Highlight at East Coast Forum
Cutting Edge Business Practices Highlighted at East Coast Forum
SAN DIEGO, California - Outsourcing takes a hold on yet another industry, surprisingly, this time it's the legal world. Robert Armstrong, President and Co-Founder of The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys, highlighted his expertise on the subject by speaking at the Legal Industry Outsourcing Forum in New York City on May 23, 2007.
“Outsourcing is one of the unstoppable trends of the 21st century,” Armstrong says. “Taking any business to the next level requires fresh and creative thinking in order to keep a competitive edge. Law firms are no different in their need to evolve. Business process outsourcing is a cost effective solution for law firms of any size. They not only substantially reduce costs but guarantee top quality service in a tight labor market.”
Armstrong has experience with the triumphs and pitfalls of outsourcing basic legal work overseas through a partnership he established for the members of The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys. The members are able to outsource backroom legal tasks such as data entry and document preparation to a staff overseas that has already been trained on the software and systems used by Academy member firms. Those using outsourced staff free up the productivity of in-house employees who can now devote themselves to higher level tasks.
“Innovative firms have already witnessed the benefits of offshore outsourcing.” In order to stay competitive, Armstrong predicts that all law firms will ultimately need to incorporate similar practices in the near future.
For further information please contact:
Erin Laverty
858-453-2128 x111
erin@aaepa.com
“In my 23 years as an attorney, I've been through many practice models. I've worked in a prestigious firm, worked for the Federal Government, worked in a small firm, operated in a partnership and ultimately opened my own firm. During the first half of my career, I was diligently searching for the model which would make me happy and allow me to honorably serve my clients and still have a balanced family life. I've worked closely with the two gentlemen who helped write this book and I attribute my success and happiness as a lawyer and layperson to their coaching. This book is the perfect primer for new law school graduates and seasoned attorneys seeking the answers which have alluded them in striking the right balance between life and law. Unfortunately, while law school teaches you how to think like a lawyer, it does a poor job of teaching you how to operate in a law firm or run a legal business. I've read all of Michael Gerber's books and heard him speak numerous times. I think he's right on point. This book is a supplement to his other books and specifically addresses the challenging issues which cause attorney dissatisfaction and law firm failure. If you are a satisfied attorney you shouldn't read this book. It's not for you. If you are not happy, this is the place to start. Legal practices are changing at a rapid speed. The old models are being replaced like yesterday's garbage. Successful, happy lawyers understand the skills involved in operating their practices as businesses. In my experience, this creates happy, satisfied clients. It's a win-win situation. Two of my children are now in college, both wishing to pursue different passions. I've encouraged both of them to get business degrees and learn accounting, computer skills, social networking, human resources, entrepreneurship and the myriad of other components mentioned in this book.”
Cheryl D. — North Carolina Member