1. Get a scanner. A *good* one. It won’t take much searching on-line to find the brand many lawyers swear by (I don’t want to product pitch here). A fast, reliable scanner with Acrobat is worth every cent.

2. I recently signed a contract with Westlaw for Westlaw Next. I, too, once had a preference for Lexis. But I have found recently that you can negotiate with West as well, and they are becoming more “solo friendly”. I also found that Next (in my opinion and experience) has passed Lexis in terms of usability. Many may still prefer Lexis–personal preference is really important in research products, I think. But for those of us a few years out who have experience with the “old” Westlaw, it is well worth making sure to evaluate Next as you look at what research tool is right for you.

3. I cannot recommend local bar associations enough. As a solo, the greatest resource I’ve got (aside from paying clients who like to refer my services) are the other solo/small firm practitioners in my area. Join your local/state bar associations, and save your money with the ABA.

Just my .02…

Great thoughts. I fully agree with do what works and keep what you need and jettison what you don’t. I am a proponent of the office outside of the home. However, my situation is different from yours. I was 13 years into practice when i went solo. I had clients that followed and I am also constitutionally incapable of working efficiently from home.
This is great advice. Keep it up.