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How to start a law firm in the UK

Ready to start a
law firm?

For any firm starting out, you need to think like both a lawyer and a business owner. It may feel daunting at first, but with the right planning and tools, you’ll be well-positioned for success.

To support you on your journey, we’ve created a free guide backed by insights from industry experts and successful start-up firms across England and Wales.

download The entire guide

Explore your practice area

Introduction
CHAPTER 1
Why more lawyers than ever are leaving traditional firms to build something of their own.
Why Start Your Own Firm
CHAPTER 2
Greater autonomy, financial opportunity, and a different way to practise law.
Business Planning & Structure
CHAPTER 3
Sole practitioner, limited company, or LLP, choosing the right structure from the start.
Choose Your Practice Area
CHAPTER 4
How to pick the right area of law for your skills, your market, and your goals.
SRA Authorisation
CHAPTER 5
What the application involves, what the SRA is assessing, and how to avoid common delays.
Goals & Strategy
CHAPTER 6
Setting meaningful KPIs and choosing a location that works for your firm model.
Costs of Starting a Law Firm
CHAPTER 7
One-off startup costs, ongoing overheads, working capital, and realistic scenario planning.
Marketing & Getting Clients
CHAPTER 8
Building your first-year marketing plan, from SEO and GEO to referrals and content.
Billing Model
CHAPTER 9
Time-based billing, fixed fees, and retainers — and how to choose the right mix.
Your First 90 Days
CHAPTER 10
What to expect month by month, and the common early mistakes to avoid.

See how Smokeball supports new firms

Whether you’re pre-authorisation or already open, Smokeball is built for the way small UK firms work. Automatic time tracking, document automation, billing, and firm insights - all in one platform.

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Smokeball legal practice management software
Legal Software
Areas of Law
Resources
Support
About Us
© 2022 Smokeball Pty Ltd. ABN 37 133 794 117. All Rights Reserved.
Terms of Service | Website Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Sitemap | Contact us
Smokeball Legal Practice Management Software Youtube Link Logo
Smokeball legal practice management software
Legal Software
Areas of Law
Resources
Support
About Us
© 2022 Smokeball Pty Ltd. ABN 37 133 794 117. All Rights Reserved.
Terms of Service | Website Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Sitemap | Contact us
Smokeball Legal Practice Management Software Youtube Link Logo