The Fourth of July is a time for celebration—but in a law practice, “FIREWORKS” often mean something very different: missed deadlines, client complaints, data breaches, and malpractice claims. The good news? Most legal “explosions” are preventable.

F — Follow Up (and Document It)

Confirm advice, client decisions, and settlement authority in writing Document all client communications—even brief phone calls

I — Implement Strong Intake Procedures

Screen for difficult clients and for conflicts Set expectations (timeline, costs, outcomes) and confirm in writing Decline representations clearly and in writing

R — Repress Missed Deadlines

Confirm and double check all deadlines as soon as possible Build in multiple internal deadlines ahead of court deadlines Do not wait until the last minute. If you are doing something the day it is due, you are already too late

E — Engagement and Disengagement are Important

Engagement letters for each new matter…