Launching your own firm? Listed below are the most important tasks for starting your own practice:

  • File state bar firm registration and formation papers
  • File Articles of Organization with Secretary of State
  • Apply for an Employer Identification Number (“EIN”) with the IRS
  • Open an operating bank account and a trust account or IOLTA account for the firm
  • Apply for a firm credit card
  • Apply for professional liability insurance
  • Find a workspace and/or lease an office
  • Purchase a website domain name
  • Create an email account
  • Design the firm logo
  • Order business cards and firm letterhead
  • Purchase hardware (i.e., computer, scanner, printer, etc.)
  • Purchase software (for billing, trust account management, accounting, practice management, etc.)
  • Create an engagement letter to use for new clients
  • Develop a billing structure and billing rates
  • Develop and launch a website
  • Set up an account with a legal research vendor (i.e., LexisNexis, Westlaw, etc.)
  • Develop firm policies for document retention, conflict checks, and calendaring
  • Update your social media outlets (i.e., LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.)
  • Send an email to colleagues and potential clients announcing your new firm