When a staff member leaves the law office, it’s important to ensure a smooth and secure transition. This checklist will help you cover all the necessary steps for offboarding a departing staff member, whether they are leaving voluntarily or due to termination. 1. Documentation and Communication Collect Resignation Letter or Termination Notice Ensure that the … [Read more...] about Checklist: When a staffer departs
Managing staff
HR question: Political gear at work
By Lynne Curry Question: Our problems started in September. Four guys in the warehouse started wearing Camo “Make American Great Again” hats. Two weeks later, they installed in a handmade sign inside the warehouse door that said, “This is Trump Country.” It didn’t bother anyone, or so we thought. But apparently it did. Ten days later, two women in the accounting … [Read more...] about HR question: Political gear at work
Recruiting, hiring, and onboarding a records manager
Hiring a records manager for your law office is a critical task. A good records manager ensures your firm’s sensitive legal documents are properly organized, stored, and compliant with all regulatory requirements. From maintaining digital archives to overseeing physical files, the role demands precision and confidentiality. Here’s how to effectively recruit, hire, and onboard … [Read more...] about Recruiting, hiring, and onboarding a records manager
Sample Policy: Halloween Costumes
Creating a policy for dressing up for Halloween in a law office is important to ensure that employees maintain professionalism while still having the opportunity to enjoy the holiday. Here's a suggested policy: [Law Office Name] Halloween Dress-Up Policy Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to allow employees to participate in Halloween festivities while maintaining a … [Read more...] about Sample Policy: Halloween Costumes
Should your staff wear costumes on Halloween?
Chances are someone on your staff is at this very minute planning a wildly inappropriate costume to wear to the office on Halloween. While Halloween can be a festive and enjoyable occasion, the legal profession demands a high level of professionalism and decorum. Here we consider the pros, and cons of permitting Halloween costumes in a law office, along with essential … [Read more...] about Should your staff wear costumes on Halloween?
Employers need to come to grips with employees’ mental health struggles
By Lynne Curry “I’m not my employees’ babysitter, their mommy, or their therapist,” the CEO insisted. The problem that led to his call—his company’s 2024 employee survey revealed large numbers of his company’s employees expected mental health benefits. “What are these employees thinking?” he asked. “We offer a generous sick leave allowance and they’re asking for paid … [Read more...] about Employers need to come to grips with employees’ mental health struggles
Managing policies, technology, and support systems for remote and hybrid work
The world of work has undergone a significant transformation, and like many, your law office is probably embracing remote and hybrid work models. As the person who keeps everything running smoothly, you play a crucial role in making this transition successful. Let's talk about how you can effectively implement and manage the necessary policies, technology, and support systems … [Read more...] about Managing policies, technology, and support systems for remote and hybrid work
The breakroom saga: a true story with a surprise ending
By Lynne Curry Stay tuned for this week’s exciting episode of The Breakroom Sagas. If your office’s breakroom is a hotbed of unresolved conflict, you’ll recognize these characters and their dramas. . At 3 p.m., “Harry” exploded into the manager’s office because someone swiped his turkey and cheese sandwich. According to Harry, one bite would have convinced anyone … [Read more...] about The breakroom saga: a true story with a surprise ending
Stay on top of these key HR issues in your law office
Top HR issues in a law office often revolve around the unique challenges of managing a professional, high-pressure environment. Here are some of the most common HR concerns law office managers face and how to stay on top of them: Recruitment and Retention of Talent Challenge: Attracting and retaining skilled attorneys, paralegals, and support staff is crucial but … [Read more...] about Stay on top of these key HR issues in your law office
Do you make your employees want to stay?
By Lynne Curry Your employees are leaving, because they want better opportunities. What are you giving them? If it’s not better opportunities, you’ll lose them. Here’s what you need to consider: Do you pay your employees what they’re worth? If you can’t afford competitive compensation, do you compensate by giving employees flexibility and autonomy, allowing … [Read more...] about Do you make your employees want to stay?