Solo Practice University® Guest Lectures

Launch Pad – Building a Go-To-Market Plan for a New Law Firm – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 12:29:40 +0000

There's your marketing plan and then there is your Go-To-Market Plan. The two combined are the two sides of the same marketing coin but different. How do you build your brand, spread the word in those first 60-90 days after opening your doors? How do you generate buzz, get eyeballs on what you are doing? Today we discuss everything you need for those first 60-90 days! Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Let’s Learn the Ethics of Using AI…for Lawyers (Part 2) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 14 May 2025 10:51:39 +0000

The AI learning journey continues. You can also listen to Part 1 linked in the post.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

You Think You Know How to Construct A Fee Agreement? Think, Again! – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 07 May 2025 11:27:38 +0000

Yes. You think you know it all. Guess what. You don't. This is a very important topic and one many solos fail to grasp. They do not get all that flows from this agreement and how it can impact your practice. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Here’s a Down and Dirty List of 60 Productivity Apps For Solos – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Sun, 04 May 2025 11:21:06 +0000

What's better than a quick down and dirty list of 60 productivity apps for solos! And it's even better because Jared Correia is presenting it in his special way. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Relying Only on Referrals to Grow Your Business? WRONG! – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 12:02:12 +0000

Referrals are the gold standard of business. However, there are many more ways to grow your business outside of referrals especially in today's world. You really need to change your thinking and look under rocks you never thought to life. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Solos Can Avoid Failing Their New Year’s Business Resolutions – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 01:06:58 +0000

New Year's means making all kinds of resolutions that fail within 10 minutes. Well, solos make resolutions for their practices, too. In today's podcast Jared Correia discusses the most common business 'New Year's' resolutions solos make and action steps to help them keep those resolutions. As always it is fun and filled with great info. Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How To Deal With Client Reviews – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 11:42:43 +0000

Client reviews are a fact of life. In today's online world of forever reviews you must learn how to deal with them. Today, Jared and I discuss the ins and outs of negotiating this ongoing issue. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

All That’s New With Legal Ethics and AI (Artificial Intelligence) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 15:22:30 +0000

Jared and I take you through all that happened over the summer with legal ethics and AI as determined by various jurisdictions. There was a lot to discuss so listen and learn!! It's a fun podcast, too.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Let’s Learn the Ethics of Using AI…For Lawyers (Part 2) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 29 May 2024 11:52:33 +0000

In Part 2 of this podcast, Jared and I continue our wild ride through the ethics of using Artificial (or Alternative) Intelligence in your law practice as we encounter AI hallucinations, pitfalls and legal traps. (We cover such a wide swath it takes up two podcasts). And, like is our tradition, we wander into some fantastical tangents on the future of AI, too. Join us and learn what you definitely need to know as you incorporate this powerful tool into your legal practice.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Let’s Learn the Ethics of Using AI…for Lawyers (Part 1) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 21 May 2024 14:26:38 +0000

In this podcast, Jared and I take you on a wild ride through the ethics of using Artificial (or Alternative) Intelligence in your law practice as we encounter AI hallucinations, pitfalls and legal traps. We cover such a wide swath it takes up two podcasts. And, like is our tradition, we wander into some fantastical tangents on the future of AI, too. Join us and learn what you definitely need to know as you incorporate this powerful tool into your legal practice.future of AI, too. Join us and learn what you definitely need to know as you incorporate this powerful tool into your legal practice.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Do You Market A New Law Firm or Relaunch Your Current Firm? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 16:50:19 +0000

How do you launch a new law firm? What is your 'go to market plan' for your solo practice? Or, if you are relaunching how do you tackle marketing in an effective way? Jared shares an abundance of information to help you meet your goals. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How to Hire & Retain Talent in 2024 and Beyond – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 13:45:53 +0000

You are not having problems with getting the work. But you ARE having problems getting the talent to help you produce that work, service these clients. It's not an uncommon dilemma. Post-pandemic it's become an employee-centric market meaning those who are out looking for the jobs have all the power. How do you hire in this environment? How do you get the quality talent? What do you have to offer to get the good people to help your practice grow. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Wow! Why Lawyers Need to Cold Contact and How To Do It Effectively – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:57:27 +0000

Do lawyers needs to cold call? Seriously? Yes. In today's environment lawyers need to have a robust program for cold calling and how you can do it effectively and efficiently and without violating the rules against solicitation. Yes...listen to this. You will be glad you did.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Days of Future Passed – Law Practice in 2025 (Part 6) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 13:46:23 +0000

We are concluding this incredible series of Days of Future Passed – Law Practice in 2025 discussing meeting clients’ new demands of you and your practice including implementing: Efficiences Data Security KPIs Analytics Collaboration Sharing Embedding Outside Counsel If you are looking to build your presence with a serious marketing effort that is progressive, you’ll […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Magic of Key Performance Indicators (Part 2) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 12:49:41 +0000

In part 1 we discovered the magic of KPIs, basically analytics for Attorneys. Sounds dry (even I thought so when Jared presented the topic) but I soon learned it isn't. It's quite fascinating because at the end of the day it is measuring whether what you are doing is working and it's not cookie cutter. You can create measurements for anything you are doing so it is also quite creative. So, let's get to it and learn more!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Magic of Key Performance Indicators (Part 1) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 12:34:44 +0000

The acronym KPI (Key Performance Indicators) often strikes terror in the uninitiated lawyer. However, they are not only nothing to fear but a simple documentable measure you should embrace. KPIs are simply measurements of performance and they can measure anything you are doing; how many clients you close from leads, your collection rate, the number of cases you handle per month, etc. Once you understand you have all these measurable activities already available to you through the tools you use in your practice today (like your case management software) and actually start using them, your practice will only become more efficient and be more profitable. Put your fear aside, listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Do I Take a Vacation As A Solo Practitioner? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 10:34:43 +0000

It's that time of year...or any time of year you want and need to get away to regroup and refresh, spend time with family. After all, isn't this one of the perks of solo/small firm practice? Owning your own time? Listen as Jared gives his expert advice on how to take that well needed vacation.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Days of Future Passed – Law Practice in 2025 (Part 5) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 31 May 2023 11:13:42 +0000

In Part 5 of this great series, we will discuss what legal marketing will look like in the not too distant future. This will include: Paid Verification Video & Audio Content Short Form Content Virtual Reality Meta Verse(s) Community-Focused Networking Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Rise of the Machines – Is AI Ready To Impact Your Solo Law Firm – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 16 May 2023 11:34:13 +0000

This is a MUST LISTEN podcast. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and now Generative AI has hit the world like a meteor and the consequences are and will continue to be profound. You may be more familiar with the term ChatGPT because it is spreading like a contagion. Today we are going to talk about how you can either take advantage of Generative AI, or be left behind. And you don't want to be left behind because when used properly, Generative AI can save you and your solo/small firm immeasurable amounts of time and money while making you more profitable. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Days of Future Passed – Law Practice in 2025 (Part 4) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 11:46:49 +0000

In part four we are going to look at trends in law firm ‘employees’ and we use the term very broadly. Why broadly? Because we need to look at the role of non-lawyers, AI (Artificial Intelligence) as an ‘employee’, Technology as an ‘employee’. Yes, we have to expand the term ‘employee’ because the world is changing rapidly. So, join us. It will be informative as always.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Days of Future Passed – Law Practice in 2025 (Part 3) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 12:37:57 +0000

We are coming to the end of the 2nd Wave of Legal Tech. Yes, I know. You've only just started embracing the first wave of legal tech! But it is happening fast and you need to catch up. We will be discussing what is and will be happening in front office technology, consolidation of software, 'behavior' automation and so much. Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Days of Future Passed – Law Practice in 2025 – (Part 2) Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:31:30 +0000

In Part 2 of our series, Days of Future Passed - Law Practice in 2025, we will discuss two critical topics; what will it mean to actually be a lawyer in 2025 and how will we price our services and collect on those fees. What are the clients' expectations of who we are and how they should value our services? It's a truly provocative and informative conversation. Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

New Series: Days of Future Passed – Law Practice in 2025 – (Part 1) – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 13:27:53 +0000

Enjoy our New Series - Days of Future Passed - What Will Law Firms Look Like in 2025, Part 1 In this first installment we will discuss the law firm business structure in all its incarnations, how this impacts your employees, vendors and much more. Will we see the Amazon model of law firms? It is more in-depth and surprising than you might imagine including sales people, referral fees. Will we see the demise of the solo practitioner? This is info you will need which ever direction you may go. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Networking in a Pandemic and Post-Pandemic World – Have We Lost Something and Don’t Even Know It? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 12:52:20 +0000

Lawyers fundamentally know the importance of networking. Newer lawyers growing in their practices these past few years know it in theory but haven't experienced the value of in-person events for making connections. In this pandemic/post-pandemic world are we losing something of value we don't realize in exchange for rationalizing the convenience (and some would argue safety) of connecting on line? This is an important discussion for lawyers, conference organizers, educators and more. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How to Get Great SEO Without Actually Paying For It – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 11:50:25 +0000

This is a very 'sexy' topic, or we at least think so. How do you get great Search Engine Optimization (SEO) without paying for it. Let's face it, if you are just starting out you just can't afford it. It's cost prohibitive for your desired search terms or queries. We talk about some great workarounds to help you get there. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Has the Definition of Professionalism Changed? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 11:00:14 +0000

Should professionalism be defined by others...or by you? Jared and I dig into this important question and we come at it from our typical unplugged perspective. We believe you'll find it both enlightening and liberating. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Scourge of ‘Busy’-ness – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 10:53:10 +0000

We all think we are so busy all the time. We have no time for anything. We are exhausted.We abandon self-care, projects that need attending, And as busy as we are, we accomplish less and less. How does this impact your solo practice, your growth both personal and professional, your income? Is it classic avoidance? Lack of structure? Listen and learn how to avoid busy-ness and tackle the important tasks and feel accomplished in your solo practice..and your life.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Ready to Hire But Don’t Know How? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 18 May 2022 11:31:21 +0000

Today's employee is not your father's employee. The hiring market is hot but do you know what employees want today? I'm guessing no. It's a whole new world out there and you had best understand the post-Covid hiring requirements for today's employees. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Lawyers Can Retain More of Their Earnings – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 12 May 2022 11:09:24 +0000

What is your ultimate goal? To retain more of your earnings, right? Today Jared and I talk about six different strategies, not complex, which need to be consistently applied. Learn about these simple options you can execute on to make your financial goals a reality. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Is It Time to Bring in Non-Lawyers To Build Your Business? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 12:13:31 +0000

This is such a forward-thinking podcast. We're talking professional law firm management, bringing in non-lawyers to do those business-growth tasks to take you to the next level in the 21st century. As always, we wander into the stratosphere and you will enjoy the ride. I promise.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Is Creating a Virtual Workforce the Future? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 12:17:50 +0000

Is creating a virtual workforce the future of law practice? Why is creating a virtual workforce not getting the attention it deserves in the legal community? Is it the lawyer's personality? The incessant need to micromanage employees? Is it not knowing how to manage a virtual workforce? But what do you do in a crisis, a hurricane, a wildfire, a pandemic? Does your practice just come to a halt? We discuss at length and in depth the pros and cons and then how to overcome the cons. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

‘Billed to Last’ – Pricing Models for Law Firms in 2022 and Beyond – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 13:52:45 +0000

If a global pandemic isn't enough to get you to reimagine your law firm, including your billing model, what are you waiting for? An asteroid strike? Clearly, now is the time to rethink your billing model and start creating a sustainable client-friendly billing model which will give you both profitability and client satisfaction. The models are out there and being reimagined on the daily. The time to revisit and change your model is now. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Purpose of an Initial Consultation. It’s More Than You Think – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 13:48:40 +0000

Jared and I discuss one of our favorite topics - the Initial Consultation. While the goal is to get a new client, what you are trying to accomplish is multi-layered and it changes over the course of your legal career. This is a podcast to bookmark and keep referring to over and over, again. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Hyper-Efficiency in the Time of Pandemics & Business Interruptions – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 12:51:52 +0000

What happens in a world of unexpected business interruptions, prolonged business interruptions, life-altering business interruptions and life interruptions. This podcast was recorded earlier during the pandemic but our conversation is timeless because it discusses how to make your practice hyper-efficient all the time. Even those who have worked from home previously, this has changed, too, in a major way. Jared and I discuss the changes and how to make your practice hyper-efficient. And then ask yourself, will you keep these new changes going forward regardless. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Contrarian Marketing Tips – Marketing Outside the Box – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 13:55:28 +0000

Every one you meet will have a differing opinion on how to market your law firm. It can be exhausting and confusing. But more importantly, it can make or break your solo/small firm practice. Truly. How do you differentiate yourself? And will you? Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Will Alternative Business Structures Impact Law – 2022 Version – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 13:38:39 +0000

We've all heard about Alternative Business Structures (ABS) and how they have been kept at bay, for the most part, from changing the legal profession. Well, guess what? We predict the fortress walls will be crumbling and we even hint at who the players will be who will be allowed entry. And maybe sooner than we think. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Pandemic is Almost Over – Where Are You With Your Solo Practice?

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 09 Dec 2021 12:16:10 +0000

How has the pandemic and the fallout from the pandemic changed your feelings about your solo/small firm practice? How has it changed how you will practice going forward? This is a very important discussion because, guess what? Your clients were changed, too. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Creating a Turn-Key Law Practice from Day 1 – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 12:14:06 +0000

How do you create a turn-key law practice from the day you start practicing law? In this day and age of disruptions to society, from pandemics to snow storms to wildfires, how do you create a seamless practice which can handle these disruptions, change of personnel and more, and then be saleable by just 'handing over the key' to the practice? This is the million dollar question and the future of law practice for solo/small firms. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Why It’s a Great Time to Start a Solo/Small Firm Practice – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 12:15:12 +0000

Every situation, good or bad, we face in life presents opportunities for those who can capitalize on what is happening. It is no different for those looking to venture out in solo practice. This last year shook up the world for practically everyone. Even if you are already solo, you had to rethink how you were approaching your practice. So, join us as we discuss the opportunities!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Meeting Client Expectations In a Changed World – Guest Lecture with Tim Bedford from Ruby

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:00:45 +0000

We all know that this pandemic has really shaken things up – on both a micro & macro scale. The industry has changed, but so has day-to-day. When your dog is your coworker, your bedroom is your office and the lines of what used to be your workday are now blurred more than ever, life and work have definitely changed. But have you changed with it in order to meet client expectations? Many solo and small firms have been presented with a fight or flight scenario, and while it’s incredibly sad to see, the folks who were forced to try new things & pivot often found more success. And the overall goals haven’t changed for these solo and small firms – they want to create a sustainable business model & still have that desire for growth. Listen and Learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

#I’mNotACat Lawyer – Web Conferencing Best Practices – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 12:17:41 +0000

By now you’ve heard about the lawyer who was videoconferencing on zoom with a federal judge and couldn’t remove a cat filter. It was funny, embarrassing, and went viral. To his credit, he kept his composure. However, it has opened up an important conversation about web conferencing best practices, security, audio and video settings, and […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Working Remotely Is Here to Stay. Now it’s Time to Reimagine How You Work Virtually – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 13:35:30 +0000

The pandemic has thrust virtual work into the spotlight. While for some it's no different than pre-pandemic work, for others it is a sea change in how they conduct business. It is showcasing the financial benefits and work-life perks of remote work. But, it is also laying bare the weaknesses in our solo/small firm practices and highlighting where we all need to improve. It is critical we start reimagining working virtually from acquiring new clients to the courthouse. What will it look like a year from now? What technologies will shine and others disappear? What technologies must you implement or upgrade to stay competitive? This is a fascinating guest lecture to help you start reshaping your future work world. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How To Protect The Health of Your Practice and Yourself During a Pandemic and the Rest of Your Lives – Guest Lecture with Cynthia Sharp and Becky Howlett

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 13:00:05 +0000

Did you know the World Health Organization has classified 'Burnout' as a health issue? Did you know that burnout is not based on the number of hours you work but the quality of those hours? Cynthia Sharp and Becky Howlett founded legalburnout.com, a resource to help solo and small firm practitioners navigate the emotional roadmap of solo/small firm practice to keep you healthy and grounded through a pandemic and the rest of your lives. This information-packed podcast will have you taking action immediately to help ground you and elevate you at the same time. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How to Value & Sell Your Solo Practice – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 11:31:23 +0000

Many solos don't know how to value and sell their law firm because most solos don't understand the value of what they've created even when they are no longer a part of the firm. Listen and learn how to value and sell your solo practice. Know how to create a succession plan.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Do You Name Your Law Firm? With Difficulty. – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 30 Jun 2020 11:00:58 +0000

What's in a name? Everything. How do you build your brand with your solo/small firm name? What limitations are there for law firms? Many! This is a very interesting discussion and, as always, we have fun as we teach. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Solo/Small Firm Practice in the Age of Pandemics – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 14 May 2020 11:00:07 +0000

2020 is proving quite the year and we're only in the 2nd Quarter! What we are experiencing now is unlike anything we have seen in our lifetimes. Yet, life must go on and so must your practice. But how do you practice in the age of pandemics? Jared and I discuss the changes, the modifications, both technical and emotional. How do you pivot your marketing so as not to be insensitive but more human? What technology must you use now? How do you handle it all without falling apart? We answer these questions and more so join us. You'll be glad you did.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What Are The Ethics Surrounding Delegation of Legal Work – Guest Lecture with Cynthia Sharp

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 12:03:01 +0000

In order to grow, solos will need to delegate legal work to paralegals, administrative staff, free lance lawyers and associates and any vendor you hire on your behalf. Even hiring a marketing firm! But do you really know the ethics surrounding delegation of work you are ultimately ethically responsible for as the the owner of your law firm? This is a critically important topic. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Is the Billable Hour Finally on Its Death Bed? Who Knows? Maybe Jared Correia Does! Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 12:00:01 +0000

Is the billable hour in its final death throes? If so, how do we deal with this while we build our practices? Of course, people have been saying this since last century. Listen and learn Jared's unique take on this perennially hot button issue.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What Clients Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020 – Part 5 – Guest Lecture(s) with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 11:05:10 +0000

Jarred and I have recorded five free guest lectures covering the vast topic of What Clients Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020. It is nearly five hours of us discussing in depth how to be successful. Here is Part 5. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What Clients Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020 – Part 4 – Guest Lecture(s) with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 25 Nov 2019 12:53:00 +0000

Jarred and I have recorded six free guest lectures covering the vast topic of What Clients Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020. Here is the 4th installation. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What Clients Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020 – Part 3 – Guest Lecture(s) with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 11:00:21 +0000

Jarred and I have recorded five free guest lectures covering the vast topic of What (Clients) Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020. This is a great 6 part lecture series. enjoy Part 3 - Listen and Learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What Clients Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020 – Part 2 – Guest Lecture(s) with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 11:30:05 +0000

(You can listen to Part 1 here.) Jarred and I have recorded five free guest lectures covering the vast topic of What (Clients) Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020. It is nearly five hours of us discussing in depth: How Legal Consumers Find Law Firms What Legal Consumers Want Marketing Requirements for a Modern Law Firm […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What Clients Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020 – Guest Lecture(s) with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 12:33:24 +0000

Jarred and I have recorded five free guest lectures covering the vast topic of What (Clients) Want: Managing Legal Consumer Expectations in 2019-2020. It is nearly five hours of us discussing in depth: How Legal Consumers Find Law Firms What Legal Consumers Want Marketing Requirements for a Modern Law Firm Intake Procedures/Forms How Modern Law […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Do You Navigate Growing Pains Within Your Law Firm? Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 08 Oct 2019 10:00:51 +0000

There is a rhythm to growing a solo/small firm practice. Usually, around year three you finally feel comfortable and then it happens. You are swamped and you realize you need to grow. You are in a bit of a crisis. Listen and learn and we will share how to navigate the inevitable growing pains, not just in year three, but every other growth spurt you will experience.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Impact of the Current Boom in Legal Tech Investment on the Solo/Small Firm Lawyer – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 10:00:13 +0000

Today Jared and I discuss the multi-millions being invested in legal technology, all of which is aimed to change the practice of law. How does this investment impact your practice? Is the tail wagging the dog? Are investors telling you how to practice based upon the technology they create? Listen and then share your thoughts.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Starting a Solo Practice in Rural America – Guest Lecture with Gary Bauer

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 21 May 2019 10:00:44 +0000

Do you want to start a solo practice in a rural America? Do you want to learn how to be successful, understand the way to do it right?Who better to present a jam-packed guest lecture on this subject than Gary Bauer, lawyer and Chairman of the General Practice Solo Concentration for twenty years at WMU Cooley Law School. Gary feels very strongly there is so much potential for young (and not so young) lawyers to lives quality lives serving the legal needs of those in rural areas. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Are You Tech-Competent and Compliant With the New Rules? Guest Lecture with Jared Correia:

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 09 May 2019 12:00:26 +0000

Technology competence and compliance are more important than ever today and new rules have been put into place which you must observe. Who better to discuss how to fulfill your obligations than Jarred Correia. Listen and learn as we talk about the challenges and the solutions to this 21st century mandate for successful practice.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Solo By Design – Guest Lecture with Professor Gary Bauer

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 11:30:46 +0000

Going solo with intention and doing it the right way is going solo by design. Who better to present a jam-packed guest lecture on this subject than Gary Bauer, lawyer and Chairman of the General Practice Solo Concentration for twenty years at WMU Cooley Law School. Gary and I are kindred spirits. His information is purposeful, thoughtful and complete. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

6 Steps to Client Mastery – Part 3 – Guest Lecture with Cynthia Sharp

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 10:49:11 +0000

We welcome back Cynthia Sharp, ABA/GP Solo Rock Star for her third and final podcast on The 6 Steps to Client Mastery which now walks us through the processes (and soft skills) necessary to handle difficult clients, get your fees, conclude the matter and turn your happy clients into lifetime referral sources. This is not to be missed.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

6 Steps to Client Mastery – Part 2 – Guest Lecture with Cynthia Sharp

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 26 Feb 2019 12:47:43 +0000

Our series of guest lectures with ABA/GP Solo Rockstars continues and the inimitable Cynthia Sharp continues sharing her brilliant 6 steps to client mastery. And she is THE master in combining those intangible soft skills with the critical processes needed for guaranteeing a uniform and successful relationship with your clients. Attorney Sharp details how this relationship starts from before your clients become clients right through to those same clients becoming an endless source of referrals. You will learn that process is the key to success. It is great to get the masters of the game sharing their wisdom with all of you.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Rise of Grass Roots Online Lawyer Communities – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 12:25:36 +0000

While not too much in the main stream media, there is a grass roots movement of on line lawyer communities unaffiliated with traditional legal organizations. I bet you belong to one and don't even realize you are part of a movement! Why is this happening and where are they congregating online? Should you belong to one? Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

6 Steps to Client Mastery Part I – Guest Lecture with Cynthia Sharp

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 13:00:33 +0000

And so begins our series of guest lectures with ABA/GP Solo Rockstars. First up is the inimitable Cynthia Sharp sharing her brilliant 6 steps to client mastery. And she is THE master in combining those intangible soft skills with the critical processes needed for guaranteeing a uniform and successful relationship with your clients. Attorney Sharp details how this relationship starts from before your clients become clients right through to those same clients becoming an endless source of referrals. You will learn that process is the key to success. Join us for Part 1 of this extraordinary guest lecture.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Starting a Solo Practice in 2018 vs 2008 – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 09 Oct 2018 11:05:56 +0000

What is so different in starting a law firm in 2018 vs 2008? There are so many differences: not just in technology but the economy, marketing and financial management. Join us in this very interesting discussion. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

21st Century Methods for Onboarding Clients – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 10:00:04 +0000

How do you onboard modern clients in the 21st Century? In today's podcast you will learn about what clients value. Do they want speed, responsiveness, mobile access? Do they want intake options such as online forms, chatbots, text messaging? How do you create and respond to the client's journey from finding you through resolution? You'll learn all this more today. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Can Entrepreneurial Lawyers Fail and Survive…Even Become Successful? Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 12:59:53 +0000

We ask the single most important question - can lawyers fail and survive and go on to thrive? Our position, failure is not a bad thing. What matters is what you do after your failure. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Planning A Soft Relaunch of Your Firm is Great During Holidays – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 11 Dec 2017 12:00:11 +0000

While recorded over the summer, the sentiment remains the same over any stretch of downtime. It is great to plan soft relaunches of your firm during slow periods. Soft relaunches can include the announcement of a new employee, new website design, rebranding, any number of changes in your firm that give you a new marketing opportunity. So, listen and learn. (Oh, and enjoy Jared's heavy breathing. He gets excited for these podcasts!!)

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How to Shop for Legal Technology Solutions – Guest Lecture with Chelsey Lambert of LexTechReview

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 12:00:59 +0000

In an ever-expanding pool of Legal Technology Solutions, how do you pick the right technology for your solo/small firm? How do you address the mandatory need for cybersecurity to prevent hacking and protect your clients' data? How do you protect your livelihood in a catastrophe? Chelsey's knowledge will leave you a little breathless. Listen to this jam-packed podcast before you download her incredible her free100 page 2017 Legal Technology Buyer's Guide .

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How To Get Started Creating a Virtual Law Practice – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 11 Jul 2017 12:07:17 +0000

If you've wanted to create a virtual law practice, or 'virtualize' your law practice incrementally, this is the guest lecture for you. Learn how to get started (and the rationale why) in this nearly hour long podcast filled with invaluable information.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Making the Transition – Guest Lecture with Katie MacKillop from LEAP

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 30 May 2017 12:00:35 +0000

You know you need to transition over to more automation in your practice. You read the benefits. Lawyers you know can't say enough about the time-savings. You watch them accessing their entire office from their smartphone with a tinge of jealousy but you can't seem to move off the mark. Now you've got the added pressure of the clients demanding it, plus asking for lower costs for your services and you are getting squeezed. Rules of Professional Conduct and ABA Opinions are putting further pressure on you labeling you 'incompetent' if you don't get up to speed on all of it; e-discovery, electronic filings and more. Listen to this podcast and learn how to transition. It's important you do.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Marketing Your Law Firm For Free – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 11:15:32 +0000

What if you had to market your law firm without using any money? Literally: no money, at all. It turns out that you can develop a vibrant marketing plan without spending one cent. This guest lecture you will learn practical marketing tactics that you’ll be able to employ. Join us as we lay out specific networking and content marketing strategies to apply to your no-cost legal marketing. Learn how as Jared Correia and I discuss in this lively guest lecture.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Ever Evolving Law Firm Fee Structure – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 06 Feb 2017 13:00:56 +0000

In the late 90's and definitely into the 21st century, the law firm fee structure is morphing and changing under tremendous pressure from clients and the economy. But where do new solos (and some not-so-new) lawyers go to learn about the what fee structures are out there? Jared and I discuss the pressures and those very fee structures. Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Dealing With The Emotions Surrounding a Grievance – Guest Lecture with Karen Caffrey

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 05 Dec 2016 11:05:21 +0000

Have you ever been grieved? The odds are you will. You've planned for the actual process of addressing the grievance, maybe. But odds are you've not planned for the emotions of being grieved and how it will impact you moving forward. Join us as we talk more in depth about the root of the emotions surrounding a grievance, how it can negatively impact you and what you can do to work through them in a positive, pro-active way.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Why You Should Be Content Marketing – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 17 Oct 2016 12:24:52 +0000

How important is content marketing? It's actually incredibly important in today's marketing environment for new (and seasoned lawyers). Join us as we discuss what content marketing is, why it's important, what are the fastest, easiest, and cheapest ways to get good quality content into the universe, and what you should be writing about. As always, it's highly informative. Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How To Stop Worrying About Money. Guest Lecture with Karen Caffrey

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 12:00:18 +0000

How do we stop worrying about money? In this guest lecture we focus on the particular emotional issues of solos and their relationship to money, those who are out on their own without a steady paycheck. There is also a psychology about money which is fascinating, how we live in judgment of others and how it impacts our actions and emotions day-to-day. Why do we worry when we are somewhat comfortable? Why will we share our most intimate feelings about various topics but feel the most vulnerable talking about money, feel the most shame if we don't seem to measure up. It's all in this great guest lecture with the incomparable Karen Caffrey. Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

When Are You Most Vulnerable to Malpractice? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 29 Aug 2016 10:41:12 +0000

When are you most vulnerable to a malpractice claim, when are you least? What are the ugly malpractice monsters are rearing their heads going forward? Are you safer as a a newbie or a more seasoned professional? The answers may surprise you. But most importantly, they'll inform you to help you with your practice going forward. Join Jared and I as we discuss these surprising landmines from our unique perspective.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Are You ‘Rest’ Impaired? Guest Lecture with Karen Caffrey

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 22 Aug 2016 12:00:47 +0000

Today, psychotherapist and JD, Karen Caffrey and I take a deeper dive into understanding the psychological ramifications of not taking a vacation (meaning rest) and our own inability to even recognize we need it which compounds the harm. Join us for this highly informative adventure and maybe you'll come out resolving to take some much needed time to rest and repair. We'll explain why and then show you how.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Are You An Imposter? – Guest Lecture with Karen Caffrey

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 15 Aug 2016 11:39:49 +0000

Nearly 40% of all high-achieving people experience an observable phenomenon called ‘Imposter Syndrome’ - that feeling that you are a fraud, that you’ve fooled the world into believing you are capable and knowledgeable. And most people have experienced moments of this. This lecture is a more in-depth, companion piece to the blog post: Are You Suffering From Imposter Syndrome?. Learn more as we do a deeper dive into this important topic.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Serving the 21st Century Client Through Technology – Guest Lecture with Nicole Black

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 11:00:36 +0000

Nicole Black is the tech evangelist for MyCase. But long before she enjoyed her new position, she was a tech geek and advocate for tech in the legal space. The 21st legal consumer is different and their client service expectations are very different. If you don't know how to reach them, they are going to move on to the lawyer who does. Today, Nicole and I discuss reaching the 21st century client through technology. Learn how to be the lawyer the 21st century legal consumer will come to again, and again.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Embracing with the ‘F’ Word – Guest Lecture with Karen Caffrey

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 09 May 2016 11:48:46 +0000

Society as a whole encourages suppression of feelings. The legal profession, as a micro-culture, further encourages lawyers to suppress their feelings. What happens when feelings are suppressed to such a degree? This is a very powerful 32 minutes. We discuss lawyers and how they deal with (and don’t deal with) feelings in the practice of law. […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Is Emotional and Physical Isolation As a Solo Killing You? Guest Lecture with Karen Caffrey

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 11:44:22 +0000

Isolation will literally kill you. Yet many lawyers don't even realize they are isolated. They also don't realize there are many forms of isolation that are insidious and destructive. There is professional, personal and social isolation and you may not even understand you are isolated. Isolation is a mental health risk. Today we dig in to raise awareness in the legal community. These are very real and serious issues that have long term impact on your physical and mental health. And if this resonates with you at all, please seek out help. There are ways to manage this risk in a healthy and productive way. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Tech Efficiencies Can Help You Avoid Malpractice Claims – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 12:00:55 +0000

There is so much technology out there which can improve your practice. However, what are the major technologies you should be investing in and why? Jared and I talk about two types of technologies in this podcast: document automation and assembly software and case management software, not just a recitation of how they can improve […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Power of Networks Is Not Just For Commercial Legal Companies Anymore – Guest Lecture with Tony Lai

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 13:00:22 +0000

Amazon transformed the retail industry by networking small businesses together. It eventually replaced the individuality of each small business with it's own 'brand', Amazon. Eventually, small businesses were able to reduce their overhead further by cutting out their physical real estate, cutting employees and simply marketing and selling their goods through Amazon. This on-demand online company is a 'networked platform' and meets the customer where they are. Imagine a network for lawyers that has nothing to do with a commercially branded company, but through bar associations, or through certain law schools or an AmLaw 100 firm. Imagine a network for solos in a given state or region. Imagine a network driven by the lawyers. This is an eye-opening guest lecture which will help you to envision practicing the way you want to practice. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Mastering the Sales Re-Cycle – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 12:00:18 +0000

Do you think a signed retainer agreement is the beginning or end of your marketing to gain a client? The beginning or end of the 'sale'? Today we talk about the reality that once a client retains you it is just the beginning of the sales 're-cycle' - the continuing process of re-affirmations that the client made the right choice in selecting you as their attorney. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Will You Survive the Commoditization of Legal Services? – Guest Lecture with Debra Bruce

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 01 Feb 2016 12:00:04 +0000

Debra says she's always felt like Paul Revere trying to make lawyers understand what is transforming the law profession but it's been challenging. In this guest lecture she share her thoughts on the subject and how you can survive commoditization. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How To Develop A Service Pyramid to Deliver Stellar Client Service Every Time – Guest Lecture with Christina Burns

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 13:00:19 +0000

Christina Burns is the Director of Client Happiness at Ruby Receptionists. Ruby's understanding of customer service is so deep, their results so stellar, it is why this company is growing by leaps and bounds and you will only find they receive glowing reviews. Christina understands, and Ruby Receptionists lives and breathes, customer service. They have developed a Service Pyramid which is at the core of their client service. Today, Christina will teach you how to implement your own Service Pyramid to improve your clients' experience with your law firm. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Embracing Change – Guest Lecture with Smokeball’s Chelsey Lambert

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 13:00:20 +0000

Today we have a highly informative guest lecture with the Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Smokeball, one of our partners in helping you build your solo/small firm practice. Our conversation focuses on change, fear of change, and how to get through the process of change in order to reap the rewards on the other side. It includes assessing the current state of your law firm, how to align your attitude and vision, commit to the reward, and benchmark progress. One thing you will not hear is 'change is easy'. It's not. But it is necessary and it is doable if you want to have a successful law practice. Join us!

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Grabbing the Brass Ring in Solo Practice – Guest Lecture with Scott O’Sullivan

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 06 Oct 2015 12:00:05 +0000

Becoming a solo and building a solo/small firm practice is a different journey for everyone. However, Scott O'Sullivan, a personal injury lawyer in Colorado and also faculty at Solo Practice University, has graciously shared how he has grown his practice from a one man shop in a shared space to a 10 person firm and owning his own office building in eight years. It's not a story of magic pills and luck. It's a story of hard work, learning from mistakes, creativity, patience, persistence, and being fiscally responsible. It's a podcast you don't want to miss. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How To Get Lawyer-to-Lawyer Referrals – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 21 Sep 2015 12:00:08 +0000

Do you understand the financial power of building lawyer networks for referrals? Do you understand the importance of being a traffic hub for business, even legal matters you don't handle? Do you know how to talk with other professionals to garner referrals? Referrals for many lawyers are their lifeblood, a way to keep the pipeline filled with clients to serve. Jared and I discuss the importance of referrals in this guest lecture and we'd love for you to listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

A Must Listen Podcast: Insuring the Money Machine – Guest Lecture with Larry Dykes

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 12:24:40 +0000

This is a MUST listen podcast. I'm a firm believe in insuring the 'money machine. If you are not insuring the 'money machine' you are making a major mistake.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Legal Analytics for Solos and Small Firms – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 12:00:23 +0000

Legal Analytics, at first blush, is about as exciting to the busy solo as watching paint dry. But the truth is it is the secret to a successful practice. I know most of you immediately want to say, ‘I have no time for this.’ But you need to make time for it. Jared and I […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How To Make Speaking Work As A Marketing Strategy – Guest Lecture with Denise Hedges and Barbara Mencer

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 06 Apr 2015 12:30:46 +0000

You may have considered speaking as part of your marketing strategy but were not really sure how to go about it. More likely you are afraid you won't be an effective speaker. Well, we found THE best experts on this subject who not only know the value of speaking to increase business but can also teach you how to actually present. You will learn to not only speak well and energize your audience, but to speak effectively. Speaking effectively means converting your audience into clients and/or great referral sources.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Why Lawyers Need to Get With Encryption – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 11:30:46 +0000

Encryption is now part of your professional duty to safeguard your clients’ data. Encryption is a very techno-scary word for many lawyers. It’s intimidating, actually. But even if it is, it doesn’t mean you can bury your head in the sand, not if you are going to represent your clients responsibly. Encryption is critical when […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How to Create Teams for Legal Matters as a Solo – Guest Lecture with Ryan McKeen

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 13:30:51 +0000

Ryan McKeen of the McKeen Law Firm is back with us again. This time he shares how he can take on larger matters by creating legal teams for cases on an 'as needed' basis. This is a must-listen to guest lecture because there is a 'no man's land' between being an office of one - you - and growing into having full time staff and permanently increased overhead. Ryan shares smart and highly effective ways to grow and be profitable during the journey through 'no man's land'. Listen and learn.

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Building A (Much) Better Law Firm – Guest Lecture with Kathleen Paukert

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 13:30:34 +0000

When Kathleen Paukert first contacted me to discuss her book The Fulfilled Lawyer, my initial thought was this was another perspective on work/life balance. However, once we started to dig into her law firm’s business model I saw the future! I saw the future for solo practitioners who want to work within a collective of […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Online Security Basics for Attorneys – Guest Lecture with Deborah Gonzalez (Part 2)

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 13:30:28 +0000

As promised, here is the second part of this important and fascinating guest lecture with Deborah Gonzalez discussing online security basics for attorneys. If you’ve not listened to Part 1 yet, you can do so here. The audio is about 48 minutes. Listen directly below Deborah Gonzalez, Esq. is an attorney and the founder of […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Online Security & Risk Basics For Attorneys – Guest Lecture with Deborah Gonzalez (Part 1)

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 06 Jan 2015 13:30:37 +0000

Quite simply, this is a mind-blowing guest lecture from one of our most thought-provoking faculty, Deborah Gonzalez. This guest lecture exposes the deep and dark underbelly of the online world, the full, often-ignored exposure you have when you not only conduct business online, but are online for pleasure. This jam-packed two part guest lecture will […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Paperless Office – Guest Lecture with Ernest Svenson

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 13:41:26 +0000

I had the pleasure of finally meeting Ernie Svenson (after years of ‘knowing’ him online) and today Ernie is going to talk about the virtues, professionally and financially, of going paperless and how he did it. Frankly, anyone starting a practice today should be paperless from the start and everything done to grow the practice […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

From Big Law To Solo – Guest Lecture with Ken Levinson

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 13:30:58 +0000

How do you leave a Big Law firm or medium-sized firm when they’ve been your training ground from the start of your legal career? How do you do so ethically, responsibly and in a positive way while still keeping your clients? How do you resolve all the potential issues (and there are many)? How do […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Savvy Solo – Guest Lecture with Haley Austin

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 13:30:19 +0000

Last May, Clio ran a #Clioday contest asking lawyers how they used the time they saved because of Clio law practice management solutions. After much fanfare, a winner was picked. Haley Austin. I watched her video (which her daughter filmed and edited and you can see below) and really wanted to do a guest lecture […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Impact of Social Media on the Legal Process – Guest Lecture with Omar Ha-Redeye

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 12:30:59 +0000

Oftentimes, when we discuss social media it is in the context of how every lawyer should be using it for marketing. Not this time. Today we have Omar Ha-Redeye (who also teaches a course at Solo Practice University) discussing social media in the context of the legal process. Let’s face it, if you don’t know […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Legal Value Firm: Guest Lecture with Joe Donnini

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 07 Oct 2014 12:30:29 +0000

Our guest speaker today has a biography which simply does not do him justice. Joe Donnini is the founder of Legal Value Firm, a name you are going to be hearing a lot more of because here is a lawyer, entrepreneur and one very, very smart law school adjunct professor who has finally pieced together […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Work/Life Balance or ‘Just Life’? Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 08 Sep 2014 12:15:37 +0000

Today Jared and I discuss the elusive work/life balance equation. We differ and yet we agree on how solos and small firm practitioners are adapting to the changes in practice, and how to manage time. And it is both managing time and remaining focused on what you are doing in the moment, not multitasking. Join […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

There’s No Way to Game the System – Demystifying SEO – Guest Lecture with Conrad Saam

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 12:30:53 +0000

How do we create a web presence that actually works to bring in clients? Well, this guest lecture may actually surprise you as no one is going to sell you a high-priced web site or bedazzle you with fancy Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ‘tricks’. Why? Because you can create a good website on your own […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The DIY Solo – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 05 May 2014 12:30:23 +0000

Jared receives countless questions from new solo lawyers and solos who have been in practice for decades but need advice on law practice management. We like to ask Jared what’s on lawyers’ minds as we have several times before. If you are a new lawyer in Massachusetts or a paying member of the Massachusetts bar, […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

When Do You Need A Therapist To Help With Life?

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 14 Apr 2014 12:30:15 +0000

Here we go, again, talking about that taboo subject: Being a lawyer and admitting you need help. You don’t have to necessarily be depressed or even anxious. But sometimes you just need an objective set of ears to listen and guide, help you sort through stumbling blocks, identify patterns of behavior or just validate your […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Guest Lecture with Nora Bergman and Liz Lamar

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 12:30:58 +0000

I have a confession. When Nora Bergman and Liz Lamar first came on board as faculty teaching an in-depth Lean Six Sigma for Solos course at Solo Practice University, I thought I already knew what Lean Six Sigma was. I was so very wrong. The name is a little off-putting but since all major successful […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Managing the Process of Change – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 04 Mar 2014 13:30:23 +0000

Today’s guest lecture is all about change – managing the process of change. It is a grab bag of topics based upon the most frequently asked questions Jared has received these past months…and they all seem to revolve around how to make the necessary changes within one’s practice to compete effectively in the 21st century. […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Building a Law Firm Culture Which Honors Women – Guest Lecture with Mayanne Downs

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 25 Feb 2014 13:30:36 +0000

This guest lecture is a little off the topic of solo practice but I had to speak with this incredible woman because she speaks to why so many women go solo, to create their own culture of one that allows them to work as they need in order to have a life. I have to […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Do You Set Legal Fees? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 13:30:52 +0000

As a new lawyer one of the most daunting tasks is setting fees for your services. Many lawyers won’t tell you why they charge what they charge when asked. Every jurisdiction has a different idea of ‘reasonable and customary’. If too many lawyers discuss their fees the bar will sometimes fear antitrust issues. Seriously. Plus, […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Landmark Cases, Technology and the Rise of the Solo. Guest Lecture – Carolyn Elefant

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 04 Nov 2013 13:30:48 +0000

Ever wonder how a solo can represent like the Big Dogs? We asked Carolyn Elefant, a sole practitioner who is currently working on a potentially precedent setting case which even she admits would not have been possible just seven or eight years ago. The reason it’s now doable is the ability of the solo to […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Going Solo Upon Passing the Bar – Guest Lecture with Katie Kizer and Amanda Graham

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 12:30:32 +0000

When I first read and listened to Katie and Amanda’s interview in Crain’s 20 in their 20s I was intrigued. So, I contacted them and asked them to share their story with Solo Practice University. Here are two exceptional new lawyers committed to representing those charged with or convicted of crimes. They are also passionate […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Work from Anywhere – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 09 Sep 2013 12:30:57 +0000

You want to be that remote lawyer, the one who had an office in downtown Boston when the Marathon bombings rocked our world but didn’t have to miss a day of work because she had full access to her entire desktop from a remote location. You want to be that lawyer who can conduct business […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Guest Lecture with Tyler Coulson

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 12:30:35 +0000

I first met Tyler Coulson in April, 2013 when we both spoke at Catapult2013 in San Francisco. He is both smart and funny but most interesting to me is here is a man who went the BigLaw route, left voluntarily after 2 1/2 years and then in March, 2011 embarked on an 8 month walk-a-thon […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Are You Having Relations With Your Clients? – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 06 May 2013 12:00:06 +0000

Well, it got your attention didn’t it? The broader question is how do you effectively communicate with your clients before, during and after representation. This is a huge area to cover from a marketing perspective, your ethical obligations, and technological challenges. It’s even bigger when you consider you are a solo/small firm practitioner. But Jared and […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Guest Lecture with Nicole Bradick of CustomCounsel, LLC

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:59:30 +0000

In January of this year while presenting a the Maine Bar Association Mid-Year Meeting, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Nicole Bradick, the founder and President of Custom Counsel, LLC. What struck me about what Nicole is doing is it represents a 100% win for solos. There is absolutely no downside. Truly, a 100% win for […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

The Ethics of Using Social Media As A Client Communications Tool – Guest Lecture with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 13:00:42 +0000

Jared receives countless questions from new solo lawyers and solos who have been in practice for decades but need advice on law practice management. We like to ask Jared what’s on lawyers’ minds as we have several times before. In Jared’s newest guest lecture, we follow up on his previous guest lecture, You Know Everything […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Building A 21st Century Practice – Guest Lecture with Ryan McKeen

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 13:00:50 +0000

Ryan McKeen of the McKeen Law Firm shares his experiences building a 21st century practice. After seven years with his previous law firm, Ryan struck out to take on new challenges. While those seven years at his previous firm were great when it came to learning the law one thing struck Ryan. When he started […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

E-Discovery: Learning to Do It Right – Guest Lecture with E-Discovery expert, Steven Teppler

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 13:00:54 +0000

“Being a wizard on your computer or being able to put together amazing projects on Garage Band does not mean you can ethically or responsibly handle e-discovery.” Every lawyer needs to understand what e-discovery is and the process of e-discovery, or increasingly risk exposure to malpractice for failure to do due diligence for your client. This […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Digital Asset Management – Guest Lecture with Deborah Gonzalez

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 13:00:43 +0000

Everyone dies. Often unexpectedly. But there is power in dead hands. We are the country with the greatest control of our assets after death. However, most never consider, let alone manage, their digital legacy. How do we handle, bequeath (or destroy), our digital immortality from medical information to our life story on facebook? This is […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

You Know Everything There Is To Know About Social Media…Or Do You?

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:00:06 +0000

Jared receives countless questions from new solo lawyers and solos who have been in practice for decades but need advice on law practice management. We like to ask Jared what’s on lawyers’ minds as we have several times before. This time, it’s social media. Yes, I know you think you know everything there IS to […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Guest Lecture with Jared Correia – Tech for New (and Not So New) Lawyers

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 08 May 2012 08:30:52 +0000

Jared receives countless questions from new solo lawyers and solos who have been in practice for decades but need advice on law practice management. We like to ask Jared what it is on lawyers’ minds and (no) surprise…it’s technology, cloud securiy, google, and law practice management software. However, you might be very surprised by what […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: New Solo Attorney FAQs with Jared Correia

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:30:22 +0000

New Solo FAQs with Jared Correia Often times new solos are afraid to publicly ask the important questions about starting a solo practice because they are concerned others will mock them for not knowing what is often considered basic. Jared Correia hears these questions all day long, often times two and three times in the […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Savvy Solos with Omar Ha-Redeye

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:57:25 +0000

Social Media is amazing for meeting fascinating people. Over these past few years I’ve had the opportunity to connect with Omar Ha-Redeye through our mutual blogging and then increasingly through Twitter. Omar and I recently went from online to offline and got to know each other a little better. It was then I learned of […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: What’s New in Bankruptcy Law with Daniel Gershburg

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 11:30:30 +0000

Daniel Gershburg is a bankruptcy and real estate lawyer practicing in New York. He will teach a course about bankruptcy law at Solo Practice University®. SPU’s newest faculty member and I discussed the changes in the bankruptcy laws and how they will be affecting your clients and your practice. If you haven’t met Daniel Gershburg […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Savvy Solos with Spencer Aronfeld

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:00:13 +0000

During his 20 years in private practice as a solo, Spencer Aronfeld has enjoyed powerful courtroom victories over Walt Disney World, Wild Oats, P.A.C. Construction, Fedan Tire, and Todel Apartments and has gained international recognition as a lawyer for the people. One of the reasons I LOVE doing these Savvy Solos interviews is I get […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Savvy Solos with Lurie Daniel-Favors

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:00:07 +0000

Lurie Daniel-Favors is a consumer rights and bankruptcy attorney in New York. She is the founder of Daniel Favors Law Group P.C. On June 1, 2011 Lurie celebrated her second anniversary as a solo, just 2 1/2 months after enrolling at SPU on the very first day SPU opened (she has said we’ll never get […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: What’s New in Special Education Law with Jennifer Laviano

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 11:30:40 +0000

Attorney Jennifer Laviano is in private practice in Connecticut. She teaches a course entitled “Introduction to Special Education Law” at Solo Practice University®. Jennifer and I had an animated discussion about the good, the bad, and the ugly of special education law and she identified two trends. The bad: Learn about how the 2004 reauthorization […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: What’s New in Value Pricing with Ronald Baker

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 31 May 2011 11:30:54 +0000

Ronald J. Baker is an author and speaker with the mission, “To, once and for all, bury the billable hour and timesheets in the professions.” He teaches a course called “Value Pricing for the Legal Profession” at Solo Practice University®. Talking with Ron is like getting a masters class in economics. With more than eight […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: What’s New – Construction Law with Chris Hill

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 24 May 2011 12:31:26 +0000

Christopher G. Hill is a construction lawyer in Virginia. He teaches about effective risk management, collection and contract drafting techniques for construction professionals, along with some practice-building advice, at Solo Practice University®. Chris and I talked a couple of months ago about what is new in the construction law practice area so for those interested […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: What’s New – Child Custody with Katherine Frye

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 17 May 2011 11:30:41 +0000

Katherine Frye is a North Carolina attorney and board certified specialist in Family Law. She teaches a course called “Child Custody: Start to finish…is there an end?” at Solo Practice University®. Katherine and I talked at length about the following: Technology and Family Law The impact of Facebook & other social media on the demise […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Meet Savvy Solo Judy Young

Susan Cartier Liebel — Thu, 12 May 2011 10:30:50 +0000

Judy Young is a talented and accomplished corporate law attorney with tested expertise in commercial transactions, intellectual property contracts, commercial and business litigation, licensing and distribution, labor and employment law, negotiation, arbitration, dispute resolution, and other fields directly relevant to her counsel for the winery and hospitality industries. Judy and I discussed her journey since […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Good Enough Is The New Perfect – Hollee S. Temple

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 10 May 2011 11:30:20 +0000

Hollee S. Temple is a journalist-turned-lawyer-turned-professor at West Virginia University College of Law and co-author of the book, Good Enough is the New Perfect. Hollee and I had a terrific conversation about the challenges facing professional women when it comes to working and raising a family. This book is not the same old saw about […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: What’s New – Appellate Practice and Procedure with D. Todd Smith

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 03 May 2011 13:26:21 +0000

D. Todd Smith is a certified specialist in civil appellate law. He teaches a course about appellate practice and procedure at Solo Practice University®. This interview is approximately 52 minutes. Listen directly below. http://spucdn.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/dtoddsmith-mar11-2011.mp3Download (.MP3) Todd and I enjoyed nearly an hour of discussion on what is new in appellate practice and procedure. This is […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: What’s New – Entertainment Law with Gordon Firemark

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 12:35:58 +0000

Gordon Firemark is an attorney whose practice is devoted to the representation of artists, writers, producers and directors in the fields of theater, film, television,and music. He teaches a course on how to create and build an entertainment law practice at Solo Practice University®. The interview is about 55 minutes long. Listen directly below. http://spucdn.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/firemark-feb9-2011.mp3Download […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What’s New – Macs in the Law Office with Victor Medina

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:44:57 +0000

Victor Medina is the managing partner of a small law firm run entirely on Mac computers and Apple products. The interview is about 49 minutes long. Listen directly below. http://spucdn.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/medina-feb11-2011-whats-new-milo.mp3Download (.MP3) Victor and I had a terrific conversation about Macs in the Law Office (I’m slowly converting over to Macs – just one old gadget […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Social Media & Networking For Businesses (Part 3)

Susan Cartier Liebel — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 11:30:25 +0000

Toby Bloomberg teaches about social media and networking for businesses at Solo Practice University® in a series of Guest Lectures. This lecture was recorded February, 2011. You can listen to her previous guest lectures here (Part 1) and here (Part 2). Toby Bloomberg is passionate about helping people (not companies) create initiatives that leverage the […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Using the D.A.F.T. System to Organize Work Flow

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 11:30:19 +0000

Andrea Cannavina is a legal virtual assistant helping law firms and other service based businesses upgrade to a digital workflow so everyone can work securely from anywhere. Those who know Andrea know she will help you with a click of her keyboard. Before you’ve ever finished the sentence, ‘Can you help me with…? she’s figured […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: The Non-Trad Law Grad – Jeff Rutledge

Susan Cartier Liebel — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 11:30:18 +0000

We got such a terrific response from current students and new grads who could relate to the non-trad law grad status. There are so many more than we realize and their experiences are very unique. I decided it would be fun to talk with Jeff about his experiences. This is a must-listen lecture for all […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What’s New – Personal Injury with James Reed

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 11:30:14 +0000

Jim teaches “Personal Injury 101: The Nuts and Bolts of Handling Accident Cases” at Solo Practice University® and he recently joined me for an hour long conversation about “What’s New” in Personal Injury Law. Jim and I had a very, very interesting discussion in areas beyond personal injury law which I think everyone should listen […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Future Of The Legal Profession (Part 2) – Jordan Furlong

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 11:30:50 +0000

Jordan Furlong recently gave us his two-part 2011 teleseminar update on the future of the legal profession. Part Two is now available below. I always look forward to my conversations with Jordan. He is insightful, extremely intelligent, and expresses his vision of the future of the legal profession with amazing clarity and direction for all […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What’s New – Virtual Law Practice with Stephanie Kimbro

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 11:30:35 +0000

We’ve kicked off a new series of free audio guest lectures at Solo Practice University starting with Smart Marketing with Mark Merenda, Business Law with Trippe Fried, and Video For Attorneys with Gerry Oginski. These ongoing lectures will feature our faculty experts discussing what’s new in their own practice areas or their specific areas of […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Future Of The Legal Profession (Part 1) – Jordan Furlong

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:30:36 +0000

Jordan Furlong recently gave us his two-part 2011 teleseminar update on the future of the legal profession. Part two will be posted on March 22nd. I always look forward to my conversations with Jordan. He is insightful, extremely intelligent, and expresses his vision of the future of the legal profession with amazing clarity and direction […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

How Career Counselors Can Help Law Students Go Solo

Susan Cartier Liebel — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 11:30:30 +0000

On January 27th of this year I had the distinct privilege of educating more than (70)seventy (113) one hundred and thirteen career counselors on how they can help their law students and grads who either want to go solo or feel they have no option but to go solo. I thank Amanda Ellis of Amanda […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What’s New – Video for Attorneys with Gerry Oginski

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 11:30:11 +0000

We’ve kicked off a new series of free audio guest lectures at Solo Practice University starting with Smart Marketing with Mark Merenda and Business Law with Trippe Fried. These ongoing lectures will feature our faculty experts discussing what’s new in their own practice areas or their specific areas of business expertise. The audio series is […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Get Hired Using Social Networking – Amanda Ellis

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 11:30:11 +0000

I have had the very good fortune of knowing Amanda (and finally meeting her this past November) for a few years now and all thanks to social media networking. She has made it her mission to teach law students and new JDs how to use the three major social networking sites to help them get […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What’s New – Business Law With Trippe Fried

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 11:31:08 +0000

We’ve kicked off a new series of free audio guest lectures at Solo Practice University starting with Smart Marketing with Mark Merenda. These ongoing lectures will feature our faculty experts discussing what’s new in their own practice areas or their specific areas of business expertise. The audio series is simply called ‘What’s New?’ We’ll feature […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

What’s New – Smart Marketing with Mark Merenda

Susan Cartier Liebel — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 11:30:14 +0000

We are kicking off a new series of free audio guest lectures at Solo Practice University. These lectures will feature our faculty experts discussing what’s new in their own practice areas or their specific areas of business expertise. The audio series is simply called ‘What’s New?’ We’ll feature a new guest lecture approximately every other […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Spinning the Law – Trying the Case in the Court of Public Opinion

Susan Cartier Liebel — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 12:57:26 +0000

Kendall Coffey is a founding member of Coffey Burlington, PL, concentrating on complex litigation at trial and appellate levels in federal and state courts. He provided a guest lecture on ‘Spinning the Law: Trying the Case in the Court of Public Opinion’ on Tuesday, December 14th. Mr. Coffey currently serves as the Chair of the […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: How to Avoid Malpractice, Ethics, and Trust Account-Related Issues with Practice Management Software

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:30:01 +0000

Jack Newton is Co-founder and President of Clio, a leading provider of web-based practice management software. He gave a teleseminar on “How to Avoid Malpractice, Ethics, and Trust Account-Related Issues with Practice Management Software” on Tuesday, November 9th. Jack Newton is Co-founder and President of Clio, a leading provider of web-based practice management software. Jack […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel

Audio: Expenses and Deductions for Professionals Who Work From Home on a Full or Part-time Basis

Susan Cartier Liebel — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:28:46 +0000

Kelly Phillips Erb is a tax lawyer focused on tax law for businesses and families. She provided a guest lecture Wednesday, October 6th about expenses and deductions for professionals who work from home on a full or part-time basis. Kelly Phillips Erb is an attorney and shareholder with the Erb Law Firm, PC. She has […]

Written by Susan Cartier Liebel