As attorneys, we’re trained to anticipate problems and prepare for contingencies in our legal work. Yet when it comes to our own firms, many of us operate with the minimum staff necessary to handle our current caseload. In doing so, we create a vulnerability that can threaten everything we’ve built. With that in mind, I’d like to take a lesson that I observed recently while watching college basketball and bring it into your business.
How Deep is Your Bench?
The intensity of the games, the unpredictability, and the way the best teams rise to meet challenges is part of what makes college basketball so exciting.
If you know me, you know I love the University of Florida Gators—my alma mater–and the recently crowned winners of men’s NCAA basketball. Go Gators!
During the recent tournament, we were in the middle of a tight game against Maryland when one of our star players went down with a sprained ankle. This was a key guy, an all-SEC player who had been integral to the team’s success all year.
The whole room went quiet. What would happen now?
What happened was this: Players came off the bench and filled in. They played with heart and kept us in the game.
Why were we able to maintain our performance?
- The team was deep
- The bench was ready
Your Law Practice Needs the Same Depth
Your law practice needs to work exactly the same way. You can’t build your team for just when things go right. You need to be prepared for when things go wrong. An associate gets sick, your paralegal leaves, a key team member relocates due to a spouse’s career change.
You need to be prepared to deal with adversity. If your firm has just enough staff to keep the wheels turning—you’re vulnerable.
A deep bench isn’t about inefficiency. It’s about resilience and sustainability.
It’s about having a system where when someone leaves, others step up. They perform and keep your momentum going, ensuring client matters continue to move forward without interruption.
The Critical Question for Law Firm Leaders
So ask yourself this question: “If my MVP, my star player, left today, would my firm survive?”
Better yet, would your practice thrive?
If your answer is no, you need to hire. You’re at least one person short, and you might say, “But I’ll be overstaffed.”
No, you’ll be prepared.
That’s the mindset of a championship team and a championship law practice.
Building for Sustainable Success
In a profession where burnout is common and lateral movement between firms is increasing, having depth on your team isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Consider these benefits of building a deeper bench:
- Continuity of client service during transitions
- Less stress on remaining team members when someone departs
- Time to properly onboard new hires without rushing
- Opportunities for mentorship and professional development
- Ability to take on new matters without overextending your team
Let’s build your team.
Let’s build your bench.
Because in law, just like in basketball, the teams that can weather unexpected setbacks are the ones that ultimately win championships.
Want to Learn More?
If you’d like to discuss strategies for building resilience into your law practice, or if you’d like to explore other strategic growth opportunities, I’m always here to help.
I believe in the power of coaching in professional growth, just as top athletes do. If you’re navigating complex issues in your law firm, such as profitability, system efficiency, accountability, or adapting to remote workforces and unexpected changes, I’m here to assist. My experiences, both as a learner and a mentor, equip me to offer insights into refining your practice, from hiring strategies to handling unforeseen shifts in the industry.
Feel free to reach out to me at 727-977-5568 or 866-828-4287 for a conversation on any aspect of growing your law business. My journey has been enriched by mentorship, and I’m eager to share this wisdom to help your practice thrive.
Let’s Grow Our Business Together!
Generating new business is one of the best ways to ensure your business is growing in the right direction.
I’ve been practicing law for over 34 years. During that time I’ve had the privilege to both receive and give client referrals from fellow attorneys.
Client Referrals are one of the most powerful ways to grow your business. That’s why last year I decided to start my own Attorney Referral Partnership Program.
I know you’ve heard of other attorney referral programs but I’m offering something different:
- Including a monthly newsletter with business tips
- Ongoing disability education so you can qualify the client’s situation
- And soon, an individual portal that keeps you informed of your case referrals every step of the way
There’s no obligation so it’s a complete win-win for everyone.
If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call me at 866-828-4287.
GROW YOUR REVENUE. JOIN OUR REFERRAL PROGRAM.
