going solo attorney when cant find job

In law school, the best and the brightest get jobs at Big Law, P.A., or get a clerkship with the Supreme Court and then move onto a glorious job at Big Law, P.A. Usually, the only talk of becoming a solo attorney is “well, you can always go solo if you can’t find anything else.”

Full Answer

How to start solo practice?

How to Start a Solo Practice. After deciding to go solo, it’s wise to prepare as much as possible before quitting a steady job. The majority of preparation for a firm’s opening can be done after work or on weekends while still employed . The goal is to hit the ground running immediately after leaving a job.

Why is it important to be a solo?

The major benefit of being a solo is an ability to choose where and when to work. Though flexible and virtual work arrangements are becoming more common, solos retain ultimate control over their time.

What happens if you don't have passion?

If you lack the passion, you will not want to invest the time and energy to succeed. Nervousness and fear of failing can be healthy and will motivate you to plan ahead and take the necessary steps to succeed. However, if quitting your job and going solo makes you feel too queasy, then it may not be the right time.

I value time over money

It’s common for Americans to define success in terms of money. But I believe there are things that are more valuable than cash. Of course I need money to pay my bills, but I don’t need to become wealthy. Nor to do I want the pursuit of money to control my life.

I want the freedom to manage my practice

As a solo, I make an effort to really get to know my clients and develop meaningful relationships with them so I can do my job better.

I already had self-discipline

The solo lifestyle requires self-discipline. It’s easy to slack off when you are your own boss.

I give back

Some of my business law work involves bankruptcy, and I do a fair amount of pro bono bankruptcy work. I’ve learned that pro bono work pays off many times over in terms of goodwill.

Where am I now?

I’m loving every minute of having my cats help me practice law in my home office. I control my time and my clientele. I choose the cases I take and don’t take.