Building a legal practice isn’t a one-time project. It’s an ongoing process of defining your goals, designing your approach, executing consistently, and adapting over time. Whether you’re just starting out or hoping to take your practice to the next level, it helps to have a framework—something to guide your decisions, keep you grounded, and surface the questions that matter most.
Below is a 12-step model I use with lawyers who are building their practices. It’s structured around three phases: strategy, planning, and execution. Each question seems simple on its face. But many—especially No. 5—require reflection, experimentation, and regular refinement. I recommend revisiting all 12 questions at least once a year to stay aligned and intentional about how you’re building.
Phase One: Strategy—Get Clear on What You’re Building