• Shared or part-time office space
• Full time office space

Such services come in a variety of combinations, at varying costs. But most executive suit companies will allow an attorney to upgrade their services as their legal practice grows. This is a great option for attorneys to start small, and grow safely.

With a virtual office practice, a solo practitioner can utilize all the benefits of operating a business, while minimizing costs. This allows an attorney to operate their practice remotely, either on-the-go, throughout difference counties, from a home office or other convenient location. Another large benefit of this practice is that it can greatly benefit an attorney’s clients. Reduced overhead costs means that an attorney can lower some of the costs of their services, and still run a successful business.

Whether a traditional or virtual office, the final decision will depend on each attorney’s preferences, requirements and financial strategies.

A legal practice is a highly technical, and detail oriented business. There are numerous factors that should be tracked and organized during day-to-day operations. Law firms, like most business should keep track of all open cases or projects, task lists, and deliverables. Attorneys must keep detailed records of their billable hours, and must also maintain accurate calendars for meetings, hearings, civil procedure deadlines, and other case related dates. In addition, a firm must keep records regarding its finances, client trust accounts, costs and expenses, accounts receivable, invoices, and more.

Even a smaller solo practice may have difficulty maintaining all of these details manually through Word docs or Excel spreadsheets. There are many companies and services that provide automation for some or all of these tasks.

Services like Clio or MyCase provide a broad range of case management services, and can be a great way to automate most of your calendars, tasks time tracking, invoicing. QuickBooks is a very well known and still widely used method of managing your finances. There are also numerous low cost apps available that are helpful for time tracking and invoicing, though most do not have the power and capabilities of other full case management software.

Choosing software that works for your practice, may require some experimenting. Different attorneys have different preferences for doing business, and a law firm’s software should work in a way that makes an attorney’s job more efficient and cost effective.

Phone & Fax Numbers

Business phone numbers and fax numbers can be obtained through most phone service providers. Google offers a phone service called Google Voice, where you can obtain a phone number and voice messaging system for free. Companies such as Ring Central and MaxEmail allow you to send or receive faxes online, without the need of a physical fax machine.

Clients & Cases

All of the points discussed above are important when thinking of how to start a solo practice law firm in California. But the most important thing by far, is developing a base of clients and cases. Without clients or cases, a legal practice has no purpose.

Practices for developing a stable and productive client base, is an entire industry in itself. Unfortunately this simple article is not intended to describe in detail the various types of networking, business development, or marketing strategies to build up a legal practice. If it were that easy, articles like this would be pointless. So get out there, build your practice and reputation, and put due time and focus in finding people that you can help.

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Seven Sample Attorney Business Plans: Why Attorneys Must Have Business Plans

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By  Harrison Barnes

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• Business plans are a dying art, especially in the legal profession.
• Needless to say, business plans are also essential for a lawyer’s career.
• As the adage goes, if you don't plan your career, someone else will plan it for you.

Many of you work in firms that don't have a business plan for the firm as a whole , let alone your practice group or individual attorneys. And some of you are not privy to the firm's plan, even if there is one.

• If you are interested in seeing the elements of a lateral partner business plan click here: Partner Business Plans: Key Elements

Even so, that's no reason to forgo developing a plan for yourself. Remember, if you don't plan your career, someone else will plan it for you.

Have no fear. Personal business planning is not about writing a 50-page manifesto outlining every detail of every day of your professional life for the next 10 years . In fact, personal business planning can be as simple as you want to make it, as you can see here with this sample business plan for law practice PDF . You don't even have to call it a business plan -- call it a career plan if you prefer.

No matter how simple you make it or what you call it, personal business planning is about taking inventory of where you are , determining where you want to go and building a roadmap for getting there. Once you have the plan in writing, all you have to do is revisit it periodically to check your course and make any necessary adjustments.

Also, when it comes to planning, the biggest land mines are complexity and procrastination. Try to avoid creating a plan that overwhelms you or anyone you tell about it. And remember that any plan is better than no plan at all.

Strive to keep your plan simple and start taking action. As an attorney, you're well-versed in the areas of analysis and logic. In every work matter, you look at the situation and connect the dots to accomplish the desired objective. Apply the same approach to personal business planning and the dots you connect will lead you to the career you've always wanted.

• See 30 Ways to Generate Business as an Attorney for more information.

Business Plan For A Law Firm

How do i write a business plan for a law firm, what goes into a business plan, overview of the firm.

• A mission statement about the firm’s purpose.
• A vision statement or recitation of medium- and long-term goals for the firm.
• Important aspects of the firm’s history.
• Any important philosophies that the firm brings to legal practice.

Market Analysis

Do lawyers write business plans, 1. what are your goals.

• What do I want to achieve by starting my own law firm ?
• What is the impact I want to have?
• What am I good at?
• How do I want to service my clients?
• What problems do I want to help solve?
• What does success look like after starting this law firm?

2. Consider how much revenue you will need.

3. setting your fee structure, 4. determine how many cases you need to meet that revenue goal, how to create a law firm business plan, 1. executive summary.

• Mission statement: One or two sentences describing your firm’s purpose.
• Core values: What values are most important to the firm?
• Major goals: What are your firm’s overarching goals and objectives?
• Unique selling proposition: What sets your firm apart from other firms?

2. Firm Description

• Service(s): What type of law do you practice? What types of clients do you serve?
• Firm values: Restate your mission statement and core values.
• Legal structure: What sort of business entity are you? Are you in a sole proprietorship or a limited liability partnership?
• Location: Where is the office geographically located? What areas does the firm serve?
• Unique selling proposition: What makes your firm stand out? What technology or services give your firm an edge?

3. Market Analysis

• Ideal client: What demographics (like location, age, occupation), needs, and motivations would signify the best client match for your firm, and why?
• Industry description: What is the current and projected size of the market your firm is in? What are the trends in your legal niche?
• Competitive analysis: Who are your direct and indirect competitors, and how are they serving your target market? Where do your competitors succeed? What opportunities are there for your firm?
• Projections: How much can your ideal clients spend on legal services? How much can you charge?

4. Organization and Management Overview

• Describe what makes you unique and what sets you apart from other applicants.
• If applicable, include what makes each member of your team suitable for their particular roles.
• The organizational chart is a great visual aid if you have a larger practice.

5. Services

• What problems do your potential clients need your help with?
• How can your services uniquely help your clients solve their problems?
• What is the benefit of your services to clients?
• Why would potential clients choose your firm over another firm?

6. Marketing Strategy

• Ideal client: Where would you find your ideal client?
• Marketing goals: Detail what specific outcomes you hope to accomplish through marketing. Goals should include tactical objectives (more clients? Higher billing rates?) and overall objectives (like increased name recognition).
• Unique selling proposition: Restate what sets you apart and makes you uniquely able to best serve your clients.
• Competition: Detail who your competition is—and what they are doing to gain clients. Analyze their marketing strategies and assess where the cost of your services fits in with your competitors.
• Action plan: List the specific actions your firm will take to reach your target market and achieve your marketing goals (this could include a media/advertising strategy).

7. Financial Plan

• Revenue goal: How much money you want to make broken down by month.
• Financial projections: What you will really expect to earn, how many cases you think you will have the capacity to take on, and what you will be charging each client each month.
• Budget: A breakdown of your expenses and what your money will be going towards each month.
• Cash flow statement: What you actually earned and spent each month. This is different from your projections and budget and should be updated as the year progresses. You will find that you may have budgeted for something that cost you much less than you originally thought or made more in a month than you projected, these discrepancies should be recorded in your cash flow statement.

8. Start-Up Budget

• Hardware (laptops, printers, scanners, office furniture, etc.)
• Office space (Will you rent, or work from home?)
• Malpractice insurance
• Staff salaries (Are you planning to hire an administrative assistant or paralegal?)
• Utilities (Phone, internet, etc.)
• Practice management software or other technology services
• Partner Business Plans: Key Elements
• You Need to be Self-Managing and Responsible
• The Importance of Finding and Creating Demand
• The Importance of Asking the Right Questions, Self Improvement and Perception
• Attorney Business Plan Sample 1
• Attorney Business Plan Sample 2
• Attorney Business Plan Sample 3
• Attorney Business Plan Sample 4
• Attorney Business Plan Sample 5
• Attorney Business Plan Sample 6
• Attorney Business Plan Sample 7

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Harrison Barnes does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for attorneys and law students each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can attend anonymously and ask questions about your career, this article, or any other legal career-related topics. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom

Harrison also does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for law firms, companies, and others who hire attorneys each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom

You can browse a list of past webinars here: Webinar Replays

You can also listen to Harrison Barnes Podcasts here: Attorney Career Advice Podcasts

You can also read Harrison Barnes' articles and books here: Harrison's Perspectives

Harrison Barnes is the legal profession's mentor and may be the only person in your legal career who will tell you why you are not reaching your full potential and what you really need to do to grow as an attorney--regardless of how much it hurts. If you prefer truth to stagnation, growth to comfort, and actionable ideas instead of fluffy concepts, you and Harrison will get along just fine. If, however, you want to stay where you are, talk about your past successes, and feel comfortable, Harrison is not for you.

Truly great mentors are like parents, doctors, therapists, spiritual figures, and others because in order to help you they need to expose you to pain and expose your weaknesses. But suppose you act on the advice and pain created by a mentor. In that case, you will become better: a better attorney, better employees, a better boss, know where you are going, and appreciate where you have been--you will hopefully also become a happier and better person. As you learn from Harrison, he hopes he will become your mentor.

To read more career and life advice articles visit Harrison's personal blog.

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About Harrison Barnes

Harrison is the founder of BCG Attorney Search and several companies in the legal employment space that collectively gets thousands of attorneys jobs each year. Harrison is widely considered the most successful recruiter in the United States and personally places multiple attorneys most weeks. His articles on legal search and placement are read by attorneys, law students and others millions of times per year.

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Practical Business Planning For The Solo Practitioner

By Suzanne Meehle on Jul 30, 2012 2 Comments

But there is a lot more than that that we solo and small firm lawyers have in common with my clients than just that. We tend to be more tech-savvy than our Big Law counterparts. We also tend to think outside the box more often. Any small business person has to be the technical master of our product: in our case, the law; in my clients’ case, everything from making good food in their restaurants to designing the perfect iPad case. And when we aren’t becoming proficient at our craft, we have to become proficient at running a business and marketing our goods and/or services.

In short, you as a solo or small firm lawyer have a LOT in common with my small business owner clients. Therefore, I will give you some of the same advice I give my clients:  You need a business plan.

Just like you wouldn’t start driving your car across country without a map telling you how to get where you are going, you shouldn’t run your business by the seat of your pants just hoping you will arrive at your intended destination. Most advice books tell you how to write a business plan that will appeal to investors. Here is how you write a business plan for you .

Start by writing a Vision Statement. This is NOT a mission statement. It is NOT an executive summary. It is a few paragraphs, tops, on what you think your ideal practice looks like. How big do you want it to be? Do you have employees? Partners? Associates? What kind of work are you doing, ideally? What does an ideal day look like? Who are your ideal clients? Write it all out. Make it as pie-in-the-sky as you want it to be, but make sure it is really YOUR ideal vision of your law firm.

Next, do your SWOT Analysis . Since we have already discussed doing one of those, I won’t belabor the point. Once you have written down your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats, write out a couple of paragraphs saying what you will do to leverage your strengths and opportunities and what you will do to address your weaknesses and threats. Note that some of your strengths will address some of those weaknesses, and some of your opportunities will balance out the threats. Don’t be surprised if you are writing sentences like, “I will leverage my ability to write about the law to build content into my website and improve my search engine optimization, which will offset my inability to pay service providers for SEO optimization services.” That’s because out of your SWOT Analysis will come your marketing plan. That’s right – your marketing plan. How you take advantage of strengths and opportunities and how you address threats and weaknesses is through MARKETING.

Also notice that you have a pretty neat little summary of what the market for your services looks like: who your clients are, what kind of business they bring to you. Add in a little research about the market for legal services in your geographic area. Ask yourself what you are going to do to tap into that market, write down the answer, and voila! Your Market Summary is written. (Hint: A call to your local library or Chamber of Commerce can help you find out the number of prospective clients for your services in your area.)

Next, we will work on setting monetary goals for your business:

• First, look at your current costs of doing business. Come up with a monthly total, a budget, that it costs to keep your business alive. That budget is your “Survive” number. At that level your firm will survive.
• Now, think about how much more than that budget you need to make in order to regularly take home a small salary. Enough of a salary that you are paying your bills at home, too. That number, realistically, is your “Provide” number. At this level, your firm will survive and so will you.
• Now I want you to imagine what it would look like to “Thrive:” How many people would need to work for you? How much would your costs increase? How much more would you be taking home? This should be a number where you are comfortably providing for you and your staff every month, paying all the bills and socking away a little into a rainy day fund both at work and at home.
• Finally, ask yourself what it would take to really “Prosper.” How many days a week are you working? Who is working for you? How much does that increase your costs? This is pie-in-the-sky time – what would it take, financially, for you to have that ideal law firm you envisioned in your Vision Statement?

Now that you have your Survive, Provide, Thrive, and Prosper numbers worked out, put them into a spreadsheet showing monthly cost and monthly income for one year each. Year 1 is Survive. Year 2 is Provide. Year 3 is Thrive. And year 5 is Prosper.

What you now have is a business plan of sorts. No, not the kind you can take to the bank or get venture capital. (Although with a little tweaking, some of my clients have turned this into a more formal business plan that can get an SBA loan.) But you have a big picture overview of your business: what you want it to be, how you plan to grow your business, how you plan to market your business, and financial projections for years 1-5.

I highly recommend revisiting your business plan on a regular basis. Remember: the map is not the territory! As market conditions or costs change, so should your business plan. As your goals change, so should your plan. Just remember – it’s YOUR plan! What looked like prosperity today may look like mere survival tomorrow, so never be afraid to update your business plan.

Have you created a business plan?  What have you done the same?  What have you done differently?

All opinions, advice, and experiences of guest bloggers/columnists are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, practices or experiences of Solo Practice University®.

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2 comments on “ Practical Business Planning For The Solo Practitioner ”

Great post! It also reminded me that I have to start putting together my own business plan.

Good Article! I like the way you encourage readers to create what I would call a ‘real business plan’, i.e. business planning as an exercise in creating a better business rather than an arid exercise to try and winkle money out of the bank manager. Good writing.

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• Sample Business Plans

Law Firm Business Plan

If you are a lawyer, chances are you have thought of owning a law firm at least once if not more.

After all, having your firm gives you the freedom of taking up projects that you like and working at flexible hours.

But with freedom comes responsibility, and most of us find the thought of doing everything from onboarding clients to taking care of every detail of their case at least in the initial days quite overwhelming.

But don’t worry! It isn’t as scary as it looks. All you need to run a successful law firm is your sharp wit to deal with cases and a well-written law firm business plan to deal with the business side of your profession.

Free Law Firm Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

Industry Overview

The global legal services market was valued at a whopping sum of 849.28 billion dollars in 2020 and is expected to rise at a high rate going forward too.

The main changes in the legal industry have been brought about by the introduction of AI which does proofreading and data research jobs with higher efficiency. This lets the lawyers focus on what really matters.

Also, the security and access systems have become loads better due to cloud computing.

What is Law Firm Business Plan?

A law firm business plan is a document that outlines your business goals and strategies to achieve those goals. It includes your law firm overview, your reason to start your firm, the services you will offer, a budget or funding requirements, and strategies to get and manage your clients.

Why Law Firm Business Plan is Important?

A business plan would help you understand what sets you apart from your competitors, and how you can market your USP to your clients.

It also helps you design strategies to reach out to your clients and manage them. It comes in extremely handy for analyzing the loopholes in your business structure.

Moreover, it helps you identify your strengths and work on your weaknesses.

All in all, It can make managing your business a hassle-free and less chaotic process.

Things to Consider Before Writing a Law Firm Business Plan

Focus on your expertise.

Between juggling business and practice, it is natural that practice gets neglected more often than not. But always keep in mind that though focusing on your business is important it shouldn’t come at the cost of skills you need to develop and upgrade to do well as a lawyer.

Also, it is important to decide on a niche so you can dig deeper and become an expert at handling cases of that kind.

Create a proper website

In today’s world being present and active on the internet is as important for your business as being good at what you do.

A strong web presence helps you reach out to your customers as well as builds your reliability for them.

Build your network

Networking is an important aspect of being a lawyer. From getting new customers, getting updates on the legal world, and even collecting evidence if you are a criminal lawyer, a good network can work wonders for your legal business.

The kind of circle you belong to also has an impact on your reputation and image as a lawyer.

Develop soft skills

We all know that confidence and intellect are a lawyer’s best friends. And although it is an ongoing process to develop these skills, it is good to get a head start before you start your business.

Intellect helps you upgrade and pay attention to detail, and confidence helps you sound more convincing and reliable. Both of which are foundational to a legal business.

How to Write a Law Firm Business Plan?

A law firm business plan would be a combination of segments common to all business plans and segments specific to a law firm.

Before you start writing your business plan for your new law firm, spend as much time as you can reading through some examples of  consulting-related business plans .

Reading some sample business plans will give you a good idea of what you’re aiming for. It will also show you the different sections that different entrepreneurs include and the language they use to write about themselves and their business plans.

We have created this sample law firm business plan for you to get a good idea about how a perfect law firm business plan should look like and what details you will need to include in your stunning business plan.

Chalking out Your Business Plan

Starting your own law firm is an exciting prospect for any lawyer. Having your firm gives you more independence, lets you implement ideas you want to, and most importantly, you get to deal with clients firsthand.

And if you plan on starting your own, do so with a proper business plan.

But you might wonder, why do I need a business plan as a lawyer, isn’t my legal knowledge and years of work enough?

The answer is no.

To run a law firm you need a law degree, but to run a successful business you need a business plan alongside your degree.

Law Firm Business Plan Outline

This is the standard law firm business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan.

• Mission Statement
• Vision Statement
• Financial Summary
• 3 Year profit forecast
• Business Structure
• Startup cost
• Market Analysis
• Market Trends
• Target Market
• Market Segmentation
• Sales Strategy
• Marketing Strategy
• Pricing Strategy
• Personnel Plan
• Financial Plan
• Important Assumptions
• Brake-even Analysis
• Profit Yearly
• Gross Margin Yearly
• Projected Cash Flow
• Projected Balance Sheet
• Business Ratios

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Now, let’s understand how you can complete each section of your business plan.

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary forms the first page of your business plan. It acts as a pitch for your business to potential investors and should consist of the following sections.

• Objective: This gives an overview of what you wish to accomplish with your business. The objective should be clear and solve an existing problem in the market.
• Vision Statement: This should state what vision you have for your business. How do you want it to function and how far do you expect to reach with it. You can also include how your vision sits with the current market situation.
• Financial Summary: This section should ideally consist of the history of your finances and their current state. A proper financial summary helps you gain an investor’s confidence and makes it easier for your business to get funded.

2. Company Summary

Next up we have the company summary section, this segment provides an overview of your company’s structure and its functioning.

This section provides a brief description of the following:

• Legal Structure: This section would describe the legal terms and conditions your firm functions on, as well as the ownership structure of your firm.
• USP: This would consist of points that set your firm apart from your competitor’s firm.
• Services: This section will include the services you offer, the legal procedures you are well versed in, all in all, the client base you cater to.
• Location: This segment covers your area of service and the location of your firm. A clearly stated area of service, helps you reach the right audience.

3. Market analysis

This segment consists of a thorough analysis of the market situation. It can be split up into the following sub-segments.

• Market Trends: This would consist of all the prevailing trends in the market. It is important to know market trends because it helps your business keep up with the evolving market.
• Target Market:  This section would consist of a summary of the market you cater to. Clearly defining your niche helps you reach out to your desired customer base.
• Market Segmentation: In this section, note down the segments present in the market, as well as what segment of the market your business would fit in. This would help you narrow down the number of competitors you have, the strategies you must follow, and the major and additional services you should offer.

4. Strategy and implementations

In this section, you would include various business strategies like:

• Marketing strategy You can formulate a marketing strategy depending on your target audience and the easiest and most effective ways of reaching out to them. It is important to formulate your marketing strategy based on your USP and your vision statement.
• Pricing Strategy It is important to formulate a pricing strategy based on the market trends, the nature of the work, and your target audience.
• Milestones This segment would consist of the various milestones your business would have to reach to achieve your goal and the strategies to help you reach them.

5. Financial Plan

The financial section of your business plan would consist of the following information regarding your business.

• Financial history
• Current State of finances
• Profit and loss

Download a sample law firm business plan

Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go;  download our free law firm business plan pdf  to start.

It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your law firm business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

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Law Firm Business Plan Summary

All of the above segments would help you in creating a well-rounded business plan. Starting your law firm with a well-written business plan can make your growth process faster and smoother.

After getting started with Upmetrics , you can copy this law firm business plan example into your business plan and modify the required information and download your law firm business plan pdf or doc file.

It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing your business plan.

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Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Legal Practice

A Successful Business Plan for Solo Law Firm

Introduction .

Starting a solo legal practice and being your own boss can bring you a sense of empowerment and freedom. The best source of referral for a solo practitioner is their clients themselves. Therefore, it is vital to make sure that your client gets the best legal experience from your side. To achieve this, there has to be a fool-proof business plan to project and promote your law expertise.

Hallmarks of Solo Legal Practice 

The benefits of starting an independent practice are numerous. While working for a senior lawyer, junior lawyers have to take up the case they are assigned to, even if it is not their niche. When a legal professional works on their own, they can choose the area of law they would prefer to work in. It would make the work less hectic and more enjoyable.

Read Also – Some basic tips for choosing the right law firm

Additionally, solo practitioners can lay down their own terms and conditions. They can adjust and change the work schedules without compromising their personal life. Moreover, they do not have to wait for long and take permission from senior lawyers for leaves.

Solid Business Plan to Skyrocket Solo Legal Practice

A business plan is an overall outline of a legal professional’s legal business that needs to be revised and modified continuously. As you create one, new ideas and strategies unfold. It aids in formulating a direction and control for the business. Moreover, updating the business plan will keep a proper check and balances and bolster productivity. The components of a business plan are as follows:

Executive  Summary

An executive summary is the most crucial part of the business plan. It summarizes what the legal solo practice is about, where it is heading, and the action plan for attaining that goal. It is written after the business plan is completed and highlights the legal practice’s key points.

The executive summary must be inclusive of a Mission Statement. It should reflect every facet of your niche area of legal practice. This will act as a summary of your objectives and goals. Additionally, you need to include the core values which your legal practice advocate for. It helps in making a deeper connection and trust-based relationship with the clients. Finally, the executive summary has to give an outline of what makes your legal practice different from other lawyers and why it stands ahead in the profession.

General Legal Practice Description

In the second most component, you need to reiterate your goals, objectives, ambitions, and your field of expertise. Mention the years of experience that you have in the legal field and what types of clients you serve. Besides, throwing light on the motivation of starting a solo legal practice can also be included. Most importantly, describe the vital factors or strong core strengths that will help you stand out. Furthermore, mention the physical office’s address and the type of legal entity that you are.

Market Analysis

A detailed Market Analysis will discuss the competitive landscape that you are part of. It will aid you in developing stronger strategies to attract potential clients to you. Analyzing the market will help you to stay on track. A well-formulated Market Analysis will have the following:

Market description

This will enable you to understand the current and potential size of the market your legal practice is in. It helps you identify the various trends in your legal niche, making it on top of the game. Employing these trends would bolster your growth in the field.

Competitive Landscape

Understand your direct and indirect competitors. Figure out their strong and weak points, try to understand the strategies they make use of. Compare their growth with your legal practice to realize where you stand in the legal practice. Find out the unserved market for your legal service and focus on that. Learn more about how the competitors sell their services, whom they represent, their pricing, and other specialties they offer to clients.

Analysing the market will help you discover the expected growth of the market and new data on which your time can be spent efficiently.

Marketing Strategies

 Marketing strategies form an integral part of the Business Plan. In order to formulate this accurately, you need to do a general market analysis. It will help you to set realistic goals and strategies. Compare your goals to your competitors and revise whenever necessary according to changing needs. You need to explain how you will solicit referrals from other legal professionals, as well as how you will reach out to potential clients.

Mention which marketing activities you will be resorting to promote your practice and how much you will charge. You can offer introductory rates to clients and later determine the price elasticity according to your expertise and experience. Reinstate what sets you apart as a solo legal practitioner and how best you will serve them. Throw light on your traits and other achievements. Define the impact your service will have on the clients.

Customer Analysis 

Identify the potential clients and discover their characteristics, geographic locations, income levels, and everything vital to your legal practice. Examine different ways in which client satisfaction can be improved. It is also essential to clearly understand the different revenue streams that can be generated from different clients. You can try to expand to any other filed which is closely connected to your area of expertise.

Financial Plans

Financials should be the final part of your business plan. It must consist of a 12-month profit and loss projection, projected balance sheet, and a break-even calculation. It is vital to list out financial assets and liabilities. A proper and well-thought plan on how much cash you need for the legal practice is vital. It will help you to predict any shortages that are possible in the future. As a result, you can cut out certain expenses or avail a loan when needed. Incorporate graphs and pie charts to layout the proper financial plans.

Read Also – Guide to start a solo practice law firm in India

The business plan must provide a clear overview of your legal practice. If you are going solo, a business plan will help you to set concrete goals. This will help you to be on track and will attract prospective clients.

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Free law firm business plan template.

Whether you’re starting a law firm or developing a plan to grow an existing firm, it’s important to document your goals and how you’ll achieve them. This is why we created an easy-to-use business plan template for law firms.

This template includes sections for:

• Executive summary
• Market analysis
• Marketing strategy
• Financial plan
• Organization and management

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JD/MBA Program

James Kim ’13 Undergraduate – UC Berkeley Major – Legal Studies Hometown – Cerritos, CA

Brittni Neu ’14 Undergraduate – UCLA Major – Economics and American Literature & Culture Hometown – San Jose, CA

JD/MBA Admissions Process

Candidates for the combined program must make separate application to both the School of Law and the M.B.A. Program. It is unnecessary to apply to both programs simultaneously. Because the first year of the program is entirely in the law school, candidates typically apply to the M.B.A. Program after they have completed the first semester of law school.

J.D. Program

The School of Law seeks applicants with strong academic backgrounds who have earned a baccalaureate degree in any discipline. Factors considered in the admission decision include the following: academic history, including trends in undergraduate grades, selection of academic courses, graduate study, results of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), work experience, life experience, and community and school service. Letters of recommendation are not required but are usually helpful. Approximately 285 students enroll each year after being selected from more than 2,800 applicants. The School of Law uses a rolling admission process with the first decisions being made in early January preceding the August of desired enrollment. Applications should be filed before February.

Applicants to the School of Law must complete the following steps:

• Return the application for admissions to the Admissions Office with the required application fee.
• Take the Law School Admission Test. The test is offered four times a year and must be taken by February in the desired year of enrollment. Tests scores are generally considered current for four years. If the test is taken more than once, the highest score will be considered.
• Register for the Credential Assembly Service (CAS) and have official transcripts sent to Law Services from every North American college or university attended.
• Upon acceptance, make the tuition deposits required to hold a seat in the entering class.

M.B.A. Program

The M.B.A. Program, accredited by AACSB (American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business), seeks students who show aptitude, interest, and ability for leadership.

Students are admitted in any of three quarters fall, winter, and spring. Application requirements are:

• Completed application with the required application fee.
• Essay question responses (two required, one optional).
• Two confidential letters of recommendation (letters used for Law School Admission are not admissible).
• Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). Waivers are available for qualified candidates, please contact the MBA Admissions Office at [email protected] .
• Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended (if not on file at the law school).

Applications will not be considered until all materials are received. Admission will only be granted to students who are in good standing in the law school and are full-time students.

Course of Study

Students enrolled in the combined degree program plan a specific course of study with the program advisors. No undergraduate business course work is required. Students who have taken business courses may have some courses waived.

Students will be permitted to count certain courses for credit toward both degrees. A maximum of 12 quarter units taken in the School of Business and eight semester units taken in the School of Law may be counted toward both degrees. In addition, a concentration may be completed through the scheduling of electives. Please refer to the MBA viewbook for more detailed information.

Employment Outlook

Recent graduates report that their joint degrees are beneficial in a wide variety of career areas including private business, law practice, business management, entrepreneurship, and government administration. The School of Law Career Services Office assists students with their career planning through individual counseling, workshops on topics such as resume writing, interviewing and job search strategies. Many law firms, government agencies, and corporations participate in the on-campus interviewing program in the fall, and hundreds of other employers from around the country request law students’ resumes.

J.D./M.B.A. degree holders who seek employment outside the legal profession also benefit from the resources and facilities of the University Career Services.

For More Information Contact:

Law School Admissions Office Santa Clara University School of Law Santa Clara, CA 95053 408-554-5048 [email protected]

M.B.A. Program Leavey School of Business Santa Clara University Santa Clara, CA 95053 408-554-4539 [email protected]

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Ex Parte Applications: Ask the Court for an Order as Quickly as Possible

Templates and forms.

Note: This Guide covers generic ex parte (emergency) requests in civil cases. If you need a temporary restraining order, see our article TROs: Applying for a Temporary Restraining Order in a Civil Case . Family, probate, and criminal courts handle the process differently.

“ Ex parte ” is a Latin legal term for “from one party.” An Ex Parte Application is used by one party to ask the court for an order, such as an order changing a hearing date or deadline, without the usual notice to the other parties to give them time to prepare an opposition. Ex parte applications are used in emergency situations when there is not enough time for a standard motion, which typically take about four weeks (16 court (business) days minimum).

Ex Parte Tips

Use only when truly necessary.

Because the notice requirement of motions are designed to ensure the fairness of the procedure, ex parte applications, which by their nature circumvent this process, are highly disfavored, and granted only if absolutely necessary. If a matter could have been handled by a noticed motion or stipulation, the judge will deny your application and set for a hearing at a later date

Therefore, before filing an ex parte application, ask the other party(s) if they will agree to your request. If they do, file a stipulation instead.

Some requests are never handled ex parte

Courts in different counties may have different local rules or practices on what matters can be handled via ex parte hearings. For example, in Sacramento, the court will reject all ex parte applications to continue a trial. However, you may apply for an ex parte “order shortening time to serve or file motion to continue trial,” to permit you to file and serve a motion to continue trial with less than 16 days’ notice.

In fact, most typical motions are not appropriate for ex parte hearing. Instead, litigants can bring an ex parte application to shorten time for notice of the desired motion. If the judge approves the application, the order will usually specify the deadline for the other party to be served and to respond.

Some requests are always handled ex parte

Some requests are so routine and noncontroversial that the Judicial Council or local courts have created forms for them. For instance, in Sacramento, you can use a local form to substitute newly-discovered defendants for your Doe defendants, extend the time for arbitration, and to extend the time to select a trial date. Ex Part e Application for Extension of Time to Serve Pleading ( CM-020 ) is an ex parte application mostly used for a plaintiff to extend time to serve the complaint. However, there are no pre-printed forms for most civil ex parte situations.

Researching and writing the papers

You will need to research and write (1) an “ Ex Parte Application,” stating what you are requesting and when the hearing will be; (2) a “Memorandum of Points and Authorities,” explaining the relevant laws and how they apply to your facts; (3) a “Declaration” under penalty of perjury explaining the facts of the case, and why the matter is so urgent it should be heard ex parte ; and (4) a “Declaration re Notice” explaining if and how you give notice to the other parties. (Sometimes this is combined with the Declaration of the facts of the case.) You must also write a “Proposed Order” for the judge to sign if they grant the application.

Templates for the Ex Parte Application and for the Declaration Regarding Notice are attached to this guide, set up for an application to shorten the required notice for an urgent motion. This may not fit your circumstances and you will likely need to do research and customize the application. The Law Library has several books with samples and instructions of all these papers, which you can customize for your situation. See the “Secondary Sources and Forms” section, below, for specific recommendations.

Scheduling the hearing and notifying other parties

The applicant must schedule the ex parte hearing ahead of time with the court department by 10 a.m. the day before. You must also notify the other parties that you will be bringing the application, and file your paperwork with the court by 4 p.m. the day before the hearing.

In Sacramento, different departments hear different types of motions, including ex parte applications on those matters:

• The Presiding Judge (Dept. 47) hears all motions for consolidation, coordination, severance, bifurcation, intervention, pretrial conference, change of venue, or to advance or continue trial.
• Case Management Program* (CMP) judges (Depts. 30 and 36) hear all CMP motions, including matters regarding judicial arbitration, redesignation of a case, for extension of time to answer a complaint, for relief from CMP rules, or certification for short cause.
• Law and Motion: Department 53 (odd-numbered cases) or Department 54 (even-numbered cases) hear most other types of motions.
• If a judge has been assigned to a case for all purposes , that judge hears all motions for the case.

These assignments change from time to time, so check the with the court for a current list of which department hears which types of motions.

You must give the other party(s) notice before 10 a.m. the court day before the hearing, unless you can prove “exceptional circumstances that justify a shorter time for notice.” Ex parte hearings have unique notice procedures. You personally should phone the other party(s) (or their lawyer, if they have one) to tell them what you are asking the court and when the hearing will be, and ask them if they plan to attend. California Rule of Court (“CRC”) 3.1204. If you do not reach them, leave a detailed message with a reliable call-back number.

After you do this, you must write the “Declaration re Notice” stating whether the opposing party is represented by counsel, whether that party has been contacted and has agreed to the requested order, or why the order should be issued without such notice. This Declaration must be submitted to the department before 10 a.m. the day before the hearing. You must also pay the filing fee (usually $60 in Sacramento) unless you have a fee waiver in the case.

You must also file the rest of your paperwork before 10 a.m. the court day before the hearing.

Attending the hearing

Since COVID-19, it is permissible to appear by telephone or Zoom.

Be sure to log into Zoom or arrive at the appropriate department early. If attending in person, bring a copy of all paperwork to the hearing with you. Pay the fee if you haven’t yet, and bring the receipt to the hearing.

In Sacramento, the judge will typically consider the matter in chambers (the judge’s office) based on the papers you have turned in, and may just notify you of the decision while you wait. If the judge has additional questions, he or she may ask you to come in to chambers to answer questions.

If your evidence is sufficient, the judge will sign your Proposed Order . The judge may also deny the Ex Parte Application, but set the matter for hearing on a normal motion schedule later.

The applicant should serve any signed orders on the other parties and file the original order and proof of service at court.

For more information

Court procedures (sacramento county).

“ Ex Parte Motions: Law and Motion Departments ” Sacramento County Superior Court

In other counties, look on the court’s website under the Civil Department section or local rules, or call to ask a clerk the process.

Secondary sources and forms

There are no pre-printed forms for most ex parte applications. Templates for the Ex Parte Application and for the Declaration Regarding Notice are attached to this guide, which will need extensive research and customization.

The Law Library recommends the following practice guides, which contain sample forms you can adapt for your situation. Most of these books also have more details about the legal standards and procedures that apply to ex parte applications.

California Forms of Pleading and Practice ( KFC 1010 .A65 C3 (Ready Reference)) (Matthew Bender). Chapter 372, “Motions and Orders,” has in-depth information on ex parte procedures, including customizable samples of the ex parte application, declarations, and proposed orders. There are also dozens of chapters on specific topics, from “Adjoining Landowners” to “Zoning,” with sample paperwork for those situations.

Sample memorandums of points and authorities can be found in the companion book California Points and Authorities ( KFC1010 .B4 (Ready Reference)), Chapter 417. Electronic access: On the Law Library’s computers, using Lexis Advance .

California Law and Motion Model Forms ( KFC 1012.A65 P37 (General Collection)) (Rutter Group). Various chapters include sample ex parte applications for extensions of time, including extension of time to plead, for an order shortening time, and other situations, with all required elements, and a proposed order. This book includes a sample memorandum of points and authorities, unlike most others. It has less background information and primarily offers the customizable form to copy or download.

California Pretrial Practice & Forms ( KFC1020 .A65 K86 (General Collection)) (James Publishing, Inc.). Chapter 14, sections 14:490-498, contain a succinct description of the requirements for ex parte applications, as well as sample forms. A useful discussion of the types of evidence that can be used to support motions and applications can be found at 14:80-122. Electronic access: Forms, but not text, available on the companion CD-ROM, available at the Circulation Desk upon request.

In addition, all of the following practice guides have forms for the ex parte application, declaration, declaration re notice, and/or proposed order:

• California Civil Practice: Procedure , Chapter 14. ( KFC 995.A65 B3 (General Collection))
• California Practice Guide: Civil Procedure before Trial , Chapter 9. ( KFC995. W45 (General collection))
• California Pretrial Civil Procedure , Chapter 26. ( KFC 995 .M38 (General Collection and Lexis Advance))
• California Civil Procedure before Trial , Chapter 14 . (KFC 995 .C34 (General Collection and OnLaw))

*The Case Management Program mostly applies to unlimited civil cases.

This material is intended as general information only. Your case may have factors requiring different procedures or forms. The information and instructions are provided for use in the Sacramento County Superior Court. Please keep in mind that each court may have different requirements. If you need further assistance consult a lawyer.