Main Responsibilities of a Partner Attorney at a Small Law Firm
John's main responsibility is "servicing clients" by providing cost-effective legal solutions and "unvarnished truth," but a significant portion of the role involves managing a small team; John's long-term employee retention, attributing it to a kind management style demonstrates a commitment to a positive work environment and team building, which ultimately fosters loyalty and longevity within the firm.
Client Service, People Management, Business Management, Long-Term Career Development, Work-Life Balance
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
John Fricks
Partner/attorney
Small Law Firm
Cal Poly
Boston University law degree (J.D.)
Computer Science
Law
Legal
Video Highlights
1. Client service and cost-effective legal solutions are top priorities.
2. Building and maintaining positive working relationships with staff is crucial for long-term success.
3. Selecting the right partners and ensuring the firm's continued operation are essential for leadership roles within a small law firm
Transcript
What are your main responsibilities within your current role?
Mostly to service my clients. While it's good to be your own boss, I actually have about 75 bosses in some ways. You try to manage client expectations regarding how quickly you work and get things done.
My goal is to service my clients and offer cost-effective legal solutions or trial representation, giving them the unvarnished truth. That's the professional aspect, something you can do as a non-partner or an employee.
I also have to manage people. I'm not the best at it, but I am a kind boss. I've never yelled at or snapped at anyone to the point of tears.
This is partly why we recently made an associate attorney a partner. She was my associate for 17 years, and most people don't want to stay in jobs that long anymore. My secretary has been with us for 16 years, and our other two associates have been here for 12 and 18 years.
You treat people well, realize it's a marathon, not a sprint, and end up with a happier social structure in the office. Picking a great partner is key, and then you just make sure the doors stay open. I'm not a big, special manager, but you do have to manage a little bit.
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