Breaking down Our Business Structure – Hybrid Law Firm
A hybrid law firm? Interesting.
When I meet someone (usually other attorneys) at networking events or talk to other business-owners and they ask about my business, I pause. Mostly because I know it will take another few minutes to really explain how my law firm’s business structure. And that is only the introduction.
Usually, our conversation sounds like this:
“So, how do you juggle family life and managing a legal practice?”
“I manage a hybrid law firm.”
“Uhhh…what is that? How does that work?”
“Well, our ultimate goal is to provide quality legal care to clients. In a hybrid practice, most of the interaction is through a secured portal which is more convenient, and office meetings and consultations are available by appointment. Over 90% of our clients are working families, parents, and business owners who do not have the time during the day to sit with an attorney in an office. We want to get them the legal help they need at a lower or rather an affordable cost than traditional brick-and-mortar firms without reducing the attention to details.”
(Brief Pause)
“But, how did you get into that?!”
Actually, it is quite an interesting story.
Most times, it is easy to tell others Aminu Law Firm is based in Houston, Texas; we handle family and immigration cases in personal, business, and entertainment matters. They usually get stuck on the ‘hybrid’ part.
Before Aminu Law Firm, I clerked at an insurance law firm. Although I had autonomy over my time and schedule, something seemed to be missing for me. Was it the long drive and hours in traffic? Leaving my children in daycare 10-12 hours five days a week? Or staying glued to a computer screen in a cubicle? I loved the people and the work environment. But, I have a passion to be more than another attorney trying to hit it big.
I wanted to be a problem-solver. I still do.
My story usually goes something like this:
“I have four daughters, and the best thing I can leave them after my Christian faith and values is to teach them healthy work ethics. It starts with my example. At Aminu Law Firm, we promote diversity and reach out to our communities by accepting pro-bono cases, volunteering, and educating women about building healthy businesses and families. That is important. And that is what a hybrid law firm allows me to do – help clients and still be present for my family and others.”
Also, having the right support system helps. My husband has played a steady and trusted role. After all, he is the IT genius behind the firm’s marketing and brand.
For all the women out there who want to start their own business, I want to let you know, “It is doable.”
Online business today is thriving; law practice can thrive online too. Without breaking the ethic rules (which I won’t be surprised if they are revisited with how fast technology is advancing), legal assistance is possible.
I own a virtual office. Of course, I have office meetings, and I offer free case evaluation. In addition, I give consultation based on appointments.
Hybrid is the new way.
Soon, the other firms will have to get on board.
