Grow Your Law Firm

Welcome to episode 282 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Mark Bassingthwaighte, Esq., Risk Manager at ALPS, an attorney’s professional liability insurance carrier.  In his tenure with the company, Mark has conducted over 1200 law firm risk management assessment visits, presented over 650 continuing legal education seminars throughout the United States, and written extensively on risk management, ethics, and technology. Mark is a member of the State Bar of Montana as well as the American Bar Association where he currently sits on the ABA Center for Professional Responsibility’s Conference Planning Committee. He received his J.D. from Drake University Law School. When he’s not helping lawyers mitigate risk, he’s enjoying all things Disney and lives in close proximity to the House of the Mouse    What you’ll learn about in this episode: 1. Importance of Cyber Insurance:     - Essential for all legal practices to protect against cyber threats.     - Smaller firms are also targets for cyber breaches with severe financial consequences. 2. Underwriting Process for Standalone Cyber Coverage:     - Thorough details about security measures are required.     - Risks of misrepresentation can lead to denial of coverage. 3. Compliance with Security Measures:     - Crucial to implement declared security measures for coverage.     - Warning against complacency to avoid serious consequences. 4. Accessibility to Risk Management Support:     - ALPS Insurance offers risk management services for legal professionals.     - Support available regardless of insurance status. 5. Specialization in Legal Insurance:     - ALPS Insurance provides tailored legal malpractice and cyber insurance.     - Increasing cyber threats emphasize the need for robust security measures and comprehensive coverage. Resources:    Website: www.alpsinsurance.com [https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alpsinsurance.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7CTyBackhus%40pilmma.org%7Cf86626c75be0442577f908dd5fdbde56%7C2f3c99da8c3f4d1ab7349a8f28d4a496%7C0%7C0%7C638772120184995136%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=8BgObkITRbEsoJjuClcg7LZHguElsAXJef2VfAaf4TA%3D&reserved=0] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alps-corporation/ [https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Falps-corporation%2F&data=05%7C02%7CTyBackhus%40pilmma.org%7Cf86626c75be0442577f908dd5fdbde56%7C2f3c99da8c3f4d1ab7349a8f28d4a496%7C0%7C0%7C638772120185027555%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=fp8po1Ig1cxqUz0Ux5Sq6Q22pNINocgUCUB7G1k2ChU%3D&reserved=0] Facebook:  [http://goog_1431757564/]https://www.facebook.com/alpscorporation/ [https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Falpscorporation%2F&data=05%7C02%7CTyBackhus%40pilmma.org%7Cf86626c75be0442577f908dd5fdbde56%7C2f3c99da8c3f4d1ab7349a8f28d4a496%7C0%7C0%7C638772120185047536%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=CU7RjiQYSzfET7H%2BI3y65A1R023UDTAvpSO1Oh%2FdQqA%3D&reserved=0]   Additional Resources:    https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop [https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop] https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect [https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect] https://www.pilmma.org/resources [https://www.pilmma.org/resources] https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind [https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind]

Welcome to episode 281 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Gabriel Stiritz, the founder and CEO of Lexamica, the platform powering Plaintiff Law 2.0 – a specialized model for injury law firms.  As a legal operations innovator and industry visionary, Gabriel sees trends like marketing firms generating leads at scale, AI-driven case management, and high-value trial specialists shaping the future. With firsthand experience in the traditional vertically-integrated law firm model, Gabriel understands how technology, regulatory changes, and capital are transforming the industry. He helps law firm owners thrive through specialization and tech-enabled collaboration, rather than being disrupted by these changes. Gabriel’s background spans legal operations, technology development, and multi-state firm management, offering insights into both the business and practice of law. He is passionate about helping law firms adapt to technological change while maintaining core values of client advocacy and professional excellence.   What you’ll learn about in this episode:   1. Focus on Relationship Marketing: - Building strong relationships sets you apart from big competitors who may struggle with this due to their size. - Clearly define why clients should choose your firm over larger competitors or alternative business structure firms. 2. Niche Specializations Are Valuable: - Consider specializing in a specific area of law to stand out and become a boutique firm. - Engaging with the community and leveraging past clients for referrals can lead to significant growth. 3. AI Disruption is Inevitable: - Embrace AI technology as it is expected to revolutionize law firm operations, potentially doubling firm capacity. - Intake departments may be replaced by AI voice agents within the next 12 to 18 months, highlighting the need to adapt to new technologies. 4. Brand Building is Essential: - Developing a strong brand can create a competitive advantage in a noisy marketplace. - Ensure your return on ad spend considers both internal and external case acquisition, emphasizing the importance of a robust referral strategy. 5. Law Firm Differentiation: - Differentiate your firm by focusing on niche practice areas, community engagement, and building a reputable brand. - Stay mindful of advertising ethics and the importance of ethics boards keeping pace with rapidly evolving marketing tactics in the legal industry.        Resources:  Website: Lexamica [https://lexamica.com/] LinkedIn: Gabriel Stiritz | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-stiritz/]    Additional Resources:    https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop [https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop] https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect [https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect] https://www.pilmma.org/resources [https://www.pilmma.org/resources] https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind [https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind]

Welcome to episode 280 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down again with Micki Love, President & Chief Client Strategist at cj Advertising.   Micki has a long history of using her marketing and management skills to help firms solve operational obstacles and maximize their potential. From implementing cutting-edge intake departments to launching cj Advertising, her insight on strategy and leadership helps guide firms to exceed their own expectations.   What you’ll learn about in this episode:   1. Key Focus on Branding and Growth:    - Maintaining brand continuity while revamping processes is crucial for consistent brand image.    - Tailoring growth strategies to individual needs rather than imitating larger firms ensures successful growth. 2. Importance of Role Adaptation:    - Embracing multiple roles as firms grow is essential for meeting evolving demands effectively.    - Customizing marketing strategies to align with unique firm goals enhances client engagement and growth potential. 3. Emphasis on Expertise and Marketing:    - Prioritizing expertise in legal services, as seen in John Morgan's litmus test, ensures high-quality client service.    - Leveraging database marketing enables firms to engage existing clients and drive growth through personalized communication. 4. Enhancing Process Efficiency:    - Improving intake processes continuously enhances efficiency and simplifies client onboarding.    - Engaging in industry summits provides networking opportunities and insights into industry trends for firms seeking growth. 5. Commitment to Continuous Learning:    - Prioritizing continuous learning and improvement allows firms to adapt to market changes and enhance service quality.    - Strategic adaptation and process adjustments aligned with the firm's growth phase are vital for sustained success and expansion in the legal industry.   Resources:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cjAdvertising/ [https://www.facebook.com/cjAdvertising/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cj-advertising/posts/?feedView=all [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cj-advertising/posts/?feedView=all]   Additional Resources:    https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop [https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop] https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect [https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect] https://www.pilmma.org/resources [https://www.pilmma.org/resources] https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind [https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind]

Welcome to episode 279 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Brooke Birkey, owner of Level Up Law Firm Business Coaching, a consulting firm that helps law firms unlock hidden revenue, safeguard profits, and scale efficiently. With extensive experience in law firm operations, Brooke specializes in optimizing intake systems, streamlining workflows, and enhancing profitability. As a Law Firm Recruiter and Trainer, Brooke helps firms attract and develop top legal talent, building high-performing teams and strong workplace cultures. Her career spans from receptionist to marketing director, giving her a unique understanding of where firms lose money—and how to fix it. Brooke offers actionable strategies that boost conversions and eliminate profit leaks. Featured on top legal podcasts like Law Firm Blueprint and They Don’t Teach This in Law School, she shares success stories and practical insights that drive immediate financial results. Her dynamic, results-focused coaching makes her a trusted expert for firms ready to grow. What you’ll learn about in this episode: 1. Exceed Expectations Through Insight - Importance of Under Promising and Over Delivering - Understanding Client Needs for Effective Marketing 2. Customized, Scalable Coaching Solutions -Tailoring Programs to Law Firms' Specific Lifecycle - Scalability of Coaching Programs for Firms of All Sizes 3. Diagnose & Design for Growth - Conducting Assessments to Identify Lost Revenue and Opportunity Costs - Providing Blueprint for Growth and Scaling 4. Client-Centric Team Training - Focus on Client Communications and Time Management for Enhanced Client Experience - Training Case Managers for Effective Client Interactions 5. Elevating the Client Experience- Creating Clarity for Clients in Legal Processes - Implementing Concierge Model for Client Interactions   Resources: Website: https://leveluplawfirmcoaching.com/ [https://leveluplawfirmcoaching.com/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bj6nxTrGgyc&list=PL-ypj0dMP6CRTcq4ctWzhMCPNrb20HQCx&index=11 [https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Dbj6nxTrGgyc%26list%3DPL-ypj0dMP6CRTcq4ctWzhMCPNrb20HQCx%26index%3D11&data=05%7C02%7CTyBackhus%40pilmma.org%7Cc0c8969a916745dd174708dd633d811e%7C2f3c99da8c3f4d1ab7349a8f28d4a496%7C0%7C0%7C638775838087119328%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=UwwTPd%2BlqJvRoAkd%2F4FTAElzQ%2FP7rnM24eyHdOdDI08%3D&reserved=0] Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leveling-up-your-intake-with-brooke-birkey/id164055797 [https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpodcasts.apple.com%2Fus%2Fpodcast%2Fleveling-up-your-intake-with-brooke-birkey%2Fid164055797&data=05%7C02%7CTyBackhus%40pilmma.org%7Cc0c8969a916745dd174708dd633d811e%7C2f3c99da8c3f4d1ab7349a8f28d4a496%7C0%7C0%7C638775838087131859%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nuREtDvZweLt0Ixel94MiYOc0UKqPz99Kf8vMTeUK4s%3D&reserved=0] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14a9HA99LD/?mibextid=wwXIfr [https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F14a9HA99LD%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr&data=05%7C02%7CTyBackhus%40pilmma.org%7Cc0c8969a916745dd174708dd633d811e%7C2f3c99da8c3f4d1ab7349a8f28d4a496%7C0%7C0%7C638775838087143607%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2BLhvaP%2BTbMGJnpWv26Yf4YSw8aMRL1zG0ra%2Bs1KIaUI%3D&reserved=0] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brookebirkey [https://nam11.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fbrookebirkey&data=05%7C02%7CTyBackhus%40pilmma.org%7Cc0c8969a916745dd174708dd633d811e%7C2f3c99da8c3f4d1ab7349a8f28d4a496%7C0%7C0%7C638775838087155763%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=1XrEBMz99WsoWRtczPyTD9WdYXLZJDqy%2FmbKuhnh%2Faw%3D&reserved=0]   Additional Resources:  https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop [https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop] https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect [https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect] https://www.pilmma.org/resources [https://www.pilmma.org/resources] https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind [https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind]

Welcome to episode 278 of the Grow Your Law Firm podcast, hosted by Ken Hardison. In this episode, Ken sits down with Jeff Zigman, Co-Founder and CTO of TRUEclaims, a groundbreaking platform transforming the way personal injury law firms handle vehicle damage claims.  With over 11 years of experience as a CTO and tech entrepreneur and 13 years as a business analyst, Jeff has led the design and development of more than 300 software solutions—16 of which he built entirely solo. A 23-year martial arts veteran and devoted family man, Jeff is married with two young children. His resilience and dedication are reflected in his work: TRUEclaims succeeded where 19 other software companies failed over a 15-year stretch. Under Jeff’s leadership, TRUEclaims has rapidly grown to serve over 100 personal injury firms, turning a frustrating and often-neglected part of the claims process into a streamlined, value-generating system. TRUEclaims empowers law firms by transforming vehicle damage claims into a seamless process and a powerful marketing asset, helping clients recover thousands—and even tens of thousands—of dollars more, faster. What you’ll learn about in this episode:   1. Streamlined Report Generation for Faster Case Resolution - TRUEclaims software enables law firms to quickly generate diminished value and fair market value reports, saving time and improving accuracy. - Reports that once took hours now take minutes, accelerating case resolution and client settlements. 2. Increased Client Compensation Through Accurate Valuations - Accurate valuations from TRUEclaims often raise client compensation by thousands of dollars. - Law firms gain stronger leverage in insurance negotiations, leading to higher settlements and client satisfaction. 3. Competitive Edge in Client Acquisition and Retention - Integrating TRUEclaims into intake processes positions law firms as leaders in property damage claims. - Offering the software as a standard service helps firms stand out and attract more clients. 4. Flexible and Cost-Effective Pricing Model - Reports cost between $220 and $300, with bulk discounts available for high-volume firms. - Law firms have flexible billing options, including passing costs to clients or offering it as a value-added service. 5. Proven Impact on Settlement Outcomes - TRUEclaims has helped secure major settlement increases, including $49,000 for a Rolls Royce and $9,100 for a Ford F250. - Firms using the software achieve faster and larger settlements, benefiting both clients and attorneys.   Resources:  https://trueclaims.io/attorneys?partner=PILMMA [https://trueclaims.io/attorneys?partner=PILMMA]   Additional Resources:    https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop [https://www.pilmma.org/aiworkshop] https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect [https://www.pilmma.org/the-mastermind-effect] https://www.pilmma.org/resources [https://www.pilmma.org/resources] https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind [https://www.pilmma.org/mastermind]