The law firms were named after their founding partners.There is more room for creativity as emerging law firms enter the industry, but some firms still follow that strategy.Some firms are named for specific areas of law.Some firms use words to grab the attention of potential clients.It's important to choose a name that makes sense to the clients of your law firm.
Step 1: Family names can be used.
If you have a law firm with a family member, you may want to double the name.For example, Morgan and Morgan would make a good name for a law firm with parents and children or two siblings, or even a husband and wife practicing together.
Step 2: You can use partner surnames.
If you are looking at your law firm with a few partners, use everyone's last name to acknowledge them.The firm was founded by 4 partners.
Step 3: There are more interesting surnames to choose from.
Smith or Jones might not stand out to your clients if you have some partners with plain names.Sugarman and Hoopendahl are some of the more memorable names.For the first name in a series of partner names, these might be a better choice.
Step 4: Take the order of multiple names into account.
If you use partner names for the firm, each attorney would like their name listed first.The partners will have to agree on who is first because only one name can go first.People will use the first two names to describe your firm if you have more than one name in it.The first two names need to be distinctive and easy to remember because they will be the most used.
Step 5: Keep the firm's name short.
Limit the number of names that you include.This will help people remember you.It will be easier to include shorter names on business cards and email addresses.
Step 6: Don't leave out surnames that are difficult to pronounce or spell.
A name like Oleskewicz might not be the best choice for a law firm.Your clients might not know how to say this name correctly.
Step 7: You should check your law firm's initials.
If you use a few partner names or a combination of words, make sure to check the initials.It's possible that you don't like the abbreviation for something like Edgemont.
Step 8: Discuss any names with your partners.
It is possible that you will have to negotiate with your law partners about the name of your firm.If you include your partners in the name choosing process, you will be able to come to a decision about a name that everyone is happy with.
Step 9: Don't use nonlawyers as partners.
Lawyers are not allowed to form a law firm with non-lawyers acting as partners.As long as the professional staff does not own any interest in the firm, a law firm can hire lawyers.
Step 10: Pick a name that doesn't mean a connection with a public agency.
The names of law firms are not allowed to be false or misleading.It is not a good idea for your firm's name to imply that you have a connection with a government agency.Don't imply a connection with a public or charitable legal services organization.A law firm located in Denver can't be called "Denver Legal Clinic" because it implies that the firm is a public legal aid agency.
Step 11: Do not use the name of a lawyer who is in public office.
The name of a lawyer who holds a public office may not be used in a law firm name if the lawyer is not actively practicing with the firm.The law firm name "Obama & ASSOCIATES" would be considered false and misleading during the years of 2008 and 2016 because President Obama did not practice at the firm during his presidency.
Step 12: Do not make a false claim.
Lawyers are not allowed to state or imply that they practice in a partnership.Two lawyers, Clarence Smith and Stephanie Jones, may share office space, but they may not have formed a law firm together.They cannot use the name Smith and Jones because it suggests that they are practicing law in the same firm.
Step 13: The names of retired or deceased law firm members should be included.
The names of retired or deceased partners are not false.Make sure that they practiced in the law firm.
Step 14: Business name restrictions can be checked in your state.
If your state has any restrictions on business names, make sure to register your law firm's name.In Texas, no business can register the same name as another business.
Step 15: Your law firm name should include your specialty.
Picking a name that reflects your area of legal expertise is a good idea.The Davis Family Law Group is indicative of your firm's focus on family law.
Step 16: When choosing a name for your law firm, think about branding.
A long name can be shortened in marketing and advertising materials.Legacy Tax & Trust could simply be called Legacy by its clients and partners.
Step 17: Think about trademarking your firm's name.
It is possible to trademark the firm name and brand if the branding is very distinctive.The United States Patent and Trademark Office can help you trademark your business name.There is a way to register a trademark.If you download the form, fill it out.The form requires you to give information about your business.The fee to trademark a business name is between $275 and $325.
Step 18: Receive feedback from reliable sources.
If you want feedback on your list of possible names, ask a few friends or business associates.They should be given at least a few names.Ask for honest opinions and reasons why they don't like certain names.
Step 19: Be aware of negative associations.
The population of your community will use your service.If there are any negative associations with your firm's name, get feedback from a few members of the community.
Step 20: Keep the name professional.
Creative names can work in your favor, but remember that you are providing a professional service and that clients need to take you seriously.
Step 21: Make sure the name makes sense.
Don't just say a name.People will probably be confused by this.You should be able to explain why you chose the name if it is not obvious to the average person.
Step 22: Consider the names of other law firms.
You don't want your law firm to be too similar to a competing firm.Something original will stand out in your competition.
Step 23: It's a good idea to avoid alliteration.
Lewis Legal lords may sound cute, but people rarely look for that quality in their attorneys, and having a silly name may hurt your business.An attorney who takes the practice of law seriously is what people want.Someone who maintains a professional business is what they want.
Step 24: Prepare for growth.
Your name should be broad enough to encompass areas your law firm might grow into.If you're currently specializing in divorce, instead of naming your firm Davis Divorce Law, consider using Davis Family Law.