Solo and small firm lawyers often play crucial roles in family law, estate planning, criminal defense, real estate, business formation, immigration, employment, elder law, and many other fields. Solo and small firm practices often provide lawyers with autonomy and creativity in their work and the satisfaction of building lasting client relationships and contributing to access to justice in their communities.
Completing an externship or residency in a solo or small firm in the practice area you intend to pursue is excellent preparation for this pathway. Visit other Pathways for information about practice-area-specific externships, residencies, or clinics.
Other experiential courses that may be of interest.
Professional Development & Post-Graduate Opportunities
Many graduates interested in launching or joining a solo/small-firm practice benefit from participating in a law-firm incubator (sometimes called a law practice incubator or solo/small firm incubator). These programs are now offered in many jurisdictions across the United States and support early-career attorneys in building sustainable, independent practices by providing resources such as mentorship, business-skills training, workspace, discounted technology, and attorney networks.
Typical features of law-firm incubators include:
- Business development and marketing assistance (client intake, referral networks, pricing strategy)
- Practice-management infrastructure (software access, office space or co-working, reduced overhead)
- Legal-practice mentorship and supervision (for attorneys launching new practices)
- A focus on expanding access to legal services for low- and moderate-income communities
Because these incubator programs vary by state, institution, and focus area, students are encouraged to explore options early.
If you are considering launching a solo or small-firm practice after graduation, please contact Professor Leanne Fuith to learn more about available incubator programs in your jurisdiction, how to evaluate and apply to them, and how your coursework and experiential learning can prepare you for success.
Resources for Solo and Small Firm Lawyers
- ABA Solo, Small Firm, and General Practice Division
- ABA Law Practice Division – Practice Management Resources
- Lawyerist – Guides and Tools for Small Firm Success
- Minnesota State Bar Association – Solo and Small Firm Section
