Knowledge Management in Law Firms

Barriers and Strategies

Law Firms

Law Firms

Barriers at the Firm

• Don’t fix if it ain’t broke

– Billable hours– KM = IT– Law firm Culture

How would KM add value to the firm?

Law Firm Economics

Law Firm Culture

Strategies for Success

• Change the basis of charging clients

» Increase hourly rate» Fixed price

• Increase efficiency of non-billable tasks

» Reduce need for support services

Strategies for Success

• To change the culture….

» Understand the power of language» Base your case on authorities» Be open to criticisms» Partners must champion the project» Involve lawyers in decision making

The New Law Firm