Traditional legal services models operate from the perspective of the law firm instead of the client. This leaves many companies dissatisfied with their overall legal representation. FSB FisherBroyles was formed after detailed discussions with clients about their needs and desires. At FSB -- with the client’s perspective in mind -- sound business principles and client feedback determine how legal services are delivered. Here are the top five things clients dislike about traditional legal services and how FSB has answered these concerns:

1. Cost

The cost of outside counsel is often the greatest frustration to companies. Not only are rates expensive, it’s difficult to track hours and account for services rendered. Companies want a legal service provider that operates efficiently and gets rid of excessive and unnecessary overhead that inflates billable rates. Companies also want a legal service provider that will offer flexibility and creativity in its billing structures. The hourly billing structure is often not the best way to bill clients. FSB offers flexible plans that eliminate costly overhead so that we can pass on savings to our clients.

2. Lack of Responsiveness

Companies are concerned about the lack of communication and responsiveness from outside law firms. Because of a gluttony of work, outside law firms cannot be proactive about responding to client needs. Clients have to get in line to get the attention of a lawyer who is driven by billing quotas to over-promise. This often leads to under-delivery. FSB offers committed hours to provide our clients with exclusive attention and quick response.

3. Not a Part of the Team

Many companies feel under-served by outside counsel. Most legal firms do not have the structure, focus, or dedication to be a true partner in their client’s business. Many times an in-house lawyer or the CFO has to expend valuable time to serve as a conduit between the outside lawyer and the business team, creating inefficient and ineffective legal representation. Clients want lawyers to be a part of the team, but the traditional legal models are an obstacle to team-building. FSB offers client partnering for free – we get to know your business and work as an extension of your organization.

4. Lack of Business Knowledge

With increased turnover, expanding client loads, and the antiquated law firm structure, lawyers are unable to get to know their client’s business. Clients spend valuable time and energy constantly educating existing and new legal counsel. Many attorneys “over-lawyer” deals to justify their excessive billable rate when a certain level of business acumen is what is needed to facilitate the transaction. FSB understands that lawyers should be facilitators, not roadblocks. We provide free transition to learn about your company and then work to assist, not frustrate, your projects.

5. The Legal Black Box

For some companies, employing outside counsel is like placing your legal needs in an impenetrable black box. There is little or no control over what resources are being applied or how. There is little accountability as performance measurements are nonexistent. Legal invoices may as well be written in a foreign language – they are often incomprehensible. At FSB, we offer accountability and measurability. Working closely with our clients, there is never a mystery concerning the value we provide or the cost savings you will enjoy.

FSB FisherBroyles provides a new perspective on legal services – we put the CLIENT first.