256. The Best Strategies for Building a Thriving Law Firm in Today’s Market

The Free Lawyer

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary Miles interviews Kellam Parks, managing member of Parks Ziegler law firm. They discuss Kellam's journey from law school to managing a successful, paperless, and tech-driven firm. Kellam shares practical insights on the importance of systematic planning, effective delegation, and time management. He highlights his use of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and the benefits of coaching. The conversation also covers work-life balance and technology integration in legal practice. Kellam emphasizes the value of continuous learning and offers practical advice that aspiring law firm owners can implement immediately.

Kellam T. Parks is a managing member of Parks Zeigler, PLLC, headquartered in Virginia Beach. This paperless, technologically driven law practice has three offices in Virginia and North Carolina. Kellam is a Tidewater native who has practiced there for over 20 years.

Kellam is active with the Virginia State Bar and is the former chair of the Special Committee on Technology and the Future Practice of Law Technology. Kellam frequently writes and speaks about the modernization and use of technology in law practice, including topics such as ethics, electronically stored information, and practice management/marketing.

Decision-Making in Business (00:09:40)
Kellam explains the difference between one-way and two-way door decisions in business.

Transition to Managing a Law Firm (00:12:21)
He discusses the challenges and rewards of shifting focus from practicing law to managing a firm.

Desire to Help Other Lawyers (00:14:08)
Kellam expresses his passion for coaching and supporting other lawyers in their careers.

Benefits of Coaching and Learning (00:16:45)
He shares insights gained from coaching and peer interactions at legal marketing conferences.

Business Coaching Insights (00:19:29)
Kellam discusses hiring a business coach to streamline operations and implement an organizational system.

Mistakes in Firm Growth (00:20:49)
Kellam reflects on early mistakes, including the need for a systematic game plan and core values.

The Importance of Delegation (00:22:29)
He shares lessons learned about the value of proper delegation and its impact on efficiency.

Time Management Strategies (00:25:07)
Kellam explains his regimented time management approach, including time blocking for tasks.

Efficient Communication Practices (00:27:08)
He emphasizes scheduling calls and managing client expectations to enhance efficiency.

Advice for Aspiring Law Firm Owners (00:29:13)
Kellam offers key questions and tips for lawyers considering starting their firms.

Key Factors for Firm Success (00:35:11)
He identifies integrity, reputation, and technology as crucial to the firm's success.

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