The Road to Independence: 101 Women’s Journeys to Starting Their Own Law Firms

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (2 votes, average: 3.00 out of 5)
Loading ... Loading ...

Published by the American Bar Association

The Road to Independence is a collection of 101 letters from women who have taken the courageous and difficult step of creating a law firm of their own, either as a solo or with others. Focusing on the experiences, challenges, and opportunities of women-owned law firms, these women, in their personal voices, reiterate key themes: Of becoming businesswomen. Of choosing a practice area true to their passion and the high character they bring to the bar. Of controlling not only their days but their destinies. Of ambition in action.

Women continue to face significant barriers and obstacles at law firms in this country; thus, it is hardly surprising that more and more women are opting to create their own firms.

Throughout this inspirational book, the reader will find business-savvy tidbits and practical tips for starting and growing a successful law practice in the words of the founders themselves. Grouped chronologically according to when each writer started her woman-owned practice, this collection implicitly portrays the profession’s growth, the society’s evolution, the economy’s fortunes, and the periodic changes in business models of private practice. Explicitly, these letters unite to reflect not only the drive to practice law but also, the impact of those cultural changes on women in private practice.

The letters compiled in this book reflect the voices of women who are happy with their practices, proud of their entrepreneurial spirit and business development skills, and eager to share their advice with others who may be emboldened to follow in their footsteps. The Road to Independence will serve as a catalyst, guide, and inspiration for other women who are contemplating the possibility of setting out on their own.

Summary of Contents

  • Chapter 1 — Through 1979: The Pioneers and the First Advocates of Women-Owned Firms
  • Chapter 2 — 1980-1989: The Early Movers – Experimenting with Individual Reasons to Strike Out
  • Chapter 3 — 1990-1994: Controlling Types of Clients and Practice Philosophy
  • Chapter 4 — 1995-1999: Creating Work/Life Balance
  • Chapter 5 — 2000-2004: Responding to Tighter Constraints in the Large Law Firm Model
  • Chapter 6 — 2005-2008: Accelerating into the Recession
  • Chapter 7 — 2009-2010 Plus One: Diversifying the Practice Areas, Broadening the Seniority of Founders

Click here to purchase or learn more about the book.

Students and faculty at Solo Practice University® receive a discount on this item. You must be logged in to see the amount of the discount and the discount code. Enroll now to enjoy SPU benefits.

*Please contact vendors directly for customer service.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *