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Dear Fellow
Practitioner,
I am currently enjoying
my second career as a professional writer -- feel free to check out
http://www.rebakennedy.com/.
Meanwhile, since the
practice of acting as support counsel is relatively new to
Texas, I've left these frequently asked questions:
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What is Support Counsel?
Law firms of all sizes, as well as
corporate counsel, face a very competitive
marketplace.
The use of experienced, professional,
dependable contract counsel provides a respected, viable
solution to the fluctuations in client needs and overhead
demands.
Support counsel is a
new type of practice, recognized by the
ABA since 2000.
It's
efficient.
When an overwhelming
workload arises, existing staff is not overwhelmed -- with
the resulting decrease in productivity -- and no
permanent hire is required. There may be
no need to refer your client's matter.
It's
profitable.
The firm has little
expense: it pays only the Support Counsel's hourly
rate on that particular matter, and not for any corresponding fixed
or variable overhead costs, such as staff allocation or office
space, as well as avoiding medical insurance or malpractice
coverage. (Support counsel, as opposed to temporary,
contract attorneys, have their own coverage in both
areas.)
In addition, the firm may surcharge
the Support Counsel's rate, bringing profit to the
firm. The guidelines are provided on this site, and
they include client approval of the arrangement.
It is a win-win
situation.
You don't want to
risk a temporary contract attorney who may find a job, change
locations, or otherwise let you down.
Support counsel
is an established, professional niche: an experienced lawyer who
stands in the gap.
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This website is not intended for the public
at large, but is focused specifically upon the Texas legal
profession. Unfortunately, inquiries from those other than
licensed attorneys cannot be answered; instead, those members of the
public with legal questions are encouraged to contact their
local bar association for assistance.
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