Re: Estate Planning Practice

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In my opinion, you are in a great position. Take advantage
of it, and fast. Voids fill quickly. My advice is to become
an expert at estate planning. Then, more importantly, tell
everyone that you're an expert. Become active in the Chamber
of Commerce, send out notices, try to write an estate
planning column or columns in the local paper (I've found
this easier than it seems - just call the editor and ask),
run some seminars, join the local bar estate planning groups
and become active there. Get to know as many referral
sources as possible, especially accountants, insurance
agents, and real estate brokers (real estate goes hand in
hand with estate planning so you might want to include this
as part of your practice). These are all free/cheap means of
exposure. Talk about estate planning over and over and over
again to anyone willing to listen. Give your clients utmost
respect and attention, and do a good job. Do NOT
undercharge. Also, very important, be as visible as
possible, and set your office up in the heart of the
business district.

It will take a while, and you may lose money at first, but
the work will come, especially if your town already has a
retiring "guru".

A side thought: Have you thought of contacting the retiring
lawyer about taking over his/her practice? Just a thought.

Best of luck, I'll be rooting for you.

On 9/29/06, Jennifer wrote:
> Hello solos,
>
> I live in a mdeium sized town. I have a general
> practice. The local estate planning guru is retiring.
> I'm thinking of jumping into this practice area. Can
> anybody give me guidance on how to break into this
> practice area? I appreciate any thoughts.