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Mold to Model the Community Active Law Firm

By Michael C. Hodes, Esq.
April 27, 2006

As law firms grow and become more interested in the international, national and regional marketplace, their involvement in the local community has begun to wane. This has left a gaping hole in many places that have relied on the large firms to bankroll charitable events or to populate the important boards. It has opened a door to local- and state-oriented law firms to step forward and implement a strategy that will create a new law firm culture that I call 'Community Active' in order to fill the void left by the mega firms.

Lawyers are under pressure to produce billable hours. How many firms prioritize investment hours that are allocated to community involvement? This creates an opportunity to create a culture of giving both in the form of man-hours and funds back to the community where the firm's practice is located. At the same time the law firm can create an environment where young associates and young partners can be mentored by placing them in leadership positions in the community.

It is wise for attorneys to spend 200 to 300 hours per year in a way that involves them in community activities. Teaching courses at the community college, university or law school is a terrific way to both get known in a specific genre while also getting to know people in a specific practice area. At the same time it strengthens the instructor's communication skills and knowledge in the field that they are teaching.

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