LAW OFFICE MANAGER - what training or experience req'd?
Asked by M L
Other than a paralegal degree, what specifically would most law offices be looking for in a law office manager? Are they paid quite a lot more than a paralegal?

Best Answer:
It depends on the firm - your duties may encompass several areas. For example, in a smaller firm, you may be not only the manager, but the bookkeeper, billing clerk, and cleaning lady. The best that I have seen have some knowledge of generally recognized accounting practices. Management experience is helpful, but many firms will hire without it -- however you need leadership skills. Many "managing partners" at firms have no knowledge of what it takes to run a business, so you would have to be the person who takes control. You will need a firm hand - you have to convince those who pay you to do your job that you are in charge. Wimpy managers end up with bills that go out late because the attorneys don't enter (or submit) their fees on time. Then they seem ineffective. As to pay, it depends on what you do and on the firm and location. A larger firm with business clients is more likely to pay more, but will require more experience. The managers of many of the firms I work with are paid more than paralegals when they are good - but it may be their experience in the position, rather than a native situation. Good luck on your job hunt.