Transitioning to Private Practice After Public Interest Law

Question: I have worked for public interest law firms for nearly 20 years.  It is possible to transition to private practice, or do I have to hang up my own shingle? Answer: I think that anyone who has worked in public interest for 20 years has the ability to do whatever they want going forward. The […]

Is My Book of Legal Business Portable?

Question: How do I know if my book of business is actually portable? This is a common question, especially in the legal field. And it is a very important question. First, a client is not automatically portable simply because you brought them in or you are representing them. There is no sure way to tell if […]

Does Lying about Past Drug Use on a Bar Application Cause Trouble?

Question: Can an attorney be disbarred in Illinois if they lie about drug use in their bar application? I am licensed in PA and do not recall any questions about past drug use on the bar application.  I quickly looked at the application under character and fitness on the Illinois bar site, and I do […]

What Suggests a Teen Would Make Good Lawyer Some Day?

Question: I am interested in being a lawyer. How do I know if I will make a good one? What characteristics do lawyers have? What Characteristics? Lawyers need to be able to think like lawyers. This is a unique mindset that you develop if you go to law school. Not everyone can learn to think […]

Will an Attorney Be Denied a License Due to Therapy?

Question: If I am in therapy can I be denied a license to practice law? I don’t recall ever hearing of someone being denied entry to a bar simply because he or she has seen a therapist. Law is a very stressful profession, and many lawyers see therapists. It is often a smart thing to do. […]

Do I Need a Physical Office for my Law Firm?

Question: Do lawyers need a physical office? Law firms can be quite successful without a formal office. If you meet clients, then you need a place to meet them that is appropriate. You can rent a conference room or space in another firm for this purposes. That way you can seem to have an office for […]

The Bar Exam is Soon and I am Flipping Out? What Should I Do?

Question: I am freaking out over the bar exam in one week. What should I do? Hi there. First, take a deep breath, be assured you are far from the only person in this position. Things aren’t hopeless.  Especially if you have a good brain in your head, a good head on your shoulders, and […]