Not too long ago, bar associations began to study access to justice issues and ways to implement change to better serve the public. Personally, I wanted to be a part (albeit however small) of that solution. When recently opening my own firm, I made a conscious decision to provide old-school legal services with the modern benefits of technology. Basically—a client-driven approach.

For instance, by offering reduced and hybrid rates as well as monthly payment options, the once priced-out-of-the-market clients could now afford counsel to assist with their legal needs.

Another aspect that I sought to implement which seemed to be diminishing in the marketplace was the traditional notion of attorneys as “counselors” at law. Yes folks, we are counselors. It is not simply about hearing the words from a client, but actually listening to his or her concerns and objectives vis-à-vis the legal needs. Although it may be another notch in your belt, your client’s legal issue may consume his or her waking hours. This goes hand-in-hand with being empathetic to your client.

I also found that meeting your clients where they are and being real with them goes a long way. Literally, being accessible to your client at various times and locations is quite helpful and accommodating. But it is also beneficial to be on the client’s level. As an unrelated example, I recently visited a younger doctor for the first time who primarily has older patients (by one look around the waiting room). However, when he met with me, he immediately assumed the role of a GenXer/Millennial without missing a beat and I instantly felt comfortable with him. The takeaway here is to be a chameleon as needed to ease your clients. The more comfortable they are with you, the easier the attorney-client relationship will be. And it goes without saying that you need to be responsive. Not only will the client appreciate this, but it will keep you out of trouble with the Bar.

My experience, thus far, is not unique. I have encountered a number of young lawyers who have opened their own practices in the past five years or so who are doing very well because they have utilized some of these principles. I am confident that honoring the basic tenets present in any successful service-based industry will propel young lawyers into the new age of delivery of legal services.

*Sorraya M. Solages-Jones is the Sole Owner and Managing Member of SMS|JONES LAW, PLLC in Wellington, FL, an appointed member of The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division Board of Governors, and former President of the Dade County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section.