What does Collin bring to the table?
♦ COMPREHENSIVE LEGAL SUPPORT ♦
Preparation of Draft Pleadings, Agreements, & Forms
I have experience drafting a variety of pleadings and agreements, including but not limited to: complaints, various motions and responses, discovery requests and answers, subpoenas, affidavits, stipulations and proposed orders, settlement agreements, operating agreements, garnishment forms, eviction forms, and various LLC filings. When I prepare initial document drafts for your review and finalization, you stay practicing law, not worrying about the “busy work”.
File Organization & Management
HARD COPY FILES
I have experience restructuring hard copy file organization systems and implementing sound management techniques for ongoing use. The capacity of restructure depends on the current condition of the firm’s hard copy file system. First, I review each hard copy file and ensure all documents are scanned and saved in the electronic file management system. Next, I re-organize each hard copy file, ensuring proper categorization, labeling, and a table of contents are in place. While working through each file, I create internal excel logs to document each case file and the contents within. These logs are used to create a star schema for the new file organization system with specific ID numbers for each file, helping to maintain file organization even when files are stored in a number of locations.
ELECTRONIC FILES
The method used to restructure a firm’s electronic file organization system also depends on the current situation and needs of the firm. At a very basic level, the electronic file system will be restructured to match the star schema created for the hard copy file system; this will involve file management via file explorer, and will help with ongoing efficiency for document retrieval, document searching, and internal business organization. At the next level, I evaluate the potential need for a Document Management Software (DMS). After working with over six DMS’ and comparing the pros and cons of each, I can facilitate the introduction of a DMS in a law firm’s day to day practice. Some DMS’ can cost $50,000/year, and others can cost $60/year; when engaging with a DMS, it is important to know which options are necessary and which are not. I am sensitive to the high level of document security that law firms must adhere to; when choosing a DMS, I evaluate server infrastructure and physical server storage location to ensure all firm cloud storage content will stay secure. I also consistently search for opportunities to innovate and cross collaborate between systems, for instance a smart phone app can be introduced where you can always access all firm files.
Screening Potential Clients
Let me screen potential new clients so you can stay billing hours. I will be a welcoming and patient host who will provide potential clients with their desired amount of hands on and detailed service, professionally, and consistent with firm values. I will gather information relating to their matter, gather contact information, explain any predetermined firm message (e.g. C.O.I. checks, standard retainers, document transfer), and promise to timely follow up with them in the appropriate agreed upon manner.
Proposed E-Mail Drafting
Imagine receiving a comprehensive report detailing all active firm matters, the status of each matter, and proposed emails or draft documents associated with each matter for your review and execution. This is what I can do; an updated report can be prepared daily, twice a week, weekly, or bi-weekly, and can increase attorney productivity by keeping them on track, up to date, and attentive to all matters. The proposed email may be a client update or a proposed email to opposing counsel consistent with the firm’s identified case strategy. It is expected that the attorney edits or adds to proposed emails that have substantial content. The comprehensive report is always prepared with minimal review time in mind, meaning I understand the importance of time to an attorney and do not want to waste their time reading unnecessary content. However, I take pride in providing thorough reports with the goal of leaving no relevant question unanswered. Contact me to learn more!
Scheduling – Filing – Serving
I can handle scheduling, filing, and serving on behalf of the firm. I can coordinate with opposing counsel, court clerks, court reporters, and clients via e-mail and phone, regarding scheduling for various events. I can finalize filings, prepare exhibits, table of contents, table of authorities, exhibit lists, proofs of service, and notices of hearings, and both file all respective documents and serve them on all necessary parties.
Brand Building – Social Media & Website Optimization
♦ Is your brand strong, does it convey an effective message, and does it work?
I can lead a firm’s online marketing campaign. From step one to the finish line, Write Now Help can create an online marketing plan, refine the plan, and execute the plan in a systematic way, ensuring the firm’s goals are forwarded. My data analytics capabilities continue to grow and I am pleased to produce real data to aid with business decision-making. I can also act as a marketing consultant and make recommendations on ways to increase the firm’s sphere of influence and reach potential clients.
I can freshen up a firm’s website with new and captivating methods that will ensure the firm stays current and competitive within the market. Or, I can create a firm’s website from scratch, providing design concepts, themes, and content writing. With graphic design support, I can update a logo or create additional logo engagement pieces. With video production support, I can help facilitate the creation of a promotional video to showcase firm values and make a powerful impact with respect to overall online presence. If interested, we can then step into the world of keyword optimization and google analytics, to make a powerful online impact, fast.
Marketing Design Materials
Creating high quality design materials may be easier than you think, provided that you have access to the necessary software and have basic skills using the software. Write Now Help has partnered with Adobe’s Creative Cloud, providing me with access to over 26 apps used for creating various marketing materials. I use InDesign CC 2017 to create business cards, letterhead, envelopes, flyers, invitations, newsletters, articles, and more! Ask me about some of my other frequently used Adobe apps and how they could help you!
Press Releases, Newsletters, & Internal Reports
I can assist overall business processes by efficiently and effectively preparing various writing deliverables, whether intended for internal or external use. Perhaps a noteworthy case or settlement warrants a press release, or maybe an e-marketing campaign warrants a client newsletter. Not only can I write the piece on behalf of the firm, but I can further format the piece to provide an engaging yet professional appearance, so that the effectiveness of each piece is maximized.
Training Documents & Instructional Manuals
The internal business documents that I prepare now will stay with the firm forever. So, why wait? Detailed training documents and instructional manuals for future employees can be very beneficial, especially if a firm has plans for future growth. Whether it is a regularly repeated legal task, or an administrative responsibility, proper documentation leads to increased efficiency and solidified business infrastructure.
Additional Support Services
Contact Collin now and decide if Write Now Help is the right partner.
Write Now Help LLC 