nursinglawbandit

Multi-State Law Practice: Pros and Cons

Do you practice law in more than one state? Do you find that the benefits of multi-state licensure outweigh the burdens (CE, licensure fees, travel, etc.)? What advice do you have for other attorneys about a multi-state law practice?

I paid $270 to renew my Kentucky license and $110 for Indiana this month. I attend the Kentucky Law Update (two days of CLE) every year to cover my CLE requirements and its free. Don't ask me the CLE requirements for each state.

Its challenging but enjoyable. I practice law in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. I live in Cincinnati and its about the same distance (90 minutes give or take 15 minutes) for me to drive to Columbus (Ohio Board of Nursing), Indianapolis (Indiana Board of Nursing), or Louisville (Kentucky Board of Nursing). The majority of my cases are in Ohio and Kentucky with just a few in Indiana.

Unlike most licensure defense attorneys, I represent only nurses primarily because I have to stay abreast of law, rules, and standards in the three states. Also I want it my way, like at Burger King, so I decided early on that I wanted to work primarily with other nurses. I practice med mal defense in my big firm days and worked primarily with dentists and physicians.

Recognizing the Need for Assistance

This is week 2 of my sister working as my legal assistant and I love it! I finally have someone I trust assisting me with administrative and clerical tasks. This allows me to focus more on practicing law. She is working five days a week and 3-4 hours a day.

It took me a while to recognize that I needed assistance. Its tough to delegate when you are accustomed to doing everything yourself. But I like this!

Working with a Family Member: For Better or For Worse!

I need some assistance with my law and consulting firm. Not alot of assistance but just a little with clerical and administrative tasks.

My sister is going to assist me on a trial basis starting next week. Its already off to a questionable start because she didn't show up for training on Wednesday afternoon.

I will try her out with small tasks initially:

1. Scheduling Appointments

2. Following-Up with Prospective Clients; and

3. Proofreading Documents.

I have a feeling however that I will be firing her before she starts!  Does anyone care to share any stories?

How Do You Know When You Need Help?

I think I may need assistance with my practice. I have farmed out projects for years, i.e. assistance with direct mailings, Christmas Cards, designing brochures, etc. I advertised for a independent contractor type arrangement in the Ohio Nurses Review. I am receiving a decent response considering the ad just appeared last week.

Delegating is tough because you want to do everything yourself; I do anyway. I am not rushing into bringing anyone on board with my companies. I will take my time and interview until I find someone I can trust.