It’s a New Year and New Plans Apply!
- Sehmani KingSun-Leo
- Jan 2, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 3
Welcome to 2025 legal professionals!
2024 was an amazing year for growth and opportunity and the journey continues. Part of that journey means planning is at the forefront of your action plan to provide better services and professional development.
It is NOT a cliche to create a list of goals at the kick-off of the new year. In fact - creating those goals will set you apart from the unprepared entrepreneurs that expect positive results regardless of a lack of planning.
As a licensed paralegal running a sole-practice, I can confidently say that plans DO change and the way we expect things to go, may not be the ultimate turn out. In that case, what do we do? We look at the road ahead and PIVOT!
Many of us have various tools that we rely on. For me, I use a ROADMAP. I often get the questions: How do I create one? Where do I begin?
A roadmap can be anywhere from writings on a piece of paper, outlining steps 1 through to however many steps your plan may require. Others may use visuals, such as a picture of a road map with text at the side of the image, graphs or mind mapping. Below are a few examples.
MIND MAPPING
ROAD MAPPING
Roadmapping for every year you are in business is a great way to map out how you will approach various scenarios that may arise in your business.
It isn’t only about the structure of your business, the process and procedures of file maintenance, there are many moving parts to ensuring that your business runs smoothly and your skills stay sharp.
Here are some tips on a couple of areas you may want to focus on for your legal practice or just simply wanting to grow as a legal professional.
1. Enhancing Client Relationships
Oftentimes when you are running a practice, the positive and intentional development of your customer service plan is not a consistent priority. Let’s think about it this way: Without excellent customer service, what clients will you have to serve? Effective communication and trust are the cornerstones of any successful legal practice. As the legal industry evolves, so do client expectations for transparency, accessibility, and personalized service.
Resolution: Review your client intake and communication processes. Implement or refine client feedback mechanisms to ensure you’re meeting their needs. Consider using technology to enhance responsiveness and streamline interactions.
Take a record of what works such as client survey’s that are quick and easy to access or just by simply having a quick conversation with your client on their experience. Having this information will equip you with better practice ideas to be implemented in the future.
2. Staying Up-to-Date with Legal Trends
How do we stay on top of the law?
Lucky for us we are in the digital age where information is at our fingertips. There are many platforms to connect with and utilize in order to stay in the legal loop of thins.
Here is a short and non-exhaustive list of a few platforms/ I recommend:
For licensees - The Ontario Reports have updated information on new caselaw. You generally receive this report via email as a benefit of being a licensee.
Legal search engines such as LexisNexis, Canlii, Westlaw. Subscribing to these platforms are also beneficial as you may choose to be notified when there are updated cases in any given area of law depending on the platform.
Follow legislative updates on both provincial and federal websites such as Justice Canada, Ontario e-Laws. These platforms also provide amendments and new legislation.
Read legal publications such as the Canadian Bar Review, the National Magazine, the Ontario Bar Association Publications, CLEO Publications, and the Ontario Gazette.
Legal landscapes shift rapidly, and as a general practitioner, your versatility is a strength. However, keeping up with changes in multiple areas of law can be challenging.
Resolution: Dedicate time each month to staying informed about updates in key practice areas. Attend continuing legal education (CLE) seminars or join legal associations that provide regular updates and resources.
3. Streamlining Operations with Legal Technology
Legal technology is no longer optional; it’s an integral part of running a modern practice. From case management systems to AI-powered legal research tools, technology can save time and improve accuracy.
Resolution: Assess your current tech tools and identify gaps. Invest in software that simplifies case management, billing, and document automation to enhance your efficiency. Speak to legal tech professionals and obtain feedback on the best softwares to use!
4. Reviewing Compliance and Ethics
Compliance with professional and ethical standards is critical for maintaining your reputation and avoiding pitfalls.
Resolution: Conduct an internal audit of your practice to ensure compliance with all legal and ethical obligations. Review client confidentiality protocols, billing practices, and conflict-checking procedures.
Refer to the mandated by-laws and Code of Conduct provided by the Law Society of Ontario for a better understanding of your obligations as a licensee and practicing professional.
5. Expanding Your Network
Networking isn’t just for business development; it’s also a way to stay informed and gain access to valuable resources.
Resolution: Attend local bar association events, join practice-area-specific groups, and connect with peers online. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to referrals and collaborations.
In 2024, I attended multiple networking events for various associations and legal conferences. Through these channels, I have made some amazing connections and obtained the opportunity to both give and receive referrals. This has made my practice grow and have a steady flow of clients.
I am a sole-practitioner, a college professor and a creative, so utiltizing my role and platforms go hand-in-hand. I understand that networking can be expensive, however, joining an association OR seeking free in-person CPD’s or celebration events is worth seeking as well. Speak with your peers and senior professionals - stay connected.
6. Planning for Financial Growth
As a general practitioner, balancing client service with financial sustainability is key. Planning your finances strategically ensures the long-term health of your practice.
Resolution: Revisit your billing rates and payment policies to ensure they reflect the value you provide. Consider offering alternative fee arrangements, such as flat fees or subscription services, to attract a broader client base.
7. Prioritizing Work-Life Balance
The demands of a legal practice can take a toll on your personal well-being. A healthy work-life balance is essential for sustained success.
Resolution: Set boundaries to prevent burnout. Schedule regular breaks, take vacations, and consider delegating tasks to support staff or outsourcing non-essential functions.
Work will ALWAYS be there, but it is important to create a balance of living your life and getting your work done effectively. Your mental health matters and the public relies on us to be sharp and reliable. We are all human, so breaks are necessary!
Final Thoughts
Starting the year with clear goals can set the tone for a productive and rewarding 2025. By focusing on client relationships, staying current with legal trends, and leveraging technology, you can position your practice for success. Remember, a thriving practice starts with a well-prepared practitioner.
2025 has arrived, let's start it off with a bang!
May justice guide your journey both on and off the record.
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BONUS:
I love movies! On the last Friday of the month, I will be sharing well known, favourite court/legal dilemma scenes and will pose a legal question to gain insight on what legal professionals have to say!
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Until next time - may justice guide your journey both on and off the record.
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