We’ve Got Your Back! When Times Are Tough, Turn to the ASB and See How These Special Programs Can Help
Your membership in the ASB can be even more valuable during this economic downturn because the Alabama State Bar supports you and your law practice with services and materials furnished by the Practice Management Assistance Program, Lawyer Assistance Program, Lawyer Referral Service and Volunteer Lawyers Program. To aid those members who find themselves in a career transition, we have created a special page (see article below). Remember the ASB Web site provides you with access to resources that help support your practice. No matter where you are in your career, the Alabama State Bar is here to assist you!
Taking the Next Steps on Your Career Path
If you're one of the many lawyers looking for a new job or new direction, the Alabama State Bar's Resources for Tough Times Web portal has information that can help you take the next steps along your career path. Weathering the economic storm facing the legal profession requires making use of the full panoply of resources available to ASB members. This new site contains links offering valuable information in seven critical areas: finding or offering a new job; finding new clients; getting help for stress or depression; improving your practice; updating your skills, staying connected; and increasing your financial savings. If you are making the transition as a displaced lawyer we hope you will find this material to be of value as you seek new career opportunities.
Law degrees are versatile
One of the best things about a law degree is its versatility, and as you transition—or consider transitioning—to a new career—it's important to remember the exceptional number of choices open to you.
You may want to explore going solo or you may want to set up a related business such as legal writing or research. You may want to do a lot of networking or you may want to use the Internet to find contract work while you determine what you want to do next.
Is solo practice an option?
For many lawyers, going solo is an option. An article, "Smart First Steps in Going Solo," outlines the how, what and when of setting up your own practice. If you're already a solo practitioner, you may want to consider the 10 steps you can take to help weather the recession or you may want to investigate the 25 value-added free services you can offer your clients.
If you want to look at other options, an article, "Exploring Alternate Careers for Lawyers," asks the questions that will help you identify the passions and motives you need to consider. The article will help you separate external forces from the internal motivations that can lead to your personal success.
For those who want to branch out, either as solo practitioners or by setting up another business, understanding the process involved is critical. An article, "Let Your Business Plan Guide You," offers information for starting or running a business.
New Online ABA Resource Helps Lawyers Survive Tough Economy
In this difficult economy, lawyers can get help with their careers, their practices and their well-being with just a mouse click. The American Bar Association's new Economic Recovery Resources Web Portal offers a wide range of assistance for coping with tough times, including information on job searching, personal development and career transition, law practice management tips, handling stress, and more.
The Web site offers an array of resources including:
- Practical advice from ABA publications, such as ABA Journal articles on what to do if you've been laid off and how to make over your résumé;
- Links to law practice tools, including 10 tips on building a better clientele, guidance on successful practice development and stressing the importance of effective client screening in a tough economy; and
- References to relevant books, CDs and continuing legal education programs, such as 50 Financial Tips to Help You and Your Firm Survive and Thrive in a Down Economy and How to Start and Build a Law Practice.
An evolving site, the easy-to-navigate Economic Recovery Resources Web Portal will expand as new resources are added regularly.
