Legal Office Procedures OFAD 351

Chapter 1: The Legal Office Environment

• This chapter presents a written report about the legal office environment, specifically office procedures.
• The report was delivered to the Faculty of the College of Business Administration, Department of Office Administration, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa Manila.
• The report is in partial fulfillment of the requirements for Legal Office Procedures (OFAD 351).
• The authors are Labrador, Allysa B.; Lapriza, Rovelyn L.; and Luchavez, Shainnia S.
• The report was submitted in October 2024.

Learning Objectives

• Learn concepts of law firms in the 21st century.
• Understand roles of office tools and equipment.
• Identify key personnel involved in a law office.

Basic Concepts, Principles, and Functions of the Law Office Today

• Understanding a firm's atmosphere and individual compatibility is crucial for pioneering legal firms.
• Law firms can be general practice (covering various areas) or specialized (focusing on a specific area).
• Individuals should assess suitability to make informed career decisions within the firm.

Different Types of Law Firms

• Large Law Firms: Also known as full-service firms, these operate regionally, nationally, and globally. They have a strong reputation for handling complex legal issues, and serve diverse clients. They have extensive resources and may have hundreds or thousands of attorneys.
  • Employees often face high pressure, limited flexibility (regarding hours and attire), but have competitive pay and benefits.
  • Often, these firms invest in employee development to enhance professional credibility through programs like pro bono or public service work involving underserved populations.
• Medium-Sized Law Firms: Employ between 50 and hundreds of attorneys and typically operate across a wide range of geographic locations. Frequently follow a partnership structure and are often seen as a balance between flexibility and resources compared to large and small firms.
  • They provide a moderate starting salary and limited health benefits relative to larger firms, though sometimes larger billable hour expectations.
  • They still provide perks like bonuses and longer paid vacations to compensate.
• Small Law Firms: Typically have 2–50 attorneys. They specialize in specific areas (criminal defense, intellectual property, etc.).
  • Offer personalized service to clients.
  • Often have lower operating costs, and offer flexible working hours, and potentially holiday bonuses.
  • May offer less robust health benefits than medium or larger firms.

Tools, Equipment, and Supplies in a Law Office

• Copiers (Multifunction Printers): Essential for document management
• Postage Meters: Convenient for mailings.
• Postage Scales: To measure mail/package weights for accurate postage.
• Fax Machines: Still used in some offices due to HIPAA compliance and client preferences.
• Will Supplies: Collections of items like envelopes, covers, papers, seals.
• Exhibit Supplies: Needed for organizing court exhibits.

Law Office Team Roles, Purposes, and Tasks

• Partners: Full owners responsible for daily operations and overseeing junior personnel.
• Office Managers: Non-lawyer personnel with significant responsibilities like staff management, facilities oversight, and ensuring compliance.
• Associates: New legal professionals who are not firm owners, often handle general cases.
• Counsel, Special Counsel, Of Counsel Attorneys: Licensed professionals who provide guidance and insight as specialists or consultants.
• Law Clerks: Support staff, providing research and assistance.
• Paralegal/Legal Assistant: Assist legal professionals by conducting research, preparing legal documents, handling filings, and managing case files.
• Legal Secretaries: Clerical support staff taking care of administrative duties for the lawyers.
• IT Managers: Oversee firm technology and ensure safety and security of office systems.
• Receptionists: Greet clients, manage appointments, and handle phone calls.
• Data Entry Clerks: Manage and update firm documents/files.

Educational Requirements for Specific Jobs

• Specific educational requirements are outlined for each job (e.g., Partner – Law degree/license, Office Manager – Business Administration/Management degree).

Explore the essential elements of the legal office environment with this quiz on Chapter 1 of Legal Office Procedures. Learn about the roles of office tools, key personnel, and the dynamics of modern law firms. Ideal for students in Office Administration.