Michael Vater: Expanding Legal Practice with Non Traditional Methods and Partnerships

In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Michael Vater discuss:Growth and networking beyond traditional legal marketingLeveraging legal tech and AI to enhance efficiencyBuilding strategic partnerships for sustainable growthEffectively balancing leadership, operations, and legal work   Key Takeaways:Lawyers should build strategic partnerships with realtors, title agents, and medical professionals who connect with potential clients needing legal services instead of relying solely on attorney referrals.Generative AI tools enhance legal research by cross-referencing case law and statutes, helping attorneys find crucial precedents faster and more accurately.Zoom court appearances reduce travel time and create "bonus time" for attorneys to focus on business development and client acquisition.Law firms often let accounts receivable grow unchecked, but strict payment policies like upfront retainers or automated billing prevent financial strain and ensure cash flow.   "The world is constantly changing. If you fail to change with it, you will be left behind." —  Michael Vater   Got a challenge growing your law practice? Email me at steve@fretzin.com with your toughest question, and I'll answer it live on the show—anonymously, just using your first name!   Thank you to our Sponsors! Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Each week, Raise the Bar delivers expert insights on business development, legal tech, and the strategies top rainmakers lawyers use to build thriving practices. No fluff—just actionable tips to help you work smarter and grow faster. Subscribe for free at RaiseTheBarMedia.co: https://content.raisethebarmedia.co/raise-the-bar-newsletter-sign-up/?cid=679b5ad89eeed   Episode References:  The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey: https://www.amazon.com/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful/dp/0743269519   About Michael Vater: Michael Vater, Esq., Managing Partner of The Ticktin Law Group in South Florida, has successfully litigated complex cases across the U.S. and abroad, including over 20 Florida counties, California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, South Carolina, and Iceland, where his victory set a European Union precedent on consumer rights in aviation disputes. Since joining the firm in 2010, he has specialized in entertainment, personal injury, and real estate litigation, serving as lead counsel in over 1,600 cases and litigating 100+ Jury and Non-Jury Trials. Recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star, awarded to only 2.5% of Florida lawyers, he has also been featured in Authority Magazine, Lawyers of Distinction, Business Daily Media, and PacerMonitor.   Connect with Michael Vater:   Website: https://legalbrains.com/ Email: mvater@legalbrains.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ticktin-law-group-p.a./ Twitter: https://x.com/LegalBrains Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTicktinLawGroup/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legalbrains/#   Connect with Steve Fretzin: LinkedIn: Steve Fretzin Twitter: @stevefretzin Instagram: @fretzinsteve Facebook: Fretzin, Inc. Website: Fretzin.com Email: Steve@Fretzin.com Book: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more! YouTube: Steve Fretzin Call Steve directly at 847-602-6911     Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.