Building and Managing a Virtual Law Firm

February 10, 2011
11:55 a.m. – 2:15 p.m.
2.25 MCLE hours, including 2.25 approved Professional Responsibility MCLE credit hours
Presented by Law Office Management and Economics, Standing Committee on

Chicago
ISBA Chicago Regional Office
20 S. Clark St, Suite 900
(map and directions)

Consistently delivering exceptional client service in a cost-effective economical manner (while providing the law firm owner or partners with a reasonable level of profit) is one of the best ways that law firms can manage the overall client experience and improve loyalty and retention of clients, lawyers, and staff. Many law firms are discovering that they can reduce their overhead and increase their reach and flexibility by implementing various virtual law firm/office approaches. This program provides insights and tips on building and managing a virtual law firm or office. Topics include: meeting with clients and communicating with team members; reasons to consider a virtual office; performance management; virtual staff; electronic security; insurance considerations; virtual practice trends; and much more. A discussion on the myriad of professional, ethical and management issues that arise in this unique environment is also provided. 
 
 
Can’t attend the live program in Chicago?
Then join us on the web! The seminar will broadcast live via webcast, allowing attorneys to attend remotely! For more information and to register, please visit: http://isba.fastcle.com/store/seminar/seminar.php?seminar=6777
 
 
 
Program Coordinator:
John W. Olmstead, Olmstead & Associates, St. Louis
 
Program Moderator:
Dawn Wall, Costigan & Wollrab, PC, Bloomington
 
 
 

Agenda

11:55 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Welcome and Introductions
Dawn Wall, Costigan & Wollrab, PC, Bloomington
 
12:00 – 12:30 p.m. What is a Virtual Practice?
This segment explains the primary features of a “virtual practice” and discusses various management issues an attorney must consider before launching a virtual law firm. Topics include meeting with clients, communicating with team members, and performance management. Virtual practice trends, models, and formats are also explored.
John W. Olmstead, Olmstead & Associates, St. Louis
 
12:30 – 1:00 p.m. Professional and Ethical Issues*
In this segment, the speaker discusses the unique professional and ethical risks that arise when managing a virtual practice.
Mary F. Andreoni, Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Commission, Chicago
 
1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Panel Discussion
Throughout this panel presentation, the speakers offer practical advice and tips for managing a virtual law firm – from IT platforms and virtual staff to online security, insurance considerations, and file/record issues.
Mary F. Andreoni, Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Commission, Chicago
John W. Olmstead, Olmstead & Associates, St. Louis
Peter R. Olson, The Olson Law Firm LLC, Chicago
Dawn Wall, Costigan & Wollrab, PC, Bloomington (moderator)
Alan S. Wernick, FSB FisherBroyles, Chicago
 
2:00 – 2:15 p.m. Question & Answer
Dawn Wall, Costigan & Wollrab, PC, Bloomington