The Business of Legal

Mary Juetten’s second book, The Business of Legal: The Data-Driven Law Practice, draws from her business, accounting, and consulting background to provide advice for lawyers looking to improve their firms. Again written in plain English, with simple case studies, Juetten creates a roadmap for attorneys and other legal technicians use data and process to drive change. In fact, any professional who works with clients can use the approach to create a data-driven successful practice.

The Business of Legal explains how lawyers can collect data; analyze processes; and implement change; all required to compete and succeed in today’s challenging market. This case study applies to firms of almost all sizes and in any country. From goal setting to identifying problems, the book follows a firm that is trying to improve their new client development process. Juetten explores the client-centric requirement of all services and professions today as an integral part of the successful law practice today.

The topics include not only data and profitability but also how to evaluate clients for an ideal financial fit and firm cash management. Accounting principles and the need for tracking time are explored to maximize the impact of that important data. A second case study reviews some of the unique challenges faced by solo who are just starting their firms. Compensation and how a firm should keep track or score of data and metrics are also included. 

While the laws may differ, the core of business and management is universal. Juetten’s book is not just for tech-savvy lawyers. In fact, learn the concepts in this book before trying to solve your problems with technology.