Where to from here?
The future of Small and Mid-size Firms.

After 36 years advising law firms, my final workshop explores what makes the best firms successful — and where the profession goes from here – Dr Neil Oakes

For more than three decades, I’ve watched the Australasia legal profession evolve through a continual sedimentary process, layer upon layer. Management fads have come and gone, alternative models have gained momentum only to lose it, and most so-called ‘strategic threats’ have failed to materialise. Through it all, the legal industry has remained remarkably resilient.

As I approach my long-planned retirement, one question stands out: Where to from here for Australasian lawyers? In my final workshop (I promise), I’ll share insights from 36 years of experience — what makes the best firms successful and where the legal profession is headed next.

Dr Neil Oakes

When and Format

Wednesday, 21 May 2025 SYDNEY CBD 9.00 am – 3.00 pm AEST

Friday, 23 May 2025 MELBOURNE CBD 9.00 am – 3.00 pm AEST

Wednesday, 4 June 2025 Virtual via ZOOM 9.00 am – 3.00 pm AEST

CPD Points

Subject to specific requirements of relevant State rulings, attendance at this workshop allows participants to earn 4 CPD points.

Program

Three decades of outlier performance, why the best firms are the best firms

  • Defining ‘best’
  • Getting the basics right, consistently
  • Developing and executing strategy
  • Day to day management

Where to for law firm profitability

  • Is leverage dead? I don’t think so, how and why to maintain and grow it
  • Lawyer productivity
  • Measurement matters, how to manage it
  • Integrating AI for small and mid-sized firms
  • Pricing

Where to for Partners and Directors

  • Ownership models to accommodate generational wants and needs
  • Partner performance and profit sharing
  • The long game v’s the here and now
  • Exit and entry issues

Book Now

Where to from here? The Future of Small and Mid-size Law Firms Workshop Sydney CBD 2025

Start: 9:00am May 21st 2025
End: 3:00pm May 21st 2025
Timezone: Australia/Sydney

Where to from here? The Future of Small and Mid-size Law Firms Workshop Melbourne CBD 2025

Start: 9:00am May 23rd 2025
End: 3:00pm May 23rd 2025
Timezone: Australia/Sydney

Where to from here? The Future of Small and Mid-size Law Firms Workshop Zoom 2025

Start: 9:00am Jun 4th 2025
End: 3:00pm Jun 4th 2025
Timezone: Australia/Sydney

Cost

The workshop cost is AUD $990 per person for in-person attendance and AUD $880 per person for virtual attendance.

Presenter

Neil Oakes

FMRC

Neil has served the Australasian legal profession since 1989. During this time he has assisted many firms with myriad management challenges. Neil assists firms with strategy and profit growth, partner / director performance management and profit sharing, key talent management, management structures and succession management. Neil conducts planning retreats regularly, assisting firms to plan for and achieve greater success. Neil presents in FMRC workshops and is often invited to present key note addresses at management forums throughout Australia and New Zealand. Neil is a Director.

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