Description: A must attend program for firm managers for both the large and smaller firms. This all-day program will cover a host of firm management issues including law firm economics, partnership structures, diversity and well being issues, and will include break out sessions.

Law Firm Economics Presentation
The headlines tell us daily: “Worst Economy Since WWII – Unemployment Could Hit Double Digits - Another Bank Fails.” Law firms are not immune. Nationally known consultant Michael Short with the Hildebrandt consulting firm will lead the dialogue on how law firms can weather this economic storm.

Beyond Money Presentation
Senior partner to new associate: “When the client says that it is not about the money; it’s about the principle – it’s about the money every time.” Maybe. Maybe not. But what about us as lawyers – is money the only thing we care about? And is it the only thing we should focus firm management around? Is it possible to have rigorous, disciplined management around other values? How would that look? Might we even be better lawyers? Dave Shearon, Executive Director of the Tennessee Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization, will draw on recent findings in the fields of positive psychology and positive organizational studies to engage participants in developing new insights and pathways that go beyond money.

Career Paths, Partnership Structures-Panel Discussion
Law firms are considering the management of attorney talent in new ways, seeking a measurable and managable approach to the retention and development of their attorneys while enhancing profitability. The right combination of new management structures (two tier partnerships, non-equity partnerships, of counsel positions) and attorney integration and development tools (training and development programs, career counseling, coaching, and mentoring) can add value both to the attorney and to the organization. Panelists will discuss management structures explored or adopted by their firms and "career path" programs and initiatives. Practical ideas for firms of all sizes will be shared, recognizing the utility of strategies that work with a new generation of attorneys and those with unique needs, including women and diverse attorneys. 



Diversity Ramifications
The Tennessee bar faces a great challenge in attracting lawyers of color to practice in our state and keeping them here when we get them. By any measure, our state does not have a very diverse bar. Law firm leaders from across the State are striving to correct the problem. The Two years ago, the TBA formed a special task force to address the issue and has now formed a special standing committee for that purpose. Jane Pigott is a consultant who works with law firms nation-wide in devising programs to attract, mentor and retain lawyers of color. She will discuss the day-to-day problems inherent in creating a diverse workplace and practical strategies for achieving success in recruiting, mentoring, retaining and promoting lawyers of color.

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Hotel Reservations Take advantage of the special $209 TBA rate at the Hermitage Hotel. Call 615-244-3121 to make your reservation now. Cutoff date for this special rate is April 3.

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SAVE MONEY: Use the prepaid CLE credits that come with your TBA Complete Membership and save money on this course. Not a TBA member, join now to start saving.”