Popular Threads on Solosez

Top 5 Benefits of Using Solosez

See http://www.thepracticeblog.com/2008/06/solosez.html

What are your top 5?

Lisa Solomon, Esq.

Posted this answer at the blog but wanted to post here too (just noticed a grammatical error too, darnit, which I am correcting in this version):

Friends would make the top of my list, too...

The ability to get quick (but surprisingly detailed) answers on topics that might require a great deal of time and research (specific law from other states, or clarification on specialties like estate planning, tax or real estate to help with the "big picture" on your own case when it's not your field.)

I think it is also beneficial that non‑lawyers in the legal field like me (the law student, paralegal, administrators, legal technology professionals, etc.) are welcomed to Solosez and can share their unique perspectives as well.

The level of cameraderie, versus competitiveness, is also key to Solosez. Almost without fail, the goal among members seems to be helping grown practices, with people sharing information on setting up shop, picking the best software, finding clients that won't drive you insane, best practices, how to handle court room situations.  You really get a sense that we want our list mates to succeed. I find that to be a rare thing in the business world at large.

Of course, there's the perk of getting quick answers to things not related to law(take your pick, from help with a sick pet to how to choose the best cast iron pan) It's a surprise Solosez benefit, but one I wouldn't trade!

Elizabeth Gloger

I agree with everyone's comments so far, but would add referrals and collaboration to the list.

Shell Bleiweiss

1. Ability to brainstorm and get input from experienced lawyers on questionsof law. Absolute #1 benefit to me. I love it.

2. Camaraderie ‑‑ lawyers seem delighted to help the other members of this"firm". I don't feel like I am pulling teeth to get some input from my busy colleagues.

3. The best evidence I have ever seen to combat a negative view of lawyers that they are competitive a‑holes rather than a collaborative, resourceful, professional community committed to serve the clients that need them. This is definitely a group of respectful professionals. And they truly serve their clients. I believe it is a good example of a group that really values the duties lawyers have to their clients.

4. Networking

5. Funny stories, personal support, best water cooler I have ever had the pleasure of talking around!

Kathleen Aguilar

My top one is that since I am in an office by myself, I can read the entries and feel part of an office of attorneys, as well as bounce my own ideas of very smart and capable people out there. I love it.

Micah G. Guilfoil, Attorney

Seeing people respond to threads often identifies them as someone with whom you could bounce around ideas, thoughts, and strategies.  I have done that with Eric Welter, Rob Reid, Michele Aiken, Neal Kennedy, and Jeff Rambin.  And in some cases, actually picked up the phone and got some great advice.  As a solo, it's great to be able to have others to talk "law" with.

Much appreciated all of you.
Sincerely,

Mary Ann

Call me crazy (most do) but I love the "water cooler"!  Especially the music topics...movies too, but mostly music.  Get great tips and information for my practice, but really dig the tunes talk!  Meeting Bruce Dorner personally was also a thrill!!!  Plus, he gave me a Solosez10‑yr. pin even though I told him I'd probably only been on about 5years or less!  Out of respect for those who have truly earned the10‑yr. pin, I don't wear mine, but it's clearly visible in my office via a small cork board on my rear credenza where I tack timely and notable items that I don't want to forget.

 William L. Bands

5.  Free upgrades to first class on American Airlines when I show them my Solosez pin;

4.  If you mumble "solosez" just right, it's fun to watch the look on people's faces when you tell them solosex is the one of the best things that ever happened to you;

3. Posting questions for which I have no answer to 3000 lawyers helps keep my ego in check;

2.   Where else could I get to play an April Fools' joke on 3000people at one time?  and the number one reason I love Solosez . . .

1.  Unlimited incoming emails.

Andy Simpson

I wholeheartedly agree with all of the benefits listed so far. Without reservation ‑ except, the tech stuff is frequently SO over my head that I usually just delete it. But to me, an amazing benefit of SOLOSEZ is that we make up a caring community. So many people showed such concern for me during a rough patch in April, and there is always a showing of care and support in all sorts of situations. I have worked with real‑life associates/colleagues who cared much less about me or others than you folks whom I have never met.

Neil Rowe

For me, it's the safety net aspect.  As an impoverished rookie who just passed the bar, I often feel overwhelmed and filled with self doubt.  This is made infinitely more bearable knowing that there are so many experienced, caring attorneys who are able and willing to help me‑‑for free :)  I guess you guys give me the confidence to fight on...Come on; group hug.

Jake Eisenstein

It's actually a fascinating phenomenon you bring up, Neil.  I've been very active with various online communities for over 14 years now (I'm a geek, I got in early, what can I say...)  They are groups of people brought together by various interests (music, life issues, other common interest) and the one thing I have observed in all these places almost without fail is what you describe below.  In one of the online groups I am part of, in support of a musician, amazing personal bonds have been forged between people which eventually transcended the online world into real life, and I count some of the friends I made there as some of my closest (we travel together, attend weddings, etc., though we did not know each other in person previously).  I feel like I know others I have never met just as closely as any friend I've had "in real life."The world has certainly been made smaller by the advent of the internet, and user groups, and Facebook and such...but I've found it to be so beneficial in my life.  Sometimes, like Neil said below...the people you meet online because of a common interest end up being more caring and friendly than the people you deal with day to day.  I suppose with a caveat to try avoid the stalkers and crazies, it's not abad reason to continue to seek out groups like this!

Elizabeth Gloger

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