Why I became a lawyer
My parents’ divorce and bitter custody battle gave me a brief glimpse into into courtroom drama, which made me want to learn more about the legal profession.
After seeing the movie The Paper Chase, I developed a strange desire to be subjected to intense Socratic questioning. I entered Loyola Law School in New Orleans in 1982 and realized instantly I’d found an immensely enjoyable challenge.
Law School
I did well enough to make law review and get selected for the National Moot Court team (among other accolades).
After law school, I spent two years in a federal clerkship for an intense judge who taught me many valuable things (including why law review is worthless)
After the clerkship I started working for a prestigious New Orleans firm doing commercial litigation (i.e. lots of paper organized by well-paid paralegals).
It was another great learning experience and I wound up making partner, which was nice.
I enjoyed my fancy office and the vast resources, and the amazing people. What I hated was the relentless bureaucracy and reluctance to adopt technology.
Going Solo
Starting my own firm turned out to be wise decision. Knowing how to leverage technology was vital to my success.
If it wasn’t for technology I wouldn’t have had confidence I could continue to do commercial litigation as a solo. But by the time I was ready to leave I had become completely paperless.
How it Went Down
One Friday afternoon I walked out of my 40th-floor partner’s office, with client files that would have needed a large truck to haul away if they hadn’t been digitally stored in the 2 lb. laptop I had tucked under my arm.
I enjoyed my solo practice immensely. I worked fewer hours for clients who truly appreciated my help. I was financially secure and totally free.
Other lawyers noticed and asked for my help, which I was happy to provide.
Leveraging Technology
Technology is integral in every aspect of law practice.
Used well, it enables us to remove friction, streamline workflows, and —ultimately— gain financial security and freedom.
Solo lawyers can adopt technology more quickly than big firm lawyers, and that’s a huge advantage.
Overcoming Challenges
Yes, there are challenges. But many lawyers have met those challenges and are much better off as a result.
The road to success starts with a hard truth: Technology takes time to understand, evaluate, and adopt.
Some lawyers have time for this, but most do not.
The Best Solution
If you don’t want to waste time figuring things out on your own, get this special tech guide.
