How to Start and Build a Law Practice, Fifth Edition

I have been in private practice for a while, but thought I should "sharpen the saw" when I found this book on line. I was immediately drawn into this volume of simple, clear and time proven practical techniques for starting and managing my practice. I know the techniques are effective because I had learned some of them through the years. It is easy to read with concise chapters addressing every essential aspect of private practice. While a newly admitted attorney may find some of the suggestions difficult to implement because of a lack of cash flow, a more seasoned attorney will see the benefits and make the sacrifices willingly. Easily, the best "How To" book I have ever read, and the best investment I have made.

I am a trial attorney in a city of about 220,000 people, and for more than 2 years I considered breaking away from firm life and starting my own shop. I read Foonberg's 3rd edition of the same title, then purchased this one. I read, dreamed, re-read, and then started planning. I used this book as my primary guide, while also gleaning some "nuggets" from other publications. I will say, however, that this book BY FAR provided the most guidance and the most detail. Just over a month ago, I took the plunge and started my own solo practice. I had re-financed my house and took some cash out to ensure I could survive for about 6 months just on that money. ... And I am happy to say that it wasn't necessary. I am "in the black" after only the first month! In fact, I am SO busy, that I either need to limit my practice or rent a larger place to hire a paralegal. It's not like I'm taking everything that walks in either. On the contrary, I am refusing quite a bit of work, but it seems like the more bad cases I turn away, the more good cases come in. My success is unusual, but can be duplicated with the same methodical planning using this book as a "bible" of sorts. It was on my nightstand for more than a year, and now it sits in my credenza in my new office. I cannot recommend this book enough to the attorney that is considering going on his/her own. It is truly a great resource. I actually plan on purchasing the new (5th) edition when it comes out, even though I'm already on my own. It is simply that useful. ... And don't be surprised if you can't find it in the local law library! It is usually either checked out or stolen.

Did you notice that there is only *one* used copy of this book for sale? There's a reason for that.This book is an indispensable reference for sole practitioners. Yes, the material on technology is slightly dated (show me something in print that isn't). Yes, there is no in-depth treatment of any one topic. This book provides a cogent summary of the essentials of virtually any business management you may encounter as you launch a sole practice. The reader who discovers a need for more detailed information on any topic can then seek more specialized books, confident that s/he has made a good start steered by Foonberg.For heaven's sake, get yourself a copy if you're starting a practice. It's worth the money.

I had my own practice in Delaware for 11 years. This book was the absolutely indispensible A-Z guide and saved me hundreds of thousands of dollars. I have never known Foonberg to be wrong and this book is crammed with useful tips. All the stuff they don't teach you in law school. Buy it at once if you're even thinking of starting your own practice. Buy it as a graduation gift if you know someone graduating from law school (they will thank you profusely). Even if you're a lawyer who laughs at the idea of ever starting your own practice, did you ever wonder how other lawyers do it? Buy and read this and you'll find out all the secrets. And you might just get tempted yourself...

I have read the new edition of Jay Foonberg's book, as well as reading the previous edition. The new edition is definitely much better and useful than the previous edition and should be bought by anyone who has the intention of setting up their own law practice.