The 4 Law Firm Sizes (And Why They Matter To You)

Law Blog

You may understand the need for legal counsel but feel under-qualified to make decisions about which firm to work with. One of the factors many people find confusing is firm size.

This blog will walk you through the four main size categories of law firms and what a firm's size can mean to you.

1. Firms with 50 or More Lawyers

Large law firms usually handle legal matters for businesses and organizations, but they may also take on individual clients.

Pros

• Convenience: Firms of this size often have multiple locations, making it more convenient for you to meet with your legal counsel. 
• Reputation: Large law firms have a lot of clout. You look like a more serious opponent with a well-known team on your side.

Cons

• Cost: Plan to pay more for hourly rates if you decide to work with a big firm. Because the firm has a larger overhead, it charges clients more.

2. Firms with 10 to 50 Lawyers

Mid-sized firms may take on a variety of clients in multiple practice areas.

Pros

• Contacts: Most firms this size are big enough to have plenty of bar association contacts, but small enough to have local resources as well.
• Full Services: Some small firms cannot handle all your legal needs, but most medium firms can provided they practice in those legal areas.

Cons

• Possible Imbalance: Medium firms straddle the divide between massive legal teams and intimate law offices. This sometimes leads to issues with focus.

3. Firms with 2 to 10 Lawyers

Most local firms in your area probably fall into this size category. Small firms tend to take on more individuals than business clients.

Pros

• Availability: Both very small and very large firms may have trouble meeting with every client, but small firms usually don't.
• Expertise: Most small firms only handle one type of law so they may have a more thorough understanding of that legal branch.

Cons

• Niche Services: Some small firms can only help with certain legal matters.

4. Sole Practitioners

Sole practitioners are lawyers who run their own firm.

Pros

• Cost: Usually these firms have the lowest costs.
• Dedication: Sole practitioners take on a limited number of cases, ensuring yours gets enough attention.

Cons

• No Guarantees: While many sole practitioners are excellent lawyers, there's no guarantee in terms of quality.

Your priority is finding legal counsel with a strong track record dealing with cases like yours who will defend your claim professionally and compassionately. However, as you consider several possible firms, remember that size matters. Contact a firm like Vandeventer Black LLP for a consultation to see if they'll be a good fit for your case.

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29 October 2015