be given to this individual . As part of this process , also make certain everyone agrees to respect that authority whenever it is exercised . A firm should always recognize the importance and value of the management position , whether full-time or part-time , with an appropriate level of compensation . Consider management training if no one at the firm has a complete set of management skills . There are resources available at a variety of price ranges from well-written books to intensive off-site courses that last several weeks . If no attorney at the firm has an interest in managing the firm , consider hiring an experienced manager and , again , make certain to give this individual the necessary level of authority to fulfill his or her duties , otherwise it ’ s just going to be wasted time , energy , and money .
I am a firm believer in having strong leadership and effective management within organizations . Within the law firm setting , not only will this contribute in lowering exposure to malpractice claims , but I also believe it will significantly impact any firm ’ s financial bottom line in the most positive of ways . That said , remember this . According to our ethical rules we are our partner ’ s keepers , and when it comes to the success or failure of the business , firm attorneys will sink or swim together . Isn ’ t the better option to have someone actually in charge of steering the ship , if for no other reason , than to try and avoid ever having to sink or swim together ? Personally , I ’ d rather be on the ocean than in it . How about you ?
ALPS Risk Manager Mark Bassingthwaighte , Esq ., has conducted more than 1,000 law firm risk management assessment visits , presented numerous continuing legal education seminars throughout the United States , and written extensively on risk management and technology . Check out his recent seminars to assist you with your solo practice by visiting our on-demand CLE library at alps . inreachce . com . Bassingthwaighte can be contacted at mbass @ alpsnet . com .
Disclaimer : ALPS presents this publication or document as general information only . While ALPS strives to provide accurate information , ALPS expressly disclaims any guarantee or assurance that this publication or document is complete or accurate . Therefore , in providing this publication or document , ALPS expressly disclaims any warranty of any kind , whether express or implied , including , but not limited to , the implied warranties of merchantability , fitness for a particular purpose , or noninfringement .
Further , by making this publication or document available , ALPS is not rendering legal or other professional advice or services and this publication or document should not be relied upon as a substitute for such legal or other professional advice or services . ALPS warns that this publication or document should not be used or relied upon as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your professional practice , business or personal affairs . Instead , ALPS highly recommends that you consult an attorney or other professional before making any decisions regarding the subject matter of this publication or document . ALPS Corporation and its subsidiaries , affiliates and related entities shall not be responsible for any loss or damage sustained by any person who uses or relies upon the publication or document presented herein .
VERY EASY TO WORK WITH
The ALPS staff is professional , skilled and very easy to work with in the application / renewal process .
Sean Smith , Tschider & Smith , Bismarck , ND
North Dakota law firms can connect directly with ALPS at learnmore @ alpsinsurance . com or by calling ( 800 ) 367-2577 . Find our more about your endorsed carrier by visiting :
www . alpsinsurance . com / gavel
The nation ’ s largest direct writer of lawyers ’ malpractice insurance .
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