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How Lawyers With Purpose and Its Members Embrace Core Values to Build Thriving Law Firms

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At Lawyers With Purpose, our success is deeply rooted in a set of core values that shape both our personal and professional lives. These guiding principles are more than just ideals—they are the bedrock of our community and the key to building a thriving law firm. 

Here’s how our unique set of core values—Open, Curious, Aware, Collaborative, Adaptable, and Generous—can drive your firm’s success:

1. Open: Embracing Possibilities

  • Definition: We remain open to new possibilities and innovative ideas that may not have been previously considered.
  • Application: By fostering an environment where creativity and exploration are encouraged, you can adapt to industry changes and enhance client service, leading to new growth opportunities.

2. Curious: Seeking Knowledge

  • Definition: We cultivate curiosity, asking questions and seeking information both within and beyond our organization.
  • Application: Promote a culture of continuous learning. Stay informed about legal trends and advancements to maintain a competitive edge and deepen your expertise.

3. Aware: Understanding Dynamics

  • Definition: We stay attuned to our own and others’ behaviors that impact progress and recognize unique talents that streamline our path to success.
  • Application: Develop a keen awareness of team dynamics and personal strengths. Address obstacles proactively and create an environment that enhances efficiency and collaboration.

4. Collaborative: Leveraging Talents

  • Definition: We work together, utilizing diverse talents to create effective solutions and achieve desired outcomes.
  • Application: Emphasize teamwork and collective problem-solving to foster innovation and enhance overall effectiveness, resulting in better outcomes for your practice.

5. Adaptable: Embracing Change

  • Definition: We accept that change is a natural part of growth and embrace it to advance ourselves and our firm.
  • Application: Maintain a flexible mindset and be ready to adjust strategies in response to evolving market conditions and client needs, ensuring your firm remains resilient and progressive.

6. Generous: Sharing Without Expectation

  • Definition: We generously share our talents and resources with colleagues, clients, and the community without expecting anything in return.
  • Application: Cultivate a culture of generosity within your firm and with clients. This approach enhances relationships, builds trust, and strengthens your firm’s reputation and community connections.

What Makes Lawyers With Purpose Unique?

LWP stands out in the legal industry for its comprehensive approach to attorney development, focusing not only on legal skills but also on business acumen and personal growth. Here are the key aspects that make LWP unique:

  1. Holistic Approach to Practice Growth:
    • Focus Beyond Law: LWP emphasizes teaching attorneys how to build and sustain a successful business, rather than just practicing law. This involves a blend of legal training, practice management, and personal development.
    • Infrastructure and Systems: Attorneys receive support in establishing robust infrastructures and systems that promote sustainable growth and profitability.
  2. Engaged and Collaborative Community:
    • Supportive Network: LWP fosters a highly engaged and collaborative community where attorneys support each other’s growth and success. The active listserv is a hub for sharing insights, best practices, and referrals.
    • Partnership Mentality: Members view each other as partners rather than competitors, contributing to a culture of collective advancement.
  3. Annual Taper Event:
    • Comprehensive Training: The Taper event is a hallmark of LWP, offering extensive training and development opportunities. It features a unique format where members can learn from each other’s successes and use the event as a planning session for future goals and strategies.
    • Inspiration and Networking: The event serves as both an inspirational experience and a critical networking opportunity for members.
  4. Proprietary Software and Documents:
    • Integrated Solutions: LWP’s proprietary software, STEPS™, offers a fully integrated document drafting and practice management system. It includes client-centric features, patented Medicaid planning capabilities, and seamless workflow integration.
    • Industry-Leading Resources: The software and legal documents provided are considered top-tier in the industry, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in practice management.
  5. Multi-Tiered Membership Model:
    • Structured Growth: LWP’s membership is structured in three tiers—Legal Foundation, Law Firm Building, and Law Firm Growth—each offering increasingly advanced training, coaching, and resources.
  6. Commitment to Member Success:
    • Personalized Support: LWP demonstrates a deep commitment to the personal and professional success of its members, providing support through various challenges and life events.
    • Continuous Care: This level of individualized care and support is a significant differentiator, ensuring that members’ practices remain successful and resilient.

LWP’s unique value lies in its holistic approach to attorney development, its collaborative community, innovative resources, structured membership model, and unwavering commitment to member success. 

Our distinct core values are not just principles but actionable strategies that drive our member’s  success. At Lawyers With Purpose, we turn industry challenges into opportunities by providing:

  • Comprehensive Estate Planning Solutions: From marketing and sales to operations, estate planning, and asset protection.
  • Exclusive Software: Industry-leading tools for drafting and managing legal documents, Medicaid and VA solutions.
  • Training & Development: Our Teach, Show, Do, Go…Grow™ methodology for effective learning and implementation.

Our members benefit from a robust support network that includes our list-serv, LWP Weekly Calls, and The Annual Practice Enhancement Retreat (TAPER). These resources foster professional growth and strengthen our community.

The 5-Step Member Success Process

  1. Assess: Evaluate operational efficiency, legal knowledge, marketing tactics, and team dynamics.
  2. Strategize: Develop a one-year plan for operations, marketing, and personal development.
  3. Perform: Implement strategies through group calls, training, and performance tracking.
  4. Community: Engage with fellow members for best practices and support through various platforms and events.
  5. Accountability: Regularly review and track progress to ensure goals are met and strategies are adjusted as needed.

By embracing these core values, Lawyers With Purpose and its members lead with purpose and achieve remarkable success. 

Explore our offerings or contact us today to learn how we can support your firm in realizing these values and driving growth.

Want to become a member and start building a thriving law firm business? Start here. 

Recent Legal Changes in Estate Planning

Recent Legal Changes in Estate Planning: Insights from Our Monthly Member Training Roundtables

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Estate planning is a quickly changing field, constantly influenced by updates in elder law, tax law, and family law. Recent legislative changes, including the SECURE Act, the Corporate Transparency Act, modifications to Medicaid qualification rules, and potential changes in law firm ownership requirements, have made it essential for estate planning attorneys to stay updated. 

To keep up to date with recent legal changes in Estate Planning, At Lawyers With Purpose (LWP), our Monthly Member Training Roundtables provide an invaluable resource, equipping attorneys with the knowledge and tools to learn about these changes effectively. 

Significant Legal Changes in Estate Planning 2024

The SECURE Act

In recent years, the SECURE Act has significantly impacted the retirement planning landscape. This legislation redefined the categories of IRA beneficiaries, introducing designated beneficiaries, eligible designated beneficiaries, and non-designated beneficiaries, each with distinct rules for inheriting IRAs. While some beneficiaries still benefit from stretching IRA distributions over their lifetime, most are now subject to a 10-year payout period.

Beneficiaries inheriting IRA funds face unexpected tax consequences, as they must distribute the assets within a decade. This often coincides with their highest-earning years, potentially pushing them into higher tax brackets. Although beneficiaries can use the inherited funds to cover taxes, estate planning attorneys must explore strategies to minimize the tax burden. These strategies might include shifting the tax responsibility to the IRA owner during their lifetime or considering alternate beneficiaries, such as disabled individuals who can still enjoy a lifetime stretch, or charitable organizations.

Understanding these nuances and guiding clients through these complexities will set estate planning attorneys apart in their communities.

Corporate Transparency Act

The Corporate Transparency Act, signed in 2020 and taking effect in 2024, mandates increased transparency for business owners to combat financial crimes. However, its constitutionality is currently being litigated, with debates on its impact on small businesses. Some view the legislation as an unconstitutional burden, while others see it as necessary to address financial crimes.

Estate planners, CPAs, and business owners are closely monitoring the outcome of these litigations. The impact of this legislation is significant, as it requires small business owners to comply with new reporting requirements, adding administrative burdens and potential legal complexities.

Non-Lawyer Ownership of Law Firms

Historically, the American Bar Association’s Model Rules prohibited non-lawyer ownership of law firms. However, states like Utah and Arizona have relaxed these restrictions, allowing for some non-lawyer investment and ownership in legal service companies. California is also beginning to loosen its rules regarding fee-sharing between attorneys and non-attorneys.

The rationale behind these changes is to make legal services more cost-effective and accessible. The rise of legal-adjacent services and online platforms offering low-level legal services at lower prices has driven this shift. Estate planning attorneys should be aware of these changes but focus on delivering high-quality, valuable services to distinguish their practice in the community.

Estate Tax Exemption Sunset

The estate tax exemption, doubled by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017, is set to expire on December 31, 2025. Without legislative intervention, the exemption will revert to 2017 levels, adjusted for inflation. This impending change raises significant planning questions for estate planning attorneys, particularly for high-net-worth clients.

Time is of the essence for advanced tax planning, as asset transfers often need to occur in specific tax years. Estate planning attorneys must proactively discuss the potential impacts with their clients and develop strategies to mitigate tax liabilities. The upcoming presidential and congressional elections will likely influence whether the estate tax sunset proceeds as scheduled.

Benefits of Monthly Member Training Roundtables

The Monthly Member Training Roundtables at LWP are crucial for estate planning attorneys. These one-hour webinars cover a diverse range of topics, including legal education, operations, marketing, finance, and team training. Hosted by LWP specialists, these sessions offer prepared content along with interactive discussions, creating a collaborative learning environment.

Staying Updated and Compliant

These webinars ensure members stay informed about legal changes and maintain compliance with relevant estate planning statutes and regulations. Recent webinars have addressed the Corporate Transparency Act, state-specific topics like Transfer on Death Deeds, and Michigan’s adoption of the Uniform Power of Attorney Act. By keeping abreast of these changes, LWP members can confidently guide their clients through changes in the law. 

Enhancing Practice and Client Service

Beyond compliance, the webinars provide practical insights on adapting business operations, adjusting pricing strategies, and marketing approaches. This comprehensive approach helps attorneys enhance their practice, making them more efficient and competitive. Offering the most up-to-date information and innovative solutions establishes LWP members as trusted advisors in their communities.

Many LWP members have successfully navigated recent legal changes with the support of these training roundtables. For instance, members have effectively implemented strategies for handling IRA distributions under the SECURE Act, minimizing tax burdens for beneficiaries. Others have streamlined their practice operations based on insights from webinars, leading to increased efficiency and improved client satisfaction.

Future Training Topics by Lawyers With Purpose

Looking ahead, LWP will continue to address pressing issues like the sunset of the estate tax exemption, advancements in legal technology, and ongoing developments related to the SECURE Act and Corporate Transparency Act. The topics for these webinars are often suggested by members, ensuring they are timely and relevant.

Want to join Lawyers With Purpose?

For estate planning attorneys, staying informed about legal changes is crucial. LWP’s Monthly Member Training Roundtables offer an excellent opportunity to gain valuable insights, improve practice operations, and connect with a supportive community of like-minded professionals.

Join Lawyers With Purpose to access these invaluable training sessions and stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of estate planning law. 

Schedule a demo today by contacting Briana Moriarty at bmoriarty@lawyerswithpurpose.com. 

For more information about upcoming sessions, visit the LWP events calendar

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Estate Planning Software

The Benefits of STEPS™

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We’d love to update you on what we’re doing so far at Lawyers With Purpose (LWP) with our new initiative, Strategic Trust and Estate Planning Software (STEPS™). 

Learn about our new document drafting software here.

As of July, we have made significant strides, and we’re excited to share our progress. We’ve initiated 70% of our member attorneys and their drafting teams into the new system. We’ve been busy hosting group and individual welcome calls, receiving useful feedback, and starting office hours for members to drop in with their STEPS™-related questions. 

Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure our members feel supported during this transition. This shift promises long-term improvements, aligning us with our strategic goals, and providing our members with enhanced tools to digitize their law practices.

Key Benefits of STEPS™ Revisited

Independent and Cloud-Based

STEPS™ is truly independent and cloud-based, setting it apart from traditional desktop-based systems and those reliant on Actionstep. Here are the key advantages:

  1. Accessibility and Flexibility:
    • STEPS™ can be accessed directly through the Knackly platform or via a Knackly plug-in within Actionstep.

    • Being cloud-based allows multiple users within a law firm to access the system simultaneously from different locations, enhancing collaboration and efficiency.

  2. Integration Capabilities:
    • Through Knackly, STEPS™ integrates seamlessly with other CRM systems. This flexibility means our members can choose the platforms that work best for their firms.

    • Knackly integrates with CRMs such as Clio, FileVine, NetDocuments, OneDrive, and Curo365. It also supports more legal apps via an API and a Zapier connection than any other platform.

User Experience and Accessibility

LWP STEPS™ enhances user experience and accountability for estate planning attorneys in several ways:

  1. Improved Interface:
    • The new system features a modern, user-friendly interface. The interview process is streamlined into a single long page, eliminating the need to navigate through multiple screens.

  2. Comprehensive Document Generation:
    • LWP STEPS™ generates detailed, client-centered documents. It offers thousands of combinations of questions and answers to ensure each client’s unique goals are met.

    • The system features reactive questions that appear based on previous answers, help text for legal nuances, and saved answers for efficient drafting.

  3. Accountability and Searchability:
    • Users can track who drafted each client’s plan, search interviews by client name, drafter, or date, and take notes directly in the system, aiding in paper reduction and digitization.

  4. Frequent Updates:
    • The cloud-based nature of LWP STEPS™ allows for more frequent updates, responding to changes in law and member feedback quickly and efficiently.

Specific Features and Functionality

  1. Core Features:
    • LWP STEPS™ provides estate planning documents that set our members apart. For example, our iPug® is a pure Grantor trust, offering flexibility and control while providing asset protection.

    • The software includes progressive personalization, such as gender-neutral terms and pronoun options for all individuals named in the plan.

  2. Customization and Flexibility:
    • Users can set defaults for firm and staff information. There are also “Scenarios” for common drafting situations, enhancing efficiency and customization.

Early-Bird Incentive for STEPS™

To encourage early adoption with estate planning attorneys, we are offering a special incentive for those who sign up for STEPS™:

  1. First Month’s Membership Applied Towards TAPER:
    • Sign up for LWP STEPS™ today, and your first month’s membership payment will be applied toward a seat at The Annual Practice Enhancement Retreat (TAPER).

    • TAPER is a multi-day seminar that brings the LWP community together to share ideas, enhance legal knowledge, network with like-minded attorneys, and enjoy a bit of fun. It includes CLE-eligible legal sessions, innovative marketing strategies, and tips for running a successful legal practice.

  2. Promotion Validity:
    • This promotion is valid until September 15, 2024, providing a great opportunity for early adopters to gain additional value from their membership.

Signing up early for LWP STEPS™ not only gives you access to cutting-edge estate planning software but also provides you with the chance to attend TAPER, an invaluable event for professional development, legal education and networking.

Law Firm Reviews

Estate Planning Marketing: Strategies to Boost Your Law Firm Reviews

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Looking to capture more law firm reviews? If you have a digital footprint, online reviews are needed for the success of any law firm, especially those specializing in estate planning. Service-based businesses often thrive on word of mouth and testimonials and reviews act as positive signposts that you’re a trusted law firm. 

This is because positive reviews can significantly enhance your firm’s reputation, build trust with potential clients, and ultimately attract more business. 

This blog post will provide you with practical strategies to increase the number and quality of reviews for your law firm, helping you to stand out in a competitive market.

The Importance of Online Reviews for Estate Planning Law Firms

Online reviews are a powerful tool for building your law firm’s credibility. Potential clients often turn to reviews to gauge the reliability and professionalism of a firm before making contact. Positive reviews can act as strong endorsements of your services, while negative reviews, if managed properly, can provide opportunities for improvement and demonstrate your commitment to client satisfaction.

Consider the Different Ways to Collect Reviews

Estate planning attorneys serve a diverse range of clients, from those comfortable with digital platforms to others less familiar with navigating the online world. To effectively gather client feedback, it’s important to utilize multiple distribution channels, such as both digital and paper-based methods. 

For instance, attorneys can create review cards for clients to fill out by hand, or generate QR codes that link directly to online review pages. Some clients, particularly those who may not be inclined to leave online reviews, can still provide feedback through traditional methods. Incorporating a feedback section on the firm’s website, utilizing free directory pages like Avvo and Super Lawyers, and offering QR codes that link to a comprehensive review page ensures that all clients have the opportunity to share their experiences. 

Given that many clients, especially those over 55, may not prioritize technology, providing a variety of review options, including paper cards and easy-to-use QR codes, accommodates all preferences and enhances the collection of valuable client reviews.

Encouraging Estate Planning Clients to Leave Reviews

One of the most effective ways to garner more reviews is simply to ask for them. Here are some strategies to encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews:

  1. Direct Requests: After a successful case or consultation, personally ask your client if they would be willing to share their experience. A direct, polite request can be very effective. For example, you might say:
    • “Mr. Smith, it was a pleasure working with you on your estate plan. If you have a moment, could you share your experience on our Google review page? It would help others in similar situations find the right support.”
  2. Follow-Up Emails: Sending a follow-up email is a convenient way to request reviews. Here’s a template you can use:
    • Subject: We Value Your Feedback!

Body:

Dear [Client’s Name],

Thank you for choosing [Your Law Firm’s Name] to assist with your estate planning needs. We hope we were able to meet and exceed your expectations. 

We strive to provide the best service possible, and your feedback helps us improve. Would you be willing to share your experience by leaving a review on [Google/Yelp/Avvo]? 

Here is the link to our review page: [Insert Link]

Thank you for your time and support.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Law Firm’s Name]

  1. Client Feedback Forms: Including a review request in your client feedback forms can be very effective. For example, after a client has filled out a survey about their experience, you can include a note at the end saying:
    • “Thank you for your feedback. If you’d like to share your experience with others, please consider leaving us a review on [Platform]. Your input is invaluable to us.”

Timing and Approach for Law Firm Reviews

Timing is critical when asking for reviews. The best time to request a review is soon after the service has been rendered and the client is satisfied with the outcome. Here are some ideal moments to ask for reviews:

  • After a Successful Outcome: Right after a successful resolution of a case or completion of a service. For example, immediately after signing a will or completing an estate plan, you might say, “I’m glad we were able to finalize your estate plan today. If you’re happy with our services, would you mind leaving us a review?”
  • During Follow-Up Communications: During follow-up calls or emails when you check in with your clients. For instance, you can include a review request in a follow-up email that checks on how they are settling into the decisions made.

Responding to Estate Planning Practice Reviews

How you respond to reviews, both positive and negative, can significantly impact your firm’s reputation. Here are some best practices:

  • Responding to Positive Reviews: Always thank clients for their positive feedback. Personalize your response to show genuine appreciation and reinforce the positive experience. For example:
    • “Thank you, Jane, for your kind words. It was a pleasure assisting you with your estate planning needs. We’re thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience with us.”
  • Handling Negative Reviews: Address negative reviews professionally and promptly. Acknowledge any issues raised, apologize if necessary, and offer to resolve the problem offline. This shows that you care about client satisfaction and are willing to make improvements. For example:
    • “Dear John, we’re sorry to hear about your experience. We take your feedback seriously and would like to discuss this further to resolve any issues. Please contact us at [phone number/email] so we can make things right.”

Estate Planning: Managing Reviews Across Platforms

To maximize the benefits of online reviews, focus on managing them across multiple platforms:

  • Google My Business: This is essential for local SEO and visibility. Encourage clients to leave reviews on Google. Include a direct link to your Google review page in your emails and on your website.
  • Yelp: Popular for service-based businesses, including law firms. Ensure your Yelp profile is up-to-date and actively request reviews.
  • Avvo and other legal directories: Specifically designed for legal professionals, Avvo reviews can significantly impact your credibility in the legal community. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on Avvo by providing them with easy access to your profile.
  • Facebook: Many estate planning clients use facebook so it’s a good idea to set up your own business profile and start collecting reviews on there too. 

Use Reviews in Marketing Your Estate Planning Law Firm

Leverage positive reviews in your marketing efforts to build trust and attract new clients:

  • Website Testimonials: Feature client reviews and testimonials prominently on your website. Create a dedicated testimonials page or highlight them on your homepage.
  • Social Media: Share positive reviews on your social media profiles to showcase your firm’s successes. Use eye-catching graphics and quotes from reviews to make them more engaging.
  • Marketing Materials: Include excerpts from reviews in brochures, newsletters, and other marketing materials. For example, a brochure could include, “Our clients say: ‘Excellent service and professional staff.’ – Jane Doe.”

Tools and Technologies for Reviews

Several tools and software solutions can help you manage and solicit reviews more efficiently:

  • Review Management Software: Platforms like BirdEye, Podium, and ReviewTrackers can help automate the review request process and monitor reviews across various sites. These tools can send automated follow-up emails and track your firm’s online reputation.
  • Email Marketing Tools: Use tools like Mailchimp or Constant Contact to send follow-up emails requesting reviews. These platforms can help you design professional emails and track their effectiveness.

Ethical Considerations for Managing Law Firm Reviews

Maintaining ethical standards is crucial when managing reviews:

  • Transparency: Ensure that all reviews are genuine and voluntary. Avoid paying for reviews or writing fake reviews.
  • Compliance: Follow guidelines set by legal professional bodies and review platforms to avoid any conflicts of interest or ethical breaches. For example, always disclose if a review was incentivized.

Measuring Success of Reviews

To assess the effectiveness of your review strategies, track these metrics:

  • Number of Reviews: Monitor the total number of reviews across all platforms. An increasing number of reviews indicates a successful strategy.
  • Average Rating: Track changes in your average rating to gauge overall client satisfaction. A higher average rating suggests improved client experiences.
  • Review Frequency: Measure how frequently new reviews are being posted. Frequent reviews indicate active client engagement and satisfaction.

Get more online reviews for your estate planning practice

Online reviews are a vital aspect of your estate planning law firm’s marketing strategy. By encouraging satisfied clients to leave reviews, responding to feedback professionally, and leveraging positive reviews in your marketing efforts, you can significantly enhance your firm’s online presence and reputation.

Want to join Lawyers With Purpose Membership?

Start implementing these strategies today to boost your law firm’s reviews and attract more clients. If you’re looking for more tailored advice or additional resources, contact us for membership information. 

There are different levels of support available. Whether you’re seeking foundational support, strategic growth, or advanced performance enhancement, LWP offers tiered solutions designed to drive your success.

Explore Lawyers With Purpose Membership Tiers:

  • Tier 1: LWP Legal Foundation – Perfect for those starting out or looking to solidify their foundational practices 
  • Tier 2: LWP Firm Building – Ideal for firms ready to expand their operations and optimize their practice with tailored support.
  • Tier 3: LWP Firm Growth – Designed for established firms aiming for significant growth, advanced coaching, and industry-leading tools.

Contact Us Today to learn more about which membership tier aligns with your goals and to start your journey towards transformative growth. 

Reach out to our team via email or call us at Schedule a demo today by contacting Briana Moriarty at bmoriarty@lawyerswithpurpose.com, and let us guide you to the perfect solution for your practice’s needs.

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Potential Components of a Profitable Estate Plan Maintenance Program

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The TLC™ Estate Plan Maintenance & Fee Guarantee Program offers all of the services listed below. Remember: This information is intended to provide you with an idea of what a maintenance program can offer. Your program must reflect your clients’ needs and your firm’s capabilities.

The TLC™ Estate Plan Maintenance & Fee Guarantee Program EPLC includes:

  • A quarterly newsletter 
  • The hosting of an annual social event 
  • Free review of documents with agents and/or family members at disability and/or death 
  • Invitations to public events sponsored by EPLC
  • Phone calls by clients or their advisors to office staff at no charge 
  • An annual client meeting for groups of clients aimed at keeping client documents current within the changing legal environment 
  • A complimentary meeting for family members to explain the client’s estate plan upon his or her death or disability 
  • “Word processing” amendments to estate planning documents requested by the client 
  • Specialized and Advanced planning workshops offered throughout the year
  • Assistance with funding new assets 
  • An annual trust review 
  • A guaranteed, discounted fee to administer the client’s estate plan after death. For clients who remain in the program, we will guarantee the family (in writing) a fee of 1% rather than the customary 5-7%

As you can see, this is an extensive program. You might also have discerned that the components of the plan involve services that do not cost you a great deal of money or “attorney time.” For example, let’s say a client wants to make a simple change to a will or trust, like swapping out a daughter for a son. You already have the client’s documents in your system, so making a change like that is easy. Or consider the annual client group meeting, where all of the clients’ changes can be made at once. Your staff can handle the vast majority of such changes, as well as client calls, a newsletter, and the program’s various social events.

Your maintenance program provides enrollees with easy access to your firm and a sense of belonging to the “firm family.” It will also provide them with the peace of mind that comes from knowing the plan will work, and that the firm will be there to counsel family members in the event of the client’s incapacity and/or death. All of this sets your firm apart from competitors that do not offer a maintenance program. In addition, your program creates loyalty, a bond with your clients. We’ll talk about the benefits of  that next time.

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CLE Opportunity! Dave Zumpano Co-Presents as Part of March 11, 2020 Medicaid Seminar Hosted by The Rossdale Group

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The costs of healthcare & long-term care have dramatically increased in recent years. Yet, only a small minority of clients has adequate insurance and funding for this required assistance. At the same time, the spend-down of assets to qualify for government & elder benefits has changed over the years and become more complex. For most of the population, public benefits, including Medicaid & other government benefits, provide the principal funding of care. This has caused an unprecedented need for counsel fluent in asset planning & protection techniques to assist clients needing to qualify for government assistance. The faculty for this program features a national authority in the subject, who will cover tools for spend-down’s, exempt vs. non-exempt assets, differences between singles and married couples, the effect of future medical expenses on government benefits, and the landscape of Medicaid & medical expense planning. Lawyers With Purpose Founder co-presents “Mastering Medicaid Spend-downs, Government & Elder Benefits CLE” on March 11, 2020.

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Building Profitable Referral Relationships: The Importance of Consistent Touches

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GettyImages-1060988036People have different needs regarding the amount of attention they want to receive in a relationship. For some of your referral sources, getting together once a year might be fine. Other sources might want to meet every six months, or even once a month. If the referral source is providing you with plenty of profitable leads, track the frequency of your touches to ensure you’re meeting his or her needs.

You also want to track the goals of each touch. Is the meeting strategic and focused on future opportunities? Is it a joint workshop or presentation? Is it a review meeting designed to make sure the expectations of both parties are being met?

Tracking touches allows you to ensure your relationship is moving forward and that it’s on solid ground. Remember: You’re not the only attorney in town. The last thing you want is a competitor swooping in and “stealing” your referral source simply because you haven’t done enough to keep the relationship going. Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a hand-written thank you note. It may seem old-fashioned, but it works.