The Business Side Of Law: Attorney Joy Owenby of Owenby Law, P A On 5 Things You Need To Create Or Lead A Successful Law Firm

An Interview With Eric Pines

Build a Strong Support Network: Networking and building relationships within the legal community and beyond are crucial for a thriving law practice. Connecting with other attorneys, industry professionals, and community organizations not only expands your referral network but also provides valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative partnerships. I recall a time when a referral from a fellow attorney led to a significant case that significantly boosted my practice’s growth, underscoring the importance of a strong support network.

Law school primarily prepares lawyers for the practice of law. But leading or starting a law firm requires so much more than that. It requires the entrepreneurial skills that any CEO would need to run a business; How to manage personnel, how to hire and fire, how to generate leads, how to advertise, how to manage finances, etc. On the business side of law, what does an attorney need to know to create a successful and thriving law practice? To address these questions, we are talking to successful law firm principals who can share stories and insights from their experience about the “5 Things You Need To Create Or Lead A Successful Law Firm”. As a part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Joy Owenby with Owenby Law, P.A.

Attorney Joy N. Owenby is a skilled and compassionate Jacksonville, Florida attorney who has dedicated her professional career to helping others. As a Senior Attorney at Owenby Law, P.A., Joy drives our mission to provide individuals and families facing unfamiliar legal proceedings with honest, reliable, and passionate advocacy, and has earned herself and her firm numerous honors and accolades along the way. While her breadth of experience is varied, her work is shaped by personalized service and her ability to place herself in the clients’ shoes in order to fully understand their feelings and goals.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. I’m a huge fan of mentorship throughout one’s career. None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Who has been your biggest mentor? What was the most valuable lesson you learned from them?

My father was my biggest mentor. That is a tough question, as he taught me so many valuable lessons including, but not limited to, patience, diligence, honesty, trustworthiness and the value of hard work. The most valuable lesson would be to never give up and work diligently to achieve your goals.

From completing your degree to opening a practice and becoming a business owner, your path was most likely challenging. Can you share a story about one of your greatest struggles? Can you share what you did to overcome it?

One of the greatest struggles I faced in my journey from completing my degree to opening my family law practice was finding a balance between work and personal life. As a new business owner, I was eager to establish my firm and provide exceptional service to my clients, often working long hours and sacrificing personal time.

This imbalance began to take a toll on my health and well-being, affecting both my professional performance and personal relationships. I realized that to be truly effective as an attorney and a business owner, I needed to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

To overcome this struggle, I implemented several strategies. First, I established clear boundaries between work hours and personal time. I designated specific hours for client meetings, case preparation, and administrative tasks, allowing me to be more efficient during working hours and avoid burnout.

I also learned to delegate tasks effectively and trust my team to handle responsibilities, which helped alleviate some of the workload pressure. This allowed me to focus on high-priority tasks that required my expertise while empowering my team members to contribute meaningfully to the firm’s success.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share a story about how that was relevant in your own life?

One of my favorite life lesson quotes is “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity” by Albert Einstein. This quote has been incredibly relevant in my life, especially in my journey as a family law attorney. There was a time in my career when I faced a particularly challenging case involving a highly contested divorce with complex child custody issues. The situation seemed daunting, with emotions running high and the legal intricacies posing significant hurdles.

Instead of being overwhelmed by the difficulty of the case, I remembered Einstein’s quote and approached the situation with a mindset of seeking opportunities within the challenges. I saw the opportunity to advocate fiercely for my client’s rights and best interests, to find creative solutions to complex legal issues, and to navigate the emotional complexities with empathy and understanding.

By embracing the difficulties as opportunities for growth and positive outcomes, I was able to handle the case effectively and achieve a favorable resolution for my client. This experience reinforced the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, seeking opportunities for learning and improvement in every situation, and turning challenges into steppingstones for success.

This is not easy work. What is your primary motivation and drive behind the work that you do?

My primary motivation and drive behind the work that I do stems from a deep commitment to advocacy and justice, particularly for those who are most vulnerable. Prior to founding my firm, I served as legal counsel for the state of Florida’s Guardian Ad Litem Program, where I gained invaluable experience in family law, dependency, and criminal law. My work in this capacity was heavily focused on children, ensuring they had a voice in court during matters of abuse, neglect, abandonment, family law, and criminal law.

Seeing firsthand the impact of my advocacy on the lives of these children ignited a passion within me to extend my efforts beyond just helping children to helping families, hence “putting families first” became the driving force for Owenby Law, P.A. Just as parents and adults have advocates to protect their rights and interests, I was determined to provide the same level of dedicated representation to all my clients, especially those who cannot advocate for themselves. This drive to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, coupled with my desire to ensure justice and fairness, is what fuels my dedication to my work every day.

What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?

As a Master in the Florida Family Law American Inn of Court, I have the privilege of working with and mentoring fellow attorneys, members of the judiciary, and law students in the area of family law, professionalism, civility, and ethics. In 2024, the Florida Family Law American Inn of Court earned Platinum distinction in our Achieving Excellence program. This is a great honor to our Inn after much hard work from the Inn members. The annual Inns of Distinction Gala recognizes high performing American Inns of Court, like ours, from across the nation that have achieved excellence in Inn management and programming. Inn leaders then gather at the Supreme Court of the United States to celebrate their accomplishments in advancing professionalism in the legal community through exemplary Inn programming and meaningful member engagement.

Fantastic. Let’s now shift to discussing the business of law. Can you tell us a bit about the nature of your practice and what you focus on?

Owenby Law, P.A. practices in the areas of marital and family law, wills, trusts and estate planning, guardianship, dependency law, criminal law and probate.

You are a successful attorney. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? What unique qualities do you have that others may not? Can you please share a story or example for each?

1. Empathy: One of the most crucial traits in family law is empathy. Understanding and connecting with clients on an emotional level allows me to better understand their needs, fears, and goals. Empathy helps me navigate sensitive situations with compassion and offer personalized solutions. For instance, I once worked with a client going through a highly contentious child custody battle. By listening empathetically and addressing their concerns with understanding, I helped ease their anxieties and develop a legal strategy that prioritized the well-being of their children.
2. Resilience: Family law often presents challenges and setbacks, requiring resilience to persevere and adapt. Maintaining resilience allows me to stay focused, motivated, and determined even in the face of adversity. For example, I encountered a case where negotiations stalled repeatedly, leading to frustration and delays. Through resilience, I remained persistent, explored alternative approaches, and eventually reached a favorable result for my client.
3. Strategic Thinking: Strategic thinking is essential in family law to anticipate potential outcomes, craft effective legal strategies, and achieve favorable results for clients. This involves analyzing complex situations, weighing various options, and making well-informed decisions. In one case, I strategically negotiated a prenuptial agreement that protected my client’s assets and interests while fostering open communication and trust between the parties.

Do you think where you went to school has any bearing on your success? How important is it for a lawyer to go to a top-tier school?

Attending a top-tier law school may open doors to prestigious internships, clerkships, or job opportunities, which can enhance your experience and skills. However, success ultimately depends on your ability to apply legal knowledge effectively, communicate with clients, and navigate complex family law cases with integrity and professionalism. While attending a top-tier law school can offer advantages, it is not a guarantee of success in family law. Success is determined by your dedication, skills, work ethic, and commitment to providing excellent legal representation and support to your clients.

Managing being a law practitioner and a business owner is a constant balancing act. How do you manage both roles?

Balancing the roles of a law practitioner and business owner requires effective time management, meticulous task prioritization, and dedicated attention to legal cases and business operations. Delegating tasks to capable staff members, leveraging technology for streamlined processes, staying updated through continuous learning and networking, and maintaining a strong support network are key strategies in managing both roles successfully. The ultimate goal is to find a delicate equilibrium between legal practice and business management to ensure optimal client service and overall business success.

Can you help articulate the entrepreneurial skills a lawyer needs to run and lead a successful law firm?

Running and leading a successful law firm as a family law attorney requires a blend of entrepreneurial skills that go beyond legal expertise. First and foremost, strong leadership is essential. A lawyer must inspire and motivate their team, creating a collaborative environment where everyone is working towards the same goals. Effective communication is key to ensuring that all team members are aligned and that clients feel heard and supported throughout their legal journey.

Another important skill is strategic planning. A successful law firm needs a clear vision and a well-defined business plan. This includes setting short-term and long-term goals, identifying target markets, and continuously assessing the competitive landscape. An entrepreneurial lawyer must be adept at making strategic decisions that will drive growth and sustain the firm’s success.

Financial acumen is also vital. Managing a law firm involves budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis. A lawyer must understand the firm’s financial health, manage cash flow, and make informed decisions about investments and expenditures. This ensures that the firm remains profitable and can weather any financial challenges.

Marketing and business development skills are equally important. Building a firm’s reputation and attracting clients require a proactive approach to marketing. This involves networking, creating a strong online presence, and leveraging various marketing channels to reach potential clients. A successful lawyer knows how to market their services effectively and build lasting relationships with clients.

Innovation and adaptability are crucial entrepreneurial traits. The legal industry is constantly evolving, and a successful lawyer must stay ahead of trends and embrace new technologies. This could mean adopting new legal software, exploring alternative dispute resolution methods, or offering virtual consultations to meet clients’ needs.

As a business owner you spend most of your time working IN your practice, seeing clients. When and how do you shift to working ON your practice? (Marketing, upgrading systems, growing your practice, etc.) How much time do you spend on the business elements?

Balancing time between working in my practice and working on my practice is crucial for long-term success. Typically, I allocate dedicated blocks of time each week specifically for working on my practice. This includes tasks such as marketing strategies, upgrading systems, planning for business growth, and other business-related elements.

To ensure I have sufficient time for these tasks, I usually schedule these sessions during quieter periods or outside of peak client consultation hours. For example, I might dedicate a few hours every Friday afternoon to review marketing campaigns, update my website, or analyze financial reports. Additionally, I set aside time at the beginning or end of each day to respond to emails, handle administrative tasks, or engage in networking activities that contribute to the growth of my practice.

In terms of the amount of time spent on business elements versus client work, it varies depending on the demands of the practice. On average, I aim to devote around 20–30% of my workweek to working on my practice. However, during periods of significant growth initiatives or system upgrades, this percentage may increase temporarily to ensure that the necessary attention and resources are allocated to propel the practice forward.

Can you share some specific, non intuitive insights from our personal experience about how a leader of a law firm should:

• Manage personnel: One key insight I’ve learned about managing personnel in a law firm is the importance of fostering a positive work culture. It’s crucial to create a supportive environment where team members feel valued, respected, and motivated. Regular communication, feedback sessions, and recognition of achievements go a long way in boosting morale and enhancing productivity. Additionally, delegating responsibilities based on each individual’s strengths and skills helps in optimizing workflow and promoting a cohesive team dynamic.
• Hire and fire: When it comes to hiring and firing decisions, it’s essential to prioritize cultural fit and shared values. Beyond just assessing qualifications and experience, I’ve found that evaluating a candidate’s alignment with the firm’s mission, vision, and work ethics is paramount. Similarly, when considering termination, it’s crucial to approach it with empathy and fairness, ensuring that due process is followed, and that the decision is aligned with the firm’s policies and standards.
• Generate leads: An insightful strategy for generating leads in the legal field is to focus on building relationships and establishing trust with potential clients. Rather than solely relying on traditional advertising methods, such as paid ads or cold outreach, investing time in networking, community engagement, and providing valuable content can yield more sustainable leads. Building a reputation as a trusted advisor and expert in family law through seminars, webinars, and educational resources can attract clients who are genuinely interested in your services.
• Advertise: We always prioritize targeted and personalized approaches over generic marketing tactics. Tailoring advertising campaigns to specific demographics, such as individuals going through divorce or child custody disputes, allows for more effective communication and resonates better with the target audience. Utilizing digital marketing strategies, such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, and social media advertising, can also enhance visibility and reach among potential clients.
• Manage finances: A crucial insight in managing finances for a law firm is the significance of budgeting and forecasting. I typically create a detailed budget that accounts for operational expenses, marketing costs, personnel salaries, and contingency funds helps in maintaining financial stability and planning for growth. Regularly reviewing financial statements, analyzing cash flow patterns, and seeking opportunities for cost optimization are essential practices for sound financial management in a law firm.

What are your “5 Things An Attorney Needs To Know In Order To Create A Successful And Thriving Law Practice”?

1. Understand Your Niche: One of the first things an attorney needs to know is their niche area of law. Focusing in a specific field, such as family law, allows you to expand your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a particular area of practice, build a reputation, and attract clients seeking assistance in this area of practice. For instance, early in my career, I realized that I had a passion for advocating for families in divorce and child custody cases. By honing my skills and knowledge in this niche, I was able to establish myself as a go-to attorney in family law, attracting clients who valued my experience.
2. Prioritize Client Communication: Effective communication with clients is paramount to a successful law practice. Clients want to feel heard, informed, and supported throughout their legal journey. I make it a priority to maintain open lines of communication, promptly respond to inquiries, and provide regular updates on case progress. One memorable example was a client who appreciated my proactive communication so much that they referred several friends and family members to my practice, highlighting the power of positive client experiences.
3. Embrace Technology: In today’s digital age, leveraging technology is essential for efficiency and productivity in a law practice. Implementing case management software, digital document management systems, and online client portals streamlines processes, enhances organization, and improves client accessibility. For instance, adopting a cloud-based case management platform revolutionized how I manage cases, allowing for seamless collaboration with clients and team members, even remotely.
4. Build a Strong Support Network: Networking and building relationships within the legal community and beyond are crucial for a thriving law practice. Connecting with other attorneys, industry professionals, and community organizations not only expands your referral network but also provides valuable insights, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative partnerships. I recall a time when a referral from a fellow attorney led to a significant case that significantly boosted my practice’s growth, underscoring the importance of a strong support network.
5. Focus on Continuous Learning and Adaptability: The legal landscape is constantly evolving, requiring attorneys to stay updated on changes in laws, regulations, and industry trends. Committing to continuous learning through seminars, workshops, and professional development courses ensures that you remain knowledgeable and adaptable. One example is when a legislative change impacted family law proceedings. By promptly educating myself and my team as well as adjusting my strategies, I was able to navigate the change seamlessly, maintaining optimal outcomes for my clients.

You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)

I would focus on promoting family mediation and conflict resolution. Family disputes, particularly those involving divorce, child custody, and other related issues, can be emotionally draining, financially costly, and detrimental to everyone involved, especially children.

The movement would aim to encourage individuals going through family conflicts to consider mediation as a first step before resorting to lengthy and adversarial legal battles. At mediation, you can create creative solutions to your client’s concerns and difficulties that the trial court would not typically award. Studies have also shown that when parties resolve their dispute through settlement, they are more likely to abide by their agreement which reduces future contempt and enforcement legal fees. Lengthy adversarial legal battles also contribute to further deterioration of the parties’ relationship which makes it increasingly difficult to work together in the future and if children are involved almost impossible to co-parent effectively. On the other hand, mediation empowers families to work collaboratively, find mutually beneficial solutions, and preserve relationships, all while reducing stress, time, and expenses associated with litigation. The goal of this movement would be to transform the way society approaches family conflicts, shifting from a typical combative and adversarial mindset to one rooted in working together with empathy, collaboration, and cooperative solutions. By promoting a less stressful and more peaceful resolution to family law matters, we can foster stronger family bonds, which hopefully can create a more harmonious and supportive environment for families to work well together for the best interests of their children.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

They can follow my work through my website: https://www.owenbylaw.com/ and on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/owenby-law-llc/ and here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyowenby/

This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent with this. We wish you continued success and good health!

About the Interviewer: Eric L. Pines is a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer, mediator, and attorney business coach. He represents federal employees and acts as in-house counsel for over fifty thousand federal employees through his work as a federal employee labor union representative. A formal federal employee himself, Mr. Pines began his federal employment law career as in-house counsel for AFGE Local 1923 which is in Social Security Administration’s headquarters and is the largest federal union local in the world. He presently serves as AFGE 1923’s Chief Counsel as well as in-house counsel for all FEMA bargaining unit employees and numerous Department of Defense and Veteran Affairs unions.

While he and his firm specialize in representing federal employees from all federal agencies and in reference to virtually all federal employee matters, his firm has placed special attention on representing Veteran Affairs doctors and nurses hired under the authority of Title. He and his firm have a particular passion in representing disabled federal employees with their requests for medical and religious reasonable accommodations when those accommodations are warranted under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (ADA). He also represents them with their requests for Federal Employee Disability Retirement (OPM) when an accommodation would not be possible.

Mr. Pines has also served as a mediator for numerous federal agencies including serving a year as the Library of Congress’ in-house EEO Mediator. He has also served as an expert witness in federal court for federal employee matters. He has also worked as an EEO technical writer drafting hundreds of Final Agency Decisions for the federal sector.

Mr. Pines’ firm is headquartered in Houston, Texas and has offices in Baltimore, Maryland and Atlanta, Georgia. His first passion is his wife and five children. He plays classical and rock guitar and enjoys playing ice hockey, running, and biking. Please visit his websites at www.pinesfederal.com and www.toughinjurylawyers.com. He can also be reached at eric@pinesfederal.com.