Question
I am thinking about adding a new practice area like litigation to my firm, any suggestions how to start?
Answer
If you are a solo or small firm owner adding a new practice area can be both exciting and terrifying.
The big fears include making mistakes that impact the lives of others, and having to call Lawpro or your insurance provider if you make a mistake.
Whether you decide to hire someone to help your firm provide this service or take on the role yourself, there are some simple things you can do to prepare.
How to add a new practice area
The good thing is law school should have prepared you to become a subject matter expert on any topic within 3 days. You can binge read every case on substantive issues and get up to speed so to speak on pretty much any topic or area of law.
The risk is in the service level, the outcomes, the nuances in the space, it’s almost like learning a new language or joining a new community.
Where do I start when preparing?
Here’s what I would do:
- Find a senior lawyer/mentor – having someone in that practice area on speed-dial if needed or someone to take co-carriage of a file with you is a great way to learn. Most senior lawyers are happy to give back. If you are stuck call the LSO’s Coach and Advisor Network and ask for an advisor (not a coach).
- Research and take a CPD course – staying current on substantive issues is great, but most CPDs usually have a component of learning in response to questions or sharing of experiences that also add to learning whether procedural or otherwise. Take two or three to start.
- Sign up for big-law newsletters on the topic – a great way to stay current in the space is to sign up for a newsletter of some of the larger firms. Dentons, Osler, and the others all produce ongoing newsletters with updates on specific subject matter. These are great resources to stay current on trends, caselaw and new developments.
- Find a podcast and listen regularly – there are endless podcasts on endless topics – law is no different. Find one and listen to it in the car, or while working out or whenever.
- Make a list of the skills you need to develop – determine what gaps need to be filled – ie. If you are planning to litigate perhaps you need to bone up on cross-examinations or discovery skills – find learning resources to help you.
The most important thing is building your confidence through learning. Consider starting small, with a specific topic of interest first, maybe something just outside your comfort zone but within grasp.
Remember it’s ok to ask for help. The learning curve can be a fun and exciting challenge so enjoy the process.
This article first appeared on Law360.ca.
Joseph Chiummiento is a securities lawyer, coach and mentor to solo and small law firm owners, and a former bencher of the Law Society of Ontario. He can be reached by email at joseph@chiummiento.com