DHIA exists to help our customers and prospective customers find appropriate solutions for their business insurance needs. We created this podcast to provide an audio version of our informational resources. We deliver insightful information on Professional Liability Insurance, discuss business insurance solutions, and unpack the phases of running a business. Sign up for our email reminders on new episodes: https://share.hsforms.com/1oNwbKQW8SieD0oIeAMY1Hg34l7a
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Subscribe to Secrest Wardle’s podcast pertaining to various areas of the law. Host contact information will be provided along with each podcast. Questions and/or comments from listeners are encouraged. Secrest Wardle is a law firm specializing in defense litigation and counsel for insurance, municipal, and commercial clients headquartered in Troy, Michigan, with an additional office in Grand Rapids. For additional information, please visit www.secrestwardle.com, send an email to info@secrest ...
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10 Leading Reasons Attorneys Get Sued and Mitigating the Risks Involved
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In this episode, we discuss the ten top reasons attorneys get sued. We break down the risks associated, cover the impact the error or omission can have on a client, and share tips to mitigate risk in your law practice. The 10 leading reasons discussed are: negligence, breach of confidentiality, missing filing deadlines, inadequate case evaluation, …
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Law Firm Billing Best Practices and Software Solutions
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In this episode, we discuss legal billing best practices, cover five popular software options, and share tips to help you choose the right legal billing software solution for your law firm. We discuss the features, benefits, and pricing of the following legal billing software options: Clio Bill4Time TimeSolv MyCase Zola Suite Accurate and efficient…
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10 Tips to Level Up Your Customer Service
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Customer service is essential for acquiring, retaining, and referring clients, making it foundational to a law practice's success. In this episode, we share ten tips to enhance customer service and discuss ideas on how to implement them and their impact. More Resources: Grow Your Law Practice with Client Referrals Client Relations Checklist Task Ev…
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Are you busy, or are you productive? Busy and productive are often erroneously and interchangeably used. In this episode, we break down the differences and how you can use both to your advantage. We will also cover multiple productivity tips and strategies you can start implementing today! Here are the few popular time-management techniques and str…
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Communication is the Key to a Successful Law Firm
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In business, especially in the ever-evolving legal space, communication is an invaluable tool that has distinguished itself as the master key to success. Effective communication requires an understanding of various elements and quality communication requires deeper skills that can be enhanced. In this episode we discuss tone, body language, active …
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Premises Liability v Ordinary Negligence (Condition v Conduct) - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar discusses Open & Obvious and the difference between Premises Liability & Ordinary Negligence Hosted by: Justin A. Grimske Senior Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, please email Marketing Assista…
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Understanding the Stealth of Social Engineering Tactics
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In this episode, we delve into Social Engineering. We discuss the tactics of attack cybercriminals use and outline defensive best practices to implement in your law firm. While this episode focuses on Social Engineering, we also go over other common cyber threats law firms should be aware of and what should be included in cybersecurity training. Mo…
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Insurance and Indemnity Issues - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar discusses Open & Obvious in cases involving Insurance & Indemnity Issues Hosted by: Matthew J. Consolo Senior Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, please email Marketing Assistant Sandie Vertel, a…
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The Costs and Benefits of Having Cyber Liability Insurance
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In today's digital age, the rise of cybercrime fuels the dreams and ambitions of cybercriminals. If you aren't actively defending your data and protecting your business with cyber insurance, you could be supporting their dreams. In this episode, we explore the costs and benefits of Cyber Liability Insurance. We'll discuss the differences between st…
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Liability for Animal Attacks - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar discusses Open & Obvious in cases involving animal attacks. Hosted by: Cleveland B. Simmons Executive Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, please email Marketing Assistant Sandie Vertel, at sverte…
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Key Differences Between Cyber Liability Insurance and Data Breach Insurance
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According to IBM's 2024 Cost of a Data Breach report*, the global average cost of a data breach is at $4.88M, a 10% increase from last year. Many attorneys hear about these large losses and think they're immune. The reality is that law firms store sensitive information that is lucrative to cybercriminals. In this episode, we discuss the differences…
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Special Considerations for Landlords - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar discusses Open & Obvious in relation to landlords. Hosted by: Samantha J. Orvis Executive Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, please email Marketing Assistant Sandie Vertel, at svertel@secrestwar…
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Who is Responsible for Law Firm Security Breaches? [Replay]
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Think you're protected? You might be surprised. Even after taking precautions, you could still find yourself facing a lawsuit. But why? In this episode, we break it down: Who owns the data when you use a third-party payment processor? Who is liable for a data breach involving third-party services? What about attorneys accepting credit card payments…
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Notice - Knowing What Was Wrong - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar discusses Notice. Hosted by: Lauren A. Sterrett Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, please email Marketing Assistant Sandie Vertel, at svertel@secrestwardle.com. The updated 2024 Secrest Wardle P…
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In this episode, we are discussing cybersecurity in your email inbox. Email plays a critical role in our lives, which makes it an attractive target for cybercriminals. Understanding the desire for email access and the tactics used to get in is paramount. Underestimating cybercriminals by thinking your email information isn't captivating is fallacio…
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Recreational Land Use Act - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar discusses the Recreational Land Use Act, and whether it applies to the open and obvious defense. Hosted by: Daniel S. Schrode II Executive Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, please email Marketi…
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The leading cyber threat remains human error. A user's inadvertent actions create openings for cybercriminals to breach networks and gain unauthorized access to data. So, today, we are discussing how these errors happen, the tactics cybercriminals use to trick users, and some best practices for implementing and mitigating risk. Listen to our Season…
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Landowner Liability for Independent Criminal Acts - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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Presented by: John L. Weston, Executive Partner - TroyBy Secrest Wardle
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Defending Against Ransomware Attacks, Around Since 1989
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Today, we are taking a deep dive into ransomware attacks. What they are, how long they've been around, and proactive measures you can take to protect your law firm from this cyber threat. Ransomware attacks have been around for decades, starting with a floppy disk in 1989. Evolving and creatively attacking businesses and everyday users to encrypt s…
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Third Party Contractors - 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar discusses the duty of a third-party contractor, whether the open and obvious defense applies to third-party contractors. Hosted by: Mary T. Doll Executive Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, plea…
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Do You Use Multi-Factor Authentication for Everything?
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In this episode, we discuss multi-factor authentication, how it protects data, and why it should be used for everything. 2023 held the record for cybersecurity breaches in the legal industry, compared to the previous five years combined. Take today's episode as your sign to recognize the exposures and the vitality of safeguarding your information w…
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The Use of Statutory Immunity in Amusement & Leisure Claims – 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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This webinar provides an update regarding the definitions and scope of the Ski Area Safety Act, the immunity provision in the Act and its application to hazards identified therein; the use of waivers; the use of statutory immunity in defending roller skating centers, bowling alleys, and horse stables. Hosted by: Amber R. Holloway Executive Partner …
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Is Your Law Firm Prepared for a Cybersecurity Breach?
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In this episode, we go over what a cybersecurity breach is, what it could mean for your law firm, and how you can prepare to protect your data. According to an article from Forbes Advisor, data breaches have increased 72% since 2021. The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center reported that more than 880,000 complaints were made by cybercrime victims…
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Open and Obvious Defense – 2024 Premises Liability Webinar Series
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The first installment in Secrest Wardle's 2024 Premises Liability Webinar series discussing open and obvious defense strategies. Hosted by: Mark F. Masters Senior Partner Secrest Wardle, Troy If you are not already on our distribution list, to receive invitations to register for the Premises Liability webinars correlating to our podcasts, please em…
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Tune in as we recap an interview with Managed IT expert Zachary Wilcoxen. He shares some important and manageable steps law firms can take to manage the risks associated with remote and hybrid workforces. For more on Zac's company, Pretect Managed IT Services, visit their website at https://pretect.us/. More Resources: Cyber Liability Self-Assessme…
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What is Data Breach Insurance and Why You Need It
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Data Breaches are shockingly common. It's never safe to assume that your business isn't vulnerable. In this episode, we go over what Data Breach Insurance is, the two main types, and what it covers. We also share four tips to help protect your law firm and a valuable resource to quantify your risk. More Resources: Cyber Liability Self-Assessment Pa…
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Reviewing the Cyber Liability Self-Assessment
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Can you financially survive a cyberattack? Are you as prepared as you want to be in terms of financial status, insurance coverage, or processes? This Cyber Liability Self-Assessment was designed to help you answer these vital questions in three thoughtful steps. Take your assessment and create an action plan. More Resources: Cyber Liability Self-As…
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Q&A: Professional Liability Insurance Questions Answered
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In this episode, we answer over a dozen questions commonly asked by attorneys and law firms about Professional Liability Insurance. Insurance policies differ. There are different types of insurance, forms, and carriers, and each carrier will be different. It's important to understand the policy you're purchasing. Ask questions and stay curious abou…
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Protecting Yourself with Automatic Renewal Processes
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In this episode, we are going over a few tips to help protect yourself when your professional liability insurance carrier offers an automatic renewal. As we talk about and often say here, Lawyers Professional Liability Insurance is a unique line of insurance. Its complexities require your vigilance. If your carrier offers an automatic or expedited …
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Price vs. Value: Making Informed Choices When Shopping for Lawyers Professional Liability Insurance
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While it is essential to have a budget for Lawyers Liability Insurance, price should not be the sole determining factor. Law is dynamic, and your professional liability insurance should be tailored to fit your practice. If it's not, the money you spend on insurance is wasteful. In this episode, we want to help you understand why this common practic…
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Navigating Your Professional Liability Policy: Reporting a Claim & Your Rights Under the Policy
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If you think not reporting a potential claim is helpful or wise, this episode can help you avoid this common mistake! Attorneys purchase a Lawyers Professional Liability Insurance policy for various reasons. No matter your reason, understanding the rights you have under your policy and how not exercising your rights can be detrimental to your insur…
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Lawyers Re-Entering the Admitted Market After Placement in the Non-Admitted (Surplus Lines) Market
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Many factors can contribute to law firms being attractive to admitted insurance carriers. The good news is you can control some of them. One of our seasoned agents, Stephen Dimiceli, who is well-versed in attorney malpractice insurance sat down for an interview and talked through how attorneys can navigate their way back to the admitted market afte…
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No one likes unpleasant surprises, especially in business. An unwelcome surprise specific to a law practice is a legal malpractice claim. Some attorneys protect their practice with Lawyers Professional Liability Insurance in preparation for potential claims, but many assume a lawsuit won't happen to them. In this episode, we cover a few common scen…
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How Attorneys Should Approach Malpractice Claims
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How soon should you involve your carrier when you're faced with a malpractice claim? Immediately. In this episode, we explain why immediate reporting is necessary and in your best interest. We also discuss whether there's ever a time that an attorney should represent themselves in a malpractice suit. After listening, go download your checklist to N…
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The Difference Between Claims-Made and Occurrence Policies
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Understanding the differences between occurrence and claims-made policy forms can empower you to confidently purchase insurance that meets your unique needs. In this episode, we are going to break down what you need to know about these two different policy forms to give you the knowledge and confidence to ask the right questions, help you understan…
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Don’t Wait for Renewal: What Firm Changes to Report to Your Insurance Agent ASAP
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Don’t allow a lapse in communication to jeopardize the protection of your law practice. A continuously updated policy will save you time at renewal and will protect your law firm from any loss of coverage that can occur from an outdated policy. In this episode, we are going over some key changes you'll want to promptly report to your agent or carri…
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High Risk Areas of Practice (AOPs) with Respect to Professional Liability Insurance
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Understanding a carrier's thought processes regarding risk is not always straightforward. However, it's important to make an effort to understand areas of practice (AOPs) from a carrier's perspective. In this episode, we are shedding light on how a high claim frequency can impact a specific area of practice across the board, view high-severity AOPs…
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How Sharing Office Space with Other Attorneys Can Cost You More Than You Expected
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It is not uncommon for disgruntled clients of attorneys to list everyone in the building in a lawsuit. If you share office space with another attorney or law firm, you are susceptible to the same fate… Dealing with a lawsuit. In this episode, we discuss the challenges of shared office space, how the IRS can cramp your style, and how shared office s…
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Reducing Exposure from a Shared Office Space and Responding to a Suit
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Sharing office space with other attorneys can lead to unexpected complications and problems, which can result in your name being mentioned in a lawsuit unrelated to your legal services. Office sharing is common, and many attorneys make it work. Which is why today, we're going over some tips to reduce your legal exposure. Like most matters, focus on…
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How Solo Practitioners Can Build a System of Collegiality
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According to the Washington Post, "Lawyers outranked other professionals on a 'loneliness scale in a survey of more than 1,600 workers". When you start your own law practice, this sense of isolation increases. Maintaining collegiality is challenging, but possible. In this episode, we're going to explore a couple of ways solo practitioners and small…
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Tips for Protecting Your Law Practice & Legal Career
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You made it through law school, worked hard to start your practice, and strive to grow your firm… Now what? You protect it all as you build it to be all you've imagined. In today's episode, we are going over 7 quick tips to help you protect the law practice you've worked so hard to start and strive to grow. From the initial consultation with a pote…
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Basic Sales Metrics for Law Firms with RJon Robbins [Replay]
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Tracking sales may seem like a simple process, but what you don’t know may be holding you back. As Edward Deming once said, "If you don't know how to ask the right questions, you discover nothing." We want to make sure you are asking the right questions so that you can uncover what your law firm is missing and take action to improve it. This episod…
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5 Tips for Navigating Law Firm Success This Year – Part 02
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Navigating success is a forever-adapting formula. However, there are foundational cornerstones to help you maintain a clear roadmap no matter the outside forces. In Part 01 last week, we went over the importance of goal setting and reflection. Today we are covering our final three tips for law firm success: leveraging data and metrics, adapting to …
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5 Tips for Navigating Law Firm Success This Year – Part 01
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Navigating success is a forever-adapting formula. However, there are foundational cornerstones to help you maintain a clear roadmap no matter the outside forces. This is Part 01 in a two-part episode where we will go over 5 strategies to keep in your law firm playbook. Today we dive into reflection and goal setting. Setting Goals is a dreaded task …
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How Lawyers Can Increase Client Retention by Using a Service Hub
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Lawyers get a bad rap, and the legal system's nature makes it challenging for law firms to improve customer satisfaction scores. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), the challenge to making sure all clients are fully informed is so considerable that the number one complaint received by every state bar is that the lawyer didn’t keep the …
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How a Legal Client Service Hub Can Reduce Malpractice Claims
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Malpractice claims are bad news that can have negative consequences. They can make you less appealing to carriers, increase your insurance premiums, damage your professional reputation, and even result in conflicts with the state bar. With stakes this high, it is important to take all possible measures to prevent being hit with a malpractice suit. …
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Grow Your Law Practice with Client Referrals
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Referrals can be a great way to expand your business. Learning how to ask for referrals can be an effective way to attract new client opportunities. Receiving a referral is the highest compliment you can receive as a professional. It is also cost-free advertising that can help you conserve the time you spend marketing your business. Listen in for s…
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PPC for Law Firms – Getting Started with Google Ads
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Typically, individuals seek the services of a lawyer when something goes wrong, or they fear something might soon take a turn for the worse. Such situations can be a source of great stress and concern. This is an ideal setting for you to come to the rescue and put their mind at ease. Kevin Adams is the founder and CEO of Predictive Online Marketing…
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The process of loss prevention is the ability to identify or minimize the liability and risks threatening a law firm. Loss prevention is critical to law firms, and although allegations are made against a law firm and found groundless, a firm’s reputation may be compromised. In the past few years, there have been numerous publicly reported settlemen…
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Time is Money – Time Saving & Management Tips for Attorneys
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“Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time.” -Jim Rohn In this episode, we are discussing how evaluating how you use your time can be a game changer for your law practice. Squandered time is a leak in your profits. Taking the time to evaluate all your tasks and processes can help you identify where you c…
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