What to Consider When Choosing an Office Space for a Lawyer

The work from home revolution has forced many companies to adopt virtual offices. However, some professionals, like lawyers, still benefit from having at least a small physical office to work from, even if the pandemic has forced them to consider scaling down.

Given the life-changing nature of the past two years, does the location of a law firm matter in today’s context? Convenience and first impressions rank highly when choosing an office location. Here are 5 factors to consider when choosing your new office space.

Accessibility to Target Audience

So, where should you open your law office location? The location of a law firm is dependent on its targeted clientele. In general, city centers or business districts tend to be the most viable, as they are typically close to courthouses and major transport networks. Parking availability near an office is also important, so clients don’t have to drive around searching for a place to park.

Location Reputation

Another interesting question is not so much about where should a law firm open its office, but more about how the location reflects the firm’s culture and image. First impressions count. When clients enter your office, the impression of your actual office should reflect the high-quality service you provide.

Renting Options

When launching a new law firm, having a law office space for rent to match makes a world of difference when establishing your firm. By having a dedicated business address to work from and inviting clients to visit, you set yourself up as a professional, permanent law partner to assist with all your clients’ needs. Long gone are the days of Zoom calls and coffee shop meetings, it’s time for a more professional aesthetic.

If you just need an office to get out of the house every now and then, and for occasional meetings, you don’t have to commit to a full-month lease. If it’s too expensive to rent a private space in a building that has a large concentration of law firms, a dedicated desk may be a suitable option, as it offers respite from home and a break from monotony during alternate working days. You can even opt for an office for a day, getting a dedicated room for your busy day.

Equipment

Every industry has specific office needs. Internet connectivity and the discretion to work on confidential material are paramount for law firms. While a lawyer home office provides privacy, it doesn’t always have the luxury of space and may not even be in a convenient location.

If your firm has a flexible work from home approach, your satellite office will still require fast internet connectivity and possibly space to accommodate several employees at the same time, as well as their necessary computer equipment.

While other industries have adopted a cloud-based approach, law firms still likely need a safe location to store and review client case files. Convenient and secure locations with enough room for equipment and personnel to scale are hugely beneficial.

Proximity to the Courthouse

The office location of a law firm should anticipate the needs of the attorneys and their clients. Sometimes the office location requires proximity to a courthouse. If so, factors like traffic and nearby public transport access should be considered. At all times, an office should be comfortable and convenient to work at, meeting the law firm's professional requirements.

Proximity to Your Competitors

Launching a new law firm? Think twice before setting up a shop directly next to competitors.

When looking for a lawyer office space for rent, you’re better off going a bit further from competitors. Why? Because of Google Maps, believe it or not. If you move into a suite in a building with many established firms, you may get filtered out of Google Maps at the start. 

Additionally, when Google Maps ranks competing offices, Google will automatically choose those that have been there longer, and you will rank very low. If you choose to rent near competitors, you will need a stellar SEO strategy. 

Conclusion

Whether you’re relocating or starting your own firm, the location of your future office is critical to future success. At 620 N LaSalle, we have a variety of co-working and private offices to rent. In addition, there’s a stylish tenant lounge, fully kitted conference rooms, and an incredible rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Chicago. Close to the CTA, a local bus stop, and with secure on-site parking, you’ll be hard-pressed to find secure convenience at such competitive rates. Contact us today to rent an office space that suits all your needs!