Law Practice Management

Law Practice Management - Assistant Dean Devra Hermosilla

• Course Number: LAW-497
• Course Type: Foundational
• Credits: 2
• Enrollment Limit: Determined by the Registrar
• Description: The course provides a practical view of how to start, operate, and manage your legal practice – with a focus on law firm and solo practice, while also incorporating other practice settings. Topics explored include: understanding practice fundamentals, law practice as a business, law firm structures and logistics, financial management, timekeeping, billing, and trust accounts, marketing plans, client management, human resources, practice tools and technology, issues surrounding professionalism and reputation management, common ethical issues and obligations, key resources for Oregon attorneys, and the basics of risk management and professional liability. Students will explore course topics by researching and drafting interim assignments and a small firm/solo business practice plan, which will be submitted at the end of the course. Class participation individually and in groups is strongly encouraged. While particularly relevant to students planning on a career in small firm or solo practice, this course will benefit any new attorney. Graded on a CR/NC basis.
• Prerequisite: none
• Evaluation Method: Final project; class participation
• Capstone: no
• WIE: no