Network of Small, Midsize Firms Look for Opportunity in Hard Times

Network of Small, Midsize Firms Look for Opportunity in Hard Times
It is always nice to read an article that supports your views. This article comments on the virtues of law firm networks, and I completely agree. Good law firm networks are formalized and structured "best friends" relationships that are maintained in large part by a professional staff at the network level. Of course, as with any best friends relationship, you get out of the relationship what you put into it. The same is true of law firm networks. You get out of them what you put into them. Thus, there are still costs to maintaining a firm's presence in a law firm network. These costs include, network dues, the cost of attending network meetings, and the costs of participating in network sponsored programs and activities. All things considered, however, these costs are usually less than those required to maintain a series of ad hoc best friends relationships.

Mapping the Legal Globe

Mapping the Legal Globe
This looks like a very worthwhile project that anyone interested in the delivery of legal services internationally should definitely follow and support. One thing that needs much closer study is the belief that only the largest law firms can successfully enter the international arena. I do not subscribe to that view, but there is no formal evidence that suggests that small firms can be successful as well. With more study of the means and methods of delivering international legal services, I suspect that it will be possible to demonstrate that most firms can enjoy an international practice, if they have the right skill sets and the right mix of "best friends" or law firm network connections.

BigLaw Firm Breaks Out the Good China

BigLaw Firm Breaks Out the Good China
It is good to see more articles about firms forming alliances and opening offices and fewer articles about staff reductions, pay cuts, and law firm closings. At the end of the day, a large part of the future of the practice of law rests with international practice, and those firms who have remained true to their commitment to enhance their ability to practice internationally will be much better off for it.

BigLaw Firm Takes Lateral Hiring Spree Across the Pond

BigLaw Firm Takes Lateral Hiring Spree Across the Pond
There may be several interesting old and new trends in this article. The old trend is the continuing mobility of lawyers at the top of their profession. The new trend is that some firms obviously think better times are coming and are getting ready for them. Greenberg Traurig obviously is not troubled by the current economic climate and must obviously think the worst it behind us. Let's hope they are right.