The hard drive on my laptop recently gave up the ghost. My entire life and business are stored on my laptop so it could have been disastrous. Thankfully, I had a back up plan in place and did not lose any information. It did cause me to think carefully about the inevitable “interruptions” in running a business and what plans I have in place to deal with them.
Most law firms have a back up plan in place for technology interruptions, but what about personnel or scheduling interruptions? What is your back up plan during the unexpected illness of a staff member or when that quick, simple case suddenly becomes a big case and is headed straight for trial? Do you have a plan?
Many law firms (especially those working in litigation) have come to expect the unexpected and have established working relationships with virtual paralegals as part of a back up plan. A virtual or freelance paralegal can help manage the uneven work flow of litigation, working only as needed.
I have worked for firms during staff illnesses, maternity leaves and most commonly the crunch before trial. The most unusual “interruption” I have ever experienced was a hostile firm split. One partner walked in on a Monday morning, announced to the other partner that he was leaving and taking his people with him. Half the firm walked out the door that day. I had already been helping this firm during various litigation projects so I was able to step in and assist immediately.
Back up plans work best when they have been thought out and established during the “normal” times. This eliminates the panic when a crisis arises. You will save yourself a lot of time, stress and money if you establish a good working relationship with a virtual or freelance paralegal now. Your back up plan is only one phone call or email away. I work with attorneys throughout the Atlanta area as a virtual or freelance paralegal. Contact me to help manage your work flow and have your practice run more smoothly. Don’t wait until your hair is on fire to buy a fire extinguisher.
Photo by _gee_
Misty L. Sheffield is a freelance paralegal helping solos and small law firms in civil litigation. She has been assisting attorneys for over 12 years. 
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