Solving an IP Practice Business Need with Patricia
December 22, 2008
In January 2003, Duane Morris recognized a need to provide a better IP docketing system. The new docketing system needed to be user-friendly and give users the ability to create reports quickly and efficiently. It also needed to provide a flexible solution for incorporating the dockets of lateral hires during the firm's growth cycle and to integrate the firm's nine separate IP docketing databases into a master database. Finally, it was vital that it work well within the firm's existing infrastructure.
<b><i>Product Review:</b></i> Clio, Effective SaaS Practice Management For the Small Firm
November 25, 2008
As a partner in a small firm, I must divide my time between servicing current clients, finding new ones and running the operational side of my small business. In addition, I have three children, so it is essential for me to be able to work from home and office interchangeably. Another challenge is that my client base requires me to travel frequently, which makes it imperative for me to have access to my client data wherever I am, day or night.
SoundExchange Counsel Faces Royalty Skirmishes
November 25, 2008
SoundExchange originated as a division of the RIAA and was spun off as a separate group in 2000 to collect and distribute digital performance royalties. It's the only agency authorized to do so. Today, it represents more than 3,500 record companies and more than 6,000 labels and their artists. Michael Huppe, general counsel for SoundExchange, says music labels and artists will increasingly depend on the performance royalties SoundExchange distributes to survive.
It's Compensation Time Again
November 21, 2008
Whatever compensation system a firm selects, it will work in the long run only if it has the confidence of all of the firm's partners. Based upon the author's experience, that confidence can best be won by providing a role in the process for all partners.
Help Insulate Your Firm with Careful Year-End Planning
November 21, 2008
Notwithstanding the slowing economy, there are opportunities to strengthen the firm's finances and those of individual partners. The key in this or any year is careful tax planning — including year-end tax projections — that will help lessen federal and state tax liabilities, prepare for possible exposure to the alternative minimum tax, and discover potential ways to save and streamline.
How Healthy Is Your Inventory?
November 21, 2008
Savvy firms are expanding their tool kits to effectively manage the business of law. Inventory analysis is a critical component, and used wisely, can point to risks and trends early, preventing cash flow problems down the road.
