The Strategic Benefits of Lawyers Working in a Co-Working Facility

By Frank A. Lauletta, Esq. *

As with the rest of the office market, the space needs of law firms are also evolving, with more law firms exploring innovative office solutions. However, a fully remote workplace is not effective for lawyers since a lawyer's work product is often better after collaboration with peers having different experiences and different levels of knowledge among the multitude of practice areas and legal issues that often arise. Since the facts surrounding many legal issues often illicit more questions than answers, law schools have traditionally taught in the Socratic method where professors teach through questioning knowing that there is usually not a single correct answer. This ability to collaborate and ask questions is even more important for junior lawyers who can learn greatly from interacting and discussing legal issues with experienced lawyers. When I started in the private practice of law in 1996, I worked in large Philadelphia law firms and felt not only gratitude but also relief to have so many experienced attorneys around me to bounce questions off of and generally learn how to analyze legal issues and practice law. During those early years I was told that it takes five years before a young lawyer will really start to see the bigger picture and practice with confidence, and looking back I can attest that those postulators were right. Even today, after practicing for close to 30 years, I still find it extremely helpful to collaborate with other lawyers to hone my approach to legal issues and make sure I am seeing every potential angle.

Despite the benefits of working with or among other lawyers, an overwhelming majority of lawyers work solo or in small firms (2-9 attorneys). Lawyers practicing solo or in small firms can enjoy the benefits of working in a larger organization by working with or among other lawyers or law firms in a shared environment such as The Hamilton CollectiveTM, which is a co- working facility designed for lawyers in Philadelphia, PA. Facilities such as The Hamilton Collective can house multiple independent firms and solo practitioners under one roof, offer a range of benefits that can enhance the practice of law, improve client service, and even foster personal growth for lawyers. Here are some key advantages:

1. Cross-disciplinary Learning and Collaboration

Coworking spaces can offer a vibrant community of legal professionals from various specialties. This diversity allows lawyers to easily consult with peers on complex cases or business transactions that require multi-faceted legal expertise, leading to more comprehensive advice for clients. Such collaboration can enhance the reputation of each lawyer and contribute to more effective problem-solving.

2. Cost Efficiency

Establishing an office in a coworking space can significantly reduce overhead costs associated with traditional office leasing. These spaces typically offer flexible terms that can be adjusted as the firm grows or downsizes and oftentimes do not require long-term leases traditionally found in the office leasing market. The shared use of high-end amenities such as conference rooms, legal libraries, and technology support also cuts down on individual investment costs.

3. Networking and Business Development

Being part of a coworking community places law firms in a dynamic environment ripe for networking. Regular interactions can lead to referrals and new client engagements. This is particularly valuable for smaller firms or newly established practitioners looking to expand their client base.

4. Professional Environment

Coworking spaces are designed to foster a professional atmosphere that can impress clients. They often feature well-appointed reception areas, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, and administrative services that enhance the professionalism of small firms or solo practitioners. Maintaining a professional image is crucial in the legal industry. Coworking spaces often provide well-designed, professional environments that are ideal for client meetings. These spaces can enhance a firm's credibility and overall professional image, which is essential for building trust with clients.

5. Reduced Administrative Burdon

Having the landlord or operator worry about the facility and the common areas such as conference rooms, bathrooms, cleaning, high speed internet access, and related technology helps reduce the overwhelming administrative burdens that often plague those practicing solo or in small firms. It is important to ensure your facility offers adequate protection of confidential information and security protocols such as fire walls to protective your clients' sensitive information and to ensure compliance with applicable rules of professional conduct.

6. Work-Life Balance

The flexibility inherent in coworking spaces, including options for remote work support and no long-term lease commitments, can contribute to better work-life balance for lawyers. This flexibility allows lawyers to more effectively manage their time between professional responsibilities and personal life.

7. Innovation and Growth

Operating within a coworking space exposes law firms to innovative practices and technologies adopted by fellow lawyers. This can inspire firms to adopt new technologies and business models, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and growth.

8. Market Expansion

Coworking spaces positioned in diverse geographical locations can serve as a low-risk entry point for law firms looking to test new markets. By establishing a presence in a coworking space in a different city or region, law firms can assess the market's viability without substantial upfront investment.

In conclusion, coworking spaces offer law firms a modern, flexible, and collaborative environment that can lead to significant professional and financial benefits. By sharing space with a diverse array of legal professionals, law firms can enhance their service offerings, reduce costs, and create opportunities for networking and growth, all of which are crucial for thriving in today’s competitive legal market.

* About the Author: Frank Lauletta is a corporate attorney specializing in software and other high-tech industries. Frank co-founded the Lauletta Birnbaum LLC law firm in 2009. In addition, Frank has been instrumental in the co-working space since 2007 having founded multiple co-working facilities including The Trade Lofts®, Incutate® and, most recently, The