Riding The Highs & Lows Of Being A Solo Lawyer
I spent years in practice worried about absolutely everything - clients, money, mistakes, holidays and even leaving the office early.
For years I was so busy I didn’t know up from down and had no idea how I was ever going to get everything done.
I could never work out why the bank account was so empty when I was so busy.
I worried about not having enough clients, then too many clients, and then when the next matter would land.
I felt isolated, lonely, and afraid of the unknown.
A Lot Of Solo Lawyer Worrying
I worried about looking silly publicly and privately, making a mistake, trying something new, raising my prices, and even quoting a fee.
I worried about paying myself, knowing how to use the technology, understanding my accounts, and taking a holiday in case everything fell apart while I was gone.
I was scared of closing down too long at Christmas.
I even felt guilty leaving the office early.
I worried a lot.
That was me for quite a few years, riding all the ups and downs until I finally bumped my self-confidence up a notch.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing other than stopping to smell the roses and enjoying the journey more.
And what I love now is that being a solo lawyer means I get to choose when and where I work, who I work with, how I practise, and for what fee.
This is the story and the journey of me as a solo lawyer, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
It was the best professional decision I ever made, and I couldn’t fathom working in a big law firm again.
Thinking Of Going Solo Yourself?
If you’re somewhere on this same path - curious, hesitant, excited, terrified, I’ve put together a practical guide to help you take the next step with a bit more confidence and a lot less confusion.
It’s called When Is It The Right Time To Go Out Solo As A Lawyer? and it’s the guide I wish I had when I first set out.
Just the essentials for setting up, launching, and running your own solo law practice.
