Plan to support and develop smaller law firms
In 2018, the Law Society engaged Crowe (formerly Crowe Horwath) to carry out a review to consider the unique challenges and opportunities currently facing sole practitioners and smaller practices (those firms with 5 solicitors or fewer).
This review was initiated by past-president Michael Quinlan and the report has now been published.
Review findings
The Report is based on an extensive body of research involving a survey of hundreds of smaller firms from all over Ireland, focus groups and in-depth case studies. It includes key insights from the review and makes eleven strategic recommendations to assist smaller practices to grow their businesses and achieve greater success.
Smaller practices are business owners as well as solicitors. They must be adept at the day-to-day running of a business as well as practising the law. Many of the challenges smaller firms face are similar to those faced by other business owners and SMEs. Some of those practising in small firms, particularly sole practitioners, can feel isolated and pressured. It is important that smaller practices work and, where necessary, evolve to meet these challenges in order to serve their clients and take advantage of opportunities.
A project management plan is underway by the Law Society’s Representation and Member Services Department to implement the full Report throughout 2019. Our aim is to assist smaller firms achieve sustained growth and to realise their potential.
If you have any questions about the Report, or how your firm can begin implementation of the recommendations, please contact smallpractices@lawsociety.ie.
