Q: I am presently with a law firm, with more than 50 lawyers, for four years now. I am very tempted to go out on my own, but have a lot of apprehension about it. Any thoughts you can share with me? Is a solo practice doable?

R.D., Irvine

A: Research indicates that in California, as in much of the country, a notable and significant amount of attorneys are either sole practitioners, or are part of a modest-sized firm. The lure of having your own business is a factor. Also, while I do not like this expression, there can be real advantage to “eating what you kill.”

For many years after law school, I worked with law firms, and became a partner at a large law office. Over time, I found that the lack of autonomy was very challenging. That is one of the key reasons why I ultimately became a

See Full Page