Volume 20, Number 5 July/August 2003
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor:
I read David Leffler's "Being Solo" column in the April/May 2003
issue of GPSolo and very much appreciated the shot in the arm
that it gave me and no doubt countless other solos. As solos, we
face extra challenges beyond the already demanding task of
practicing law. Further, due to the lack of mentor, peer, and
subordinate feedback, it is very easy for us to get discouraged
during difficult times and discount the remarkable contributions
we make to so many clients' lives.
Like many solos, I worked for law firms in various capacities
until I had the courage to seek the autonomy, independence, and
freedom that solo practice offers. I am delighted to be a solo
and would never go back; however, I constantly struggle with the
hardship and isolation of solo practice, and I have one
suggestion that I very much want to share with you and my other
fellow solo warriors.
My key is an attorney network. I have taken much time and effort
to establish a network of attorneys with whom I can discuss and
often work on cases. I make great efforts to get to know all
lawyers I encounter and nurture professional relationships with
them. As a criminal defense attorney, I find the members of the
local criminal defense bar extremely welcoming, cooperative, and
eager to offer assistance. As a relatively young attorney (five
years), I still benefit from mentorship on my hardest cases-and
cherish the opportunity to learn from more senior attorneys. I
further enjoy discussing and working on cases with other
attorneys simply to get another opinion. Most important, I am
always keen to give back to the legal community and pass along
the good favors. It is a pleasure to assist other lawyers in need
of advice or assistance.
My attorney network allows me to maintain the independence of a
solo practitioner while at the same time enjoying a highly
fulfilling connection with other attorneys-with whom I share the
best aspects of camaraderie, support, and professional guidance
that big firm attorneys find in partners and associates.
I recommend that all solo attorneys make significant efforts to
foster such professional relationships and networks. The rewards
to my practice in doing so have been priceless.
Sincerely,
Anthony S. Lowenstein
Burlingame, California
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