Law Office Management
| Publication year | 1982 |
| Pages | 1883 |
| Citation | Vol. 11 No. 7 Pg. 1883 |
1982, July, Pg. 1883. Law Office Management
Organizing an office for a new practice can be enjoyable if done in the proper way---or it can turn into a nightmare. Utilizing the suggestions below will assist the practitioner in locating suitable office space and setting up internal systems, thereby avoiding the headaches that may otherwise be encountered.
In choosing a location, accessibility to the courts and library should be considered. Since an attorney's first obligation is to his client, and time is money, if his practice demands court appearances a maximum five-mile commute to the courts will minimize travel time.
In selecting an office, layout should be kept in mind. The guidance of a good architect can be very helpful in deciding such issues as the siting of interior and exterior offices, supply and filing areas and equipment. Although these decisions may not seem very important at the outset, once the office begins to operate, efficiency will become a prime factor--- the fewest number of steps to get the work done.
In designing office space, attorneys should take into consideration an ample area for conferences. If the office space does not allow for a separate conference room, consider the following:
1) Many office buildings have conference room facilities available within their project; it is worthwhile to check this out. Generally, a small rental fee reserves the room either on a half-day or full-day basis;
2) Consider setting aside an area within the office that can be used for conferences;
3) Consider selecting "action-type" furniture that gives the flexibility for either a work area or conference area when the need arises.
Take an inventory of available research materials. If the inventory is minimal, an in-building library, or access to one within a very short distance, should be a
Furniture and furnishings should be the next order of business. If the practice is to begin immediately, renting furniture and equipment is a must...
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