When we launched JG Legal earlier this year, we had a cumulative 40 years of experience in litigation and corporate law. We knew we would deliver unparalleled legal services, and having run All Before Dinner—a networking group for professional women—for three years, we were confident in our working relationship. However, setting up our own firm was not without some hiccups. We took the steps any budding business owner would—incorporating our LLC, developing a website, obtaining insurance and selecting a legal research service. Yet, while these foundational tasks are pivotal to any law firm’s creation, there were also more nuanced considerations that drove our initial success. After a reflective six-month period, here is what we learned:

Choose Your Partner Wisely

Selecting the right business partner is paramount. Choose a partner who has skills that complement yours. Mara, a corporate and transactional attorney, is organized and detail-oriented. She handles our corporate documents and works with our bookkeeper and accountant. Lisa, a litigator, is creative and enjoys problem-solving. She manages JG Legal’s social media and spearheads the firm’s marketing and business development efforts. Notably, even with our distinct roles and skills, we converge seamlessly on vital aspects like finances. We are always on the same page. The success of JG Legal was underpinned by our tested partnership.

Be Prepared to Wear Multiple Hats