4 characteristics of a great law firm
There is no single business model for a successful law practice. Some are high street based and specialise in advising local families with a variety of legal issues. Others are based in the City and advise international businesses. However, the successful ones tend to have certain characteristics in common and these are the things that clients should look for in a law firm and in a solicitor.
1. A clear business strategy
Many of the successful legal practices have a clear definition of services offered and clearly define their client base. This enables them to avoid undertaking work that is outside of their area of expertise, and focus on building real depth within defined areas. A clear strategy should be communicated to staff and to clients, clearly outlining the direction of the practice and how they can assist.
2. Standing out from the crowd
Legal services are a competitive market, so firms need to show what makes them different. That might be specialist knowledge, a particular way of working, a focus on a sector or the values they promote. A clear identity attracts the right clients and builds trust and loyalty over time. A London law firm, such as https://www.forsters.co.uk/, can help with many different aspects of the law.
3. Putting clients first
Successful firms put clients at the centre of everything they do. That means clear information about costs, realistic advice about likely outcomes, prompt communication and reliable service. Client feedback matters, and surveys and regular check-ins help firms improve and adapt to changing needs. As the Law Society of England and Wales notes, strong client care is essential for lasting relationships.
Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in England and Wales. Their rules cover the information about costs that clients must be given and how clients can complain. A firm that is open about these things from the outset is usually one that takes client care seriously.
4. Clients belong to the firm
A good practice treats all of its customers as customers of the whole practice, not just of individual lawyers. So a family owned business needing property, employment and tax advice, as well as assistance with a dispute, would be well served by a joined-up practice that can call upon a team of experts. This allows for continuity of service should a particular individual be absent from work or have left the practice.
What to look for when choosing a law firm
| Quality | What it looks like in practice |
|---|---|
| Clear focus | Experience in your type of matter |
| Transparency | Clear information on fees and likely costs |
| Communication | Named contact, regular updates, plain language |
| Breadth | Colleagues to call on for related issues |
| Accountability | Regulated, with a clear complaints procedure |
Frequently asked questions
How can I check a solicitor is regulated?
Find a solicitor on the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s (SRA) register of solicitors and law firms or via the Law Society’s Find a Solicitor service. All regulated solicitors must carry Professional Indemnity Insurance and are required to conduct themselves in line with the SRA’s Code of Conduct to protect the interests of their clients.
What should I ask at the first meeting with a law firm?
Ask who will be dealing with your matter on a day to day basis, what experience they have of dealing with similar cases, how their fees are calculated, what their estimated overall cost will be and how frequently they will be updating you. A good firm will be able to answer these questions clearly and set out the key points in writing.
Where to go next
Considering online tools before you speak to a lawyer? Read our look at whether AI is blurring legal advice.
