The Trial Lawyer Fall 2026 | Page 14

DOWNTO BUSINESS

DOWNTO BUSINESS

THE LONELIEST

SEAT IN A LAW FIRM

Leadership changes more than your title. It changes where you can turn for support.

By Gracie Howes, PILMMA COO
Every growing law firm( or business, for that matter) eventually reaches a point where strong operational leadership becomes essential. Whether you’ re a solo practitioner hiring your first few employees or leading an eight-figure firm that’ s building out a true operational leadership team, there comes a point where you need someone focused on turning vision into execution. Sometimes that means hiring an experienced operator from outside the firm. Other times, it means promoting someone who’ s already earned your trust from within.
12 The Trial Lawyer