When starting out on your own as a solo practitioner or contract attorney, you will likely give some thought to your workspace. There are several services and websites that can help you find the perfect workspace solution.
The Virtual Office
A virtual office is a great solution for attorneys who do not need to work in an office space every day, but want the amenities of having an established law office. Virtual office services usually operate on a subscription plan and offer address and mail services (rather than a P.O. Box address). They also include a dedicated telephone number with transferring services. Many services also offer the ability to book conference rooms or private offices when you need them.
- ServCorp’s Virtual Office offers packages in major cities across the U.S. Subscribers are able to book rooms and offices across the world, and benefit from an address in desirable locations across the country. ServCorp also offers a dedicated team for subscribers, rather than a call center structure.
- Intelligent Office also offers virtual office services at locations across the country. Packages include flexible meeting and office space rental, secure address and virtual assistant to answer your calls. Intelligent Office states that clients pay only for the services they need.
- Regus offers virtual office services at an extensive list of desirable addresses around the world. There are several plans to choose from. The most basic plan includes basic mail services and a receptionist. The most expensive includes a private office 5 days a week and access to a network of business lounges.
The On-Demand Office or Meeting Room
Some new websites are offering a way to search for and rent an office or meeting space by the hour, day, or even month. Rooms are often extra, unused space in an existing office.
- ShareDesk allows offices to rent out free desks, offices, or meeting rooms by the hour, day, and sometimes month. A search provides locations for rent with a description of the workspace, a photo, and the rate. Locations are available worldwide.
- LiquidSpace offers desks, offices, and meeting rooms for rent by the day or the hour across the United States. They also offer the ability to book workspace at Marriott locations nationwide.
Shared Office Space
If you are looking for a permanent workspace away from home, subleasing an extra office from an existing law practice or sharing office space can be a convenient solution. Attorneys often share the costs of overhead in a shared space, but maintain a permanent and professional workspace. Online classifieds, including local legal publications, often list spaces for lease. Additionally, sites such as Looking For Space and LawSpaceMatch offer classified services for shared office spaces.
In addition to the options above, check with your local libraries (including law libraries) that may offer free or low cost meeting spaces for patrons. Some municipalities also allow professionals to reserve meeting rooms.
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