Solo Law Practice Startup Checklist
47%
of attorneys practice solo or in firms of 2-5 lawyers
6-12
months typical startup timeline for solo practice
85%
of successful practices start with comprehensive planning
Startup Phases and Timeline
Business Foundation
Timeline: Months 1-2
- Choose business entity structure (LLC, PC, sole proprietorship)
- Register business name and obtain necessary permits
- Apply for Federal Tax ID (EIN) and state tax registrations
- Open business bank accounts and establish business credit
- Obtain required business licenses and registrations
- Set up business address and registered agent if needed
Professional Setup
Timeline: Months 1-3
- Obtain professional liability (malpractice) insurance
- Get general business liability insurance
- Join state and local bar associations
- Register with attorney referral services
- Set up IOLTA trust account if required
- Establish CLE tracking and compliance system
Technology Infrastructure
Timeline: Months 2-3
- Set up practice management software system
- Establish secure email and communication systems
- Create professional website with basic content
- Implement document management and backup systems
- Set up online payment processing capabilities
- Install security software and protocols
Client Acquisition
Timeline: Months 3-6
- Develop marketing materials and brand identity
- Create client intake and onboarding procedures
- Build referral network and professional relationships
- Establish online presence (social media, directories)
- Develop fee structures and standard agreements
- Launch initial marketing and networking activities
Startup Cost Estimates
Typical ranges for solo practice startup costs (excluding personal living expenses)
| Category | Low Range | High Range | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal and Professional | $2,500 | $8,000 | Formation, permits, professional consultations |
| Insurance | $1,500 | $5,000 | Professional liability, general liability, first year |
| Technology | $3,000 | $12,000 | Hardware, software, website, security systems |
| Office Setup | $5,000 | $25,000 | Rent deposits, furniture, equipment |
| Marketing | $2,000 | $10,000 | Website, materials, initial advertising |
| Operating Capital | $10,000 | $50,000 | 6-month operating expense reserve |
| Total Range | $24,000 | $110,000 | Varies significantly by location and practice type |
Essential Documentation Checklist
Required Documents:
- Articles of incorporation or LLC formation documents
- Business license and professional permits
- Professional liability insurance policy
- Client fee agreements and engagement letters
Additional Documents:
- Employee handbook (if hiring staff)
- Privacy policies and data security protocols
- Trust account agreements and procedures
- Office lease or purchase agreements
Practice Area-Specific Considerations
Family Law:
- • Guardian ad litem certification
- • Mediation training and certification
- • Child support calculation software
- • Court reporting and deposition services
Personal Injury:
- • Case management software for PI firms
- • Medical records retrieval services
- • Expert witness networks
- • Litigation funding relationships
Criminal Defense:
- • Court-appointed counsel registration
- • 24/7 availability systems
- • Bail bond company relationships
- • Investigation and expert resources
Estate Planning:
- • Document preparation software
- • Financial planning partnerships
- • Trust administration procedures
- • Notary services and witnessing
First Year Success Metrics
Financial Targets:
- • Monthly revenue of 1.5x fixed expenses by month 6
- • Break-even operations by month 8-12
- • 6-month operating expense reserve maintained
- • Client accounts receivable under 90 days
Operational Targets:
- • 50+ active clients or matters by year end
- • Response time under 24 hours for client inquiries
- • 30%+ client acquisition through referrals
- • Billable hour target of 1,500-1,800 annually