So, I’ve made my decision. Finally. I’m going to make the leap and start my own practice. It’s what I planned to do, just not so quickly. But I figure, why wait? Is there really going to be a “better” time than right now? I’ll never really have enough money, time, resources, etc to make myself feel any more comfortable about taking such a leap of faith. As far as experience, I’m not so sure, based on horror stories I’ve heard of firm life, that I would have gotten anything more than thrown into the mix and left to figure it all out on my own anyway. Only then I would have a boss to disappoint and who would then promptly read me the riot act. I’m not sure a mentor exists any more than in the listservs that I’ve become a part of…so in that respect, I do feel pretty comfortable with my decision. I’m smart. My hesitation was never in my abilities or intelligence, just a matter of my need to analyze and analyze some more, and then analyze another half dozen times. It’s what I do. How my brain works for whatever reason.
With this decision, I now need to get cracking on actually setting up shop. I’ve got the basic office equipment and a plan (I think) on where my office will be, but that I’m still trying to decide. I’ve heard of several folks starting their practice out of their home at first, to save on start up costs and for ease of working with children, and they seem to enjoy that. And then just use other meeting areas when it comes to sitting down with clients. I like this idea with having a small one at home now. I’d rather not be away from her. And add in the cost of daycare, being away from home wouldn’t really be the best decision economically starting out. The only reason why I hesitate is that I have found a couple office spaces available for lease, that have a reasonable price attached, as well as amenities, including overflow work. The last part would be nice.
I still need to get business cards printed up, create a website, and set up Facebook and Twitter (ugh, I don’t tweet and have no idea how it works!). But most importantly, I need to decide on a name! I’ve decided that I’m going with a PLLC, mostly because it doesn’t cost that much to have the added protection. But I can’t decide on what I want the practice name to be. I’m at a stand still since I kind of need that before I can move forward. I was leaning towards LastName Law Firm, but don’t really like the sound of it. I do, however, like LastName Legal Services. Given my last name, it seems to roll off the tongue better. So, I’m curious. Does anyone have a reason why one would be preferred over the other? Is the title of legal services normally attached to specific areas of practice? I plan to practice Business Law, Family Law, Probate/Estate Planning.
Insight on choosing a name, and going solo in general is appreciated! Oh, and I’m definitely looking for some advice on using social media, especially Twitter. I know it’s all the rage, but it confuses the bejeepers outta me!
