It’s rare that an attorney (or anybody, for that matter), stays at the same job with the same company for the entirety of his or her career. Our career arc covers most of our lives, and plays as significant a role in our personal development as much as our professional development. If you go home at night questioning whether you are passionate about what you do, or unable to envision your hard work now leading to your “dream practice,” it might be time to consider making a change. Of course, this is not an easy, or even welcome, decision. It is very personal and life-changing, and going through with the change requires hard work and planning. But it is a decision that must be made.
After leaving my old law firm after 18 years to start Levinson and Stefani, I was invited by Susan Cartier Liebel, the Founder & CEO of Solo Practice University, to speak on my experience. Today, my lecture, From Big Law to Solo – Guest Lecture with Ken Levinson, is available online at Solo Practice University and is free to listen to.
In the 44 minute lecture, I discuss how to leave a law firm graciously, gratefully, and without burning bridges so that your experience is a positive one. The discussion touches on some of the following subjects:
- Why you should leave your firm
- Tips for leaving and starting up new
- Getting your “planning” team together
- Ethical issues facing a partner leaving a firm
- Client retention
- Avoiding litigation and other distractions
Listen now or download the lecture to play back on your phone or iPod. I hope you find the conversation helpful in your journey to your dream firm. Best of luck!