The founding partners were the ones who were named law firms.As law firms enter the industry, there is more room for creativity.Some firms are named for a specific area of law.Some firms use words to grab the attention of their potential clients.It is important to choose a name that makes sense to the clients.
Step 1: Use a family name.
Double the name to your law firm if you have a family member in it.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: If you have a partner, use their 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.
If you use partner names for the firm, each attorney would prefer their name to be 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.The first two names need to be memorable and easy to remember because they will be the most used.
Step 5: The firm's name should be brief.
Limit the number of names you include if you are using names.This will help people remember you.It will be easier to include shorter names on signs, business cards and email addresses.
Step 6: Don't leave out surnames that are difficult to spell.
A name like Oleskewicz might not be the best choice for a law firm name.It might be difficult for your clients to pronounce this name.
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 names with your law partners.
It is possible that you will have to negotiate with your law partners about which name to use.If you include your partners in the name choosing process, you can come to a decision about a name that everyone is happy with.
Step 9: Do not use non lawyers 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 employ lawyers.
Step 10: Don't choose a name that implies 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 a connection with a government agency.It is not a good idea to imply a connection with a public or charitable legal services organization.A law firm 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 the public eye.
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 because President Obama did not practice at the firm during his presidency.
Step 12: Do not exaggerate.
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 can't use the name Smith and Jones because it suggests that they are practicing law in the same firm.
Step 13: List the names of retired or dead law firm members.
The names of retired or deceased partners are not false.Make sure that these people practiced in the law firm.
Step 14: Business name restrictions can be found in your state.
If your state has any restrictions on business names, make sure to register your law firm's name.Texas does not allow businesses to register the same name as another business.
Step 15: You should include your specialty in your law firm name.
Choose a name that reflects your area of legal expertise if you specialize in criminal law, family law or tax law.The Davis Family Law Group indicates that your firm specializes in 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: You should consider trademarking your company's name.
If the branding of your firm name is very distinctive, you may want to trademark it.You can register your business name on the United States Patent and Trademark Office website.You can register your trademark online.You can download the form and fill it out.Information about your business will be required on the form.The fee to trademark a business name is between $275 and $325.
Step 18: Trustworthy sources will give feedback.
If you want feedback on your list of possible names, ask a few close friends or business associates.Give them at least a few names.Ask for honest opinions and reasons for why they don't like certain names.
Step 19: Be aware of negative associations.
The population of your community will be able to use your service.If there are any negative associations with your firm's name, make sure you get feedback from a few members of the community.
Step 20: The name should be professional.
Creative names can work in your favor, but remember that you are providing a professional service and clients need to take you seriously.
Step 21: It is important to make sure that the name makes sense.
Make a name or a word.People will probably be confused by this.You should be able to explain why you chose the name if it is not obvious to people.
Step 22: Consider names of other law firms.
You don't want your law firm to be the same as a competing firm.Something original will stand out from the crowd.
Step 23: It's a good idea to avoid repetition.
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: It's good to anticipate growth.
Your name should be broad enough to encompass areas your law firm might grow into.If you are currently specializing in divorce, instead of naming your firm Davis Divorce Law, consider using Davis Family Law.