Why attorneys should consider a virtual office

There are a number of services available today that can greatly ease the financial and operational burdens on these professionals.

Shifts toward a more modern legal market have been slow, but it is happening. According to a recent study conducted by commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield, which was detailed in the Daily Report, a Georgia legal news outlet, law offices continue to shrink square footage to offset costs, but are still holding onto about 823 square feet per attorney. On average, the office lease accounts for 5 to 7 percent of the firm's total gross income for the year.

While the legal industry is not the only sector that relies on a traditional corporate setting, law firms take up about two to three times the square footage per employee at a bank, insurance agency or technology company, according to the Daily Report's coverage.

Even independent attorneys find themselves in the position of overworking themselves to make the cost of the space worthwhile. However, thanks to executive suite services, these long-term burdens can be a thing of the past, Above the Law explained. 

"A flexible work force is the new 21st century buzzword — but it's also a trend that benefits many lawyers just starting out by allowing them to grow without the risk or cost of permanent hires," Above the Law contributor Carolyn Elefant writes.

Virtual office services include a part-time receptionist to respond to client calls, a commercial address to represent the law firm as well as notary services. Instead of paying to renew your notary license, On Point Executive Center has a notary public on site at all times.