Running out of things to do? Just kidding. But in case you are, here are some projects to consider for the last quarter of the year. Financial Review and Budgeting: a. Review the year-to-date financial statements to assess the firm's financial health. b. Prepare a budget for the upcoming year, considering revenue, expenses, and capital investments. c. Ensure all client … [Read more...] about 15 projects for the last quarter of the year
Compliance
What you should know about the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to implement the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA). The NPRM was posted by the Federal Register for public inspection on Aug. 7, 2023 and published in the Federal Register on Aug. 11, 2023. The NPRM is available at … [Read more...] about What you should know about the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
How to create a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community in your law office
As a law office manager, it is your responsibility to foster a workplace environment that values diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all individuals. Creating a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community is not only a legal and ethical imperative but also a reflection of your commitment to equality. This article aims to provide you with practical strategies and … [Read more...] about How to create a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community in your law office
Non-compete agreements and deceiving your employer
By Lynne Curry Question: I was so stoked when the premier firm in my area of professional services hired me that I did something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I told my former manager what I thought of her. She ordered me to leave her company immediately. No problem, I had a new job to go to. I also had my entire future mapped out. I’d work for my new employer … [Read more...] about Non-compete agreements and deceiving your employer
Where do I go from here? Advancement opportunities for law office managers
As a dedicated law office manager, you play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of your firm. From overseeing administrative tasks to managing personnel and finances, your skills and expertise are invaluable. However, have you ever wondered what lies beyond your current position? Here's a look at career opportunities available for law office managers, highlighting … [Read more...] about Where do I go from here? Advancement opportunities for law office managers
The nomadic remote employee: Employee dream, employer nightmare
By Lynne Curry Question: Several of our employees regularly travel out of state. Before the pandemic, they took vacations for several days or weeks. They and we understood they were on vacation. The situation was clear cut. Our current team includes three employees who want to travel and stay for weeks or even months, in places like Hawaii and Thailand or with relatives. … [Read more...] about The nomadic remote employee: Employee dream, employer nightmare
Learn to recognize and avoid burnout
Law office management can be a stressful occupation as it involves financial and compliance responsibilities and balancing the needs of partners, associates, staff and clients in a fast-paced environment. Here are some tips for law office administrators on why they might suffer burnout, how to recognize it, and what they can do to prevent and deal with it. Understand the … [Read more...] about Learn to recognize and avoid burnout
Compliance and conduct rules for selling a law practice
By Brenda A. Barnes Selling the practice is one of the possible routes to law firm succession. For a law office administrator helping create a succession plan, here are some things to consider: According to ABA Rule 1.17 Sale of Law Practice, “A lawyer or a law firm may sell or purchase a law practice or an area of law practice, including goodwill, if the following … [Read more...] about Compliance and conduct rules for selling a law practice
Model Policy: Nondiscrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy and Complaint Procedure
This model policy establishes guidelines and procedures to help you ensure that all employees can work in an environment free from unlawful harassment, discrimination and retaliation. … [Read more...] about Model Policy: Nondiscrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy and Complaint Procedure
What does FMLA require of a law office employer?
One of the employment laws that affect how you manage your staff is the The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This is a federal law that requires certain employers to provide their employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for certain qualifying reasons. These reasons include the birth or adoption of a child, the care of a family member with a … [Read more...] about What does FMLA require of a law office employer?