The 1958 Lawyer

Ron Bockstahler
  • 5.0 (3)
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  • Updated Semimonthly

In 1958 the ABA published a pamphlet with an article titled “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. Prior to 1960, most attorney engagements were project based. As a result, many lawyers felt their pay scale was falling behind that of other professional service providers. For many lawyers, this article spurred them to change the way they billed for legal services and thus the billable hour was born. It is a stark reminder that change is the only constant in our world and those that do not keep up with the change often times find themselves obsolete. To be sure, the business surrounding the practice of law has continued to change since the billable hour went mainstream. This podcast is all about how law firms and their clients are adapting to a changing business world to remain viable. Your host, Ron Bockstahler, is the Founder and CEO of Amata Law Office Suites, an attorney support Services company. For more than 30 years Ron has worked with law firms of all sizes, helping them manage expenses, implement new technologies and strategically grow their law practice. Ron will pull from his experience and those of his guests to uncover new developments in the business world and how the legal industry is adapting to meet the changing demands of their clients. Each show will feature successful business people, politicians, judges and attorneys to provide insight into their thoughts and how they are meeting today's challenges.

  1. 3d ago

    Bill Reynolds: Flat-Fee Appeals, Contingency Litigation, and Escaping the Billable Hour Trap

    Tired of guessing what to charge and hoping clients don’t push back? In this episode, you’ll hear how a former big-firm partner turned ERISA specialist built a transparent flat-fee and contingency model—and what solo and small-firm lawyers can do to stop underpricing themselves and start charging what they’re really worth.   What does it actually take to transition from big-firm litigation to a highly specialized solo ERISA practice? Why do new solo practitioners almost always undervalue their legal services at the start? How can you use peer networks and local bar associations to gather accurate market data on pricing? What is the benefit of splitting appeals and trial litigation into two distinct, structured fee models? How does a transparent flat-fee appeal structure shift your focus back to the merits of a case rather than the size of the fee? Why is every additional year of legal practice an asset that justifies raising your rates? What are the hidden dangers of "chasing fees" and overlooking the warning signs of a weak case? How do you build the confidence to tell a client to "shop around" when they push back on your pricing? How is the rise of AI changing client expectations, and why must lawyers defend their role as human problem-solvers? Why is niche specialization essential in crowded urban markets, while general practice still rules rural communities?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Bill Reynolds for sharing his insights on how lawyers can price their services with confidence, build sustainable business models, and escape the billable hour trap. If you want to learn more about the legal network and support structures Bill leverages to grow his practice, check out Amata's community of legal professionals—the exact type of network he credits with providing the peer support and market insights needed to thrive. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow attorney who is looking to grow their practice with more confidence and intentionality. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!   About Bill Reynolds: Bill Reynolds is the Founder at Reynolds&, an Assistant Clinical Professor at Chicago-Kent College of Law, and the Director of the C-K Law Group's Employee Benefits Clinic. His practice and teaching focus on individual welfare benefit claims under ERISA, including short- and long-term disability, life, and health insurance claim disputes. Prior to entering academia, Bill spent years in private practice as a partner and shareholder at DeBofsky Law in Chicago, successfully litigating complex ERISA cases nationwide. He is also the co-editor of Bloomberg BNA’s Employee Benefits Law treatise.   Connect with Bill Reynolds: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-reynolds-4973ba44/ Firm: https://www.reynoldsand.com/     Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467   Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/   Show notes by Team Podcastologist   Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

  2. Jul 16

    Ron & Rebecca: How to Collect Without Conflict and Get Paid on Time

    Most lawyers are working late, billing hard—and silently bleeding cash in accounts receivable. In this episode, Ron and Rebecca break down exactly how to tighten up AR, collect without conflict, and stop leaving money on the table.   What is the single most important number a law firm should track—and why isn't it revenue or billable hours? What is "lockup," and how does it secretly trap thousands of dollars of your firm's cash in limbo? Why does waiting even a single week to send an invoice radically slash your chances of ever getting paid? How can enforcing a strict late fee policy actually "cure" chronic late-paying clients? When a client fails to pay their bill, why is it often an intake mistake rather than a collection issue? How should law firms structure their retainer replenishment to ensure they never work for free? What simple technology shift allows small and solo firms to get paid more than twice as fast? How can you approach a difficult collections conversation without ruining the client relationship? Why is suing a client for unpaid fees often a trap that leads to expensive malpractice counterclaims? What is the mindset shift lawyers need to have when it comes to demanding the money they’ve earned?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Ron and Rebecca Bockstahler for sharing their incredibly practical insights on how to tighten up your AR, collect without conflict, and stop leaving money on the table. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow attorney who needs to get paid faster. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!    Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467   Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/ Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

  3. Jul 9

    Larry Chester: Turning Legal Work Into Real Cash Flow, Not Just Paper Profit

    Most small firms think they’re doing fine because their P&L shows a profit—right up until payroll is due and the bank account is empty. In this episode, you’ll learn how to read the story behind your numbers so your “profitable” firm actually has cash in the bank.   What’s the difference between profit and cash flow, and why does a green P&L still leave you struggling to cover payroll? What is the single biggest mistake small law firms and solo practitioners make when checking their financial health? How can a non-financial business owner learn to read financial statements and manage their business by exception? Why should lawyers look at their billable hours as physical inventory—and what happens to the time you don't use? How do you calculate matter-level profitability to ensure every client is actually making you money? What does a truly disciplined receivables process look like, and why should the attorney never be the one chasing the money? How can small firm owners protect themselves against internal fraud, and what simple system of checks and balances prevents it? How do you know when your firm has outgrown a bookkeeper and actually needs a fractional CFO? Why is a weekly billing cycle so critical to maintaining a healthy cash flow? What is the danger of running your law firm based on "gut feeling" instead of hard operational numbers?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Larry Chester for sharing his insights on how to balance life and business, without losing your sanity. If you want to dive deeper, grab a copy of his book Don't Lose Your Balance: Live Life or Build a Business? Do Both. It’s packed with real-world advice, practical steps, and a few hard-earned lessons you won’t want to miss. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs some work-life balance. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!   About Larry Chester: Larry has served as a CFO for 25 years for companies including Colovos Company, Republic Windows and Doors, United Service Companies, and High Sierra Sport Company, helping them eliminate losses and improving financial operations and reporting. Realizing that he enjoyed the challenges of helping companies that were working their way through a crisis, he joined a bankruptcy trustee for several years, analyzing the financial condition of client companies and managing them through those difficult times. Soon after that, he struck out on his own, forming CFO Simplified’s team of CFOs. Since forming CFO Simplified, Larry has been involved in Business Turnaround and Mergers and Acquisitions, in addition to Financial and Operations Management for his clients. Larry is an intuitive businessman, able to grasp complex situations, driving to the heart of the matter, while helping to develop creative solutions to problems. His greatest pleasure comes from working with an owner to help his company develop tighter internal controls and greater profitability. In doing so, they work together, guiding the company to smoother operations and a stronger financial position. Larry lives in Highland Park, IL, where he holds court for his three daughters and eight grandchildren.   Connect with Larry Chester:  Website: https://www.cfosimplified.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lchester/     Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467   Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/ Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

  4. Jul 2

    Steve Mesirow: How Solo Attorneys Can Defer Hundreds of Thousands in Taxes

    Mid-year is one of the most powerful windows to reshape your tax bill and retirement future. In this episode, you’ll learn how solo and small-firm attorneys can legally shelter six figures a year, catch up fast if they’ve started late, and turn their practice into a true retirement engine.   Why is waiting until tax season the absolute worst time to plan your retirement? How can solo and small-firm attorneys legally shelter up to $300,000 a year from taxes? What are the different "levels" of retirement plans, and how do you know which one fits your firm? Why is starting early—even with small amounts—the most powerful wealth-building tool you have? How do rising earners trade lower tax rates today for decades of completely tax-free growth? What is a cash balance plan, and why do you not need a massive corporate firm to use one? How do you calculate the exact nest egg needed to secure a six-figure pension by age 65? Why is being "conservative" with your investments actually a massive risk for your long-term future? How can getting your accountant and financial advisor in the same room change your financial trajectory? What mid-year financial moves can you make right now before the January 1st deadline locks you out?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Steve Mesirow for sharing his insights on how solo attorneys can take control of their financial future, maximize compounding growth, and make the government wait for its cut. If you want to dive deeper into these high-contribution strategies and start building your own retirement powerhouse, be sure to connect with Steve and utilize his wealth of wealth-management expertise. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow attorney or business owner who needs to optimize their tax bill. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!   About Steve Mesirow: Steve Mesirow is a Senior Managing Director in Mesirow Wealth Management. He provides investment advice and financial planning strategies to individuals, business owners, and charitable organizations that are designed to help accumulate, manage, and preserve wealth. Steve joined the firm in 1993 and has more than 30 years of financial services experience. He has been recognized by Forbes | SHOOK as a Best-in-State Wealth Advisor in 2025 and 2026. Steve serves on the Jewish United Fund Health and Human Services subcommittee. Steve earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History/Political Science from the University of Michigan, a Master of Arts in History from the University of Maryland, and a Master's in teaching from the American University. Steve is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.   Connect with Steve Mesirow: Website: https://www.mesirow.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenmesirow/ Slides: https://drive.google.com/file/u/0/d/14C2aOiBMs84asVohHbGKIAUXKB7jFFTv/view?usp=drive_link     Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467   Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/ Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

  5. Jun 25

    Jared Gibson: Turning Expertise into a Visible Personal Brand with AI and Video

    Your law degree is elite, but your online presence is invisible—and it’s costing you, clients. Legal buyers are searching for your exact expertise, but all they’re finding are quiet profiles. In this episode, Jared Gibson breaks down how to take the brilliant insights locked in your head and turn them into high-visibility content that commands attention from both humans and AI.   What’s the secret to turning what’s already in your head into a high-visibility content machine? How do you build a custom “AI brain” that replicates your unique voice without sounding like a robot? Why did the post-pandemic buyer journey permanently shift the spotlight from corporate logos to personal brands? What’s the biggest mistake time-starved professionals make when trying to stay consistent on social media? How can you ruthlessly repurpose a single monthly interview into a multi-channel content strategy? Why is chasing polished perfection actually the fastest way to kill your authenticity online? What’s the truth about LinkedIn engagement, and why are your actual buyers rarely the ones leaving comments? How do you leverage the power of Claude and modern AI tools without polluting the internet with generic AI slop?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Jared Gibson for sharing his insights on how executives and attorneys can get out of their comfort zones, scale their visibility, and show up everywhere their buyers are. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to stop waiting for perfect and just start creating. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!   About Jared Gibson: Jared Gibson is the co-founder of Outworks, a company that helps B2B CEOs, founders, and executives build personal brands and drive leads on LinkedIn. He began his career in traditional B2B sales roles before transitioning into entrepreneurship, eventually pivoting Outworks from an initial focus on email lead generation to a dedicated LinkedIn content and relationship-building agency. Jared is an advocate for "operator thinking," authentic networking, and leveraging video to capture a leader's genuine voice. He focuses on building scalable content operating systems that help time-starved executives maintain consistent digital visibility without sacrificing their unique personalities to generic AI tools.    Connect with Jared Gibson: Website: https://www.outworks.io/     Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467   Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/ Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

  6. Jun 18

    Robert Harney: How Smarter Phone Systems Stop Law Firms from Losing Clients at First Contact

    Most law firms obsess over marketing but ignore what happens when the phone actually rings. In this episode, you’ll learn how modern, AI-enabled phone systems turn first contact from a hidden leak into one of your firm’s most powerful revenue drivers.   How do modern, AI-enabled phone systems turn a law firm's hidden leaks into revenue drivers? What is "telecom hell," and how can growth-minded firms escape it? Why does the biggest leak in a firm's marketing funnel happen after the prospect calls? How can a well-optimized phone network find 40% or more in hidden savings on your current bill? What are the foundational network elements required before you even look at a VoIP provider? How do smartphone systems use analytics and CRM integration to ensure calls convert into signed matters? What is the proper balance between the human touch and AI during client intake? Why should law firms avoid "jack of all trades" practice management systems in favor of open APIs? What hidden taxes and manufactured fees are phone vendors hiding in your contract? Why are attorneys losing hundreds of dollars an hour by trying to be their own office tech support?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Robert Harney for sharing his insights on how to escape telecom hell and transform your law firm’s phone system into a client-converting profit engine. If you want to dive deeper into maximizing your intake, analyzing your communication bills, or building a high-level touch network that integrates the best of human expertise and AI, connect with Robert and find out how to stop losing clients at first contact. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow firm owner who needs to stop bleeding leads. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!   About Robert Harney: In 2009, Robert Harney set out to transform the way businesses handle telecommunications. With over 25 years of industry experience and a passion for supporting fellow entrepreneurs, he founded Open One Solutions to cut through the chaos and bring sanity, clarity, and service back to business phone systems. Robert’s approach is simple: give business owners powerful, reliable communication tools without the headaches. His deep technical knowledge, combined with his curiosity and love of technology and how it serves his clients, is what fosters long-term client relationships and makes Open One a rare gem in an industry filled with impersonal giants. Robert is a telecom expert with a passion for leadership, community, and connection. As Chairman of the Business Executives Association of Chicago and Secretary of the Rotary Club of Chicago—where he also co-chairs the Job1 Program—Robert leads with purpose and vision. He serves on the Extended Board of the Small Business Advocacy Council and is a Past Master of his Masonic Lodge. His support of organizations like Child’s Voice School and Spotlight Youth Theater underscores his commitment to empowering others and strengthening communities. Outside the office, Robert enjoys the outdoors, classic cars, fine spirits, and cigars. He is a proud alumnus of Beloit College. Robert’s mission is clear: eliminate the stress, confusion, and inefficiency of technology so business leaders can focus on what they do best—growing their business.   Connect with Robert Harney: Website: https://openonesolutions.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertharney/       Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467   Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/   Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

  7. Jun 11

    Rakesh Parikh: Valuation, Exit Planning, and the Hidden Power of Your Law Firm’s Address

    Most lawyers never connect today’s billable rate to tomorrow’s exit number. In this episode, you’ll learn how location, recurring revenue, team structure, and smart exit planning can transform a professional services firm from a lifestyle practice into a business buyers actually want to pay a premium for. What’s the difference between what your law firm is worth and what a buyer will actually pay? How can a solo or small firm owner transform a lifestyle practice into a sellable asset? Why is "de-risking" the most important step for an entrepreneur looking to exit? How does your office address and overhead directly impact your valuation multiple? What is the biggest misconception lawyers have about the value of their practice? Why should a business owner work backwards from the end in mind? How do you know if your firm is actually ready for a private equity exit? Why is recurring revenue the "holy grail" for professional service firms? How can an annual valuation be used as a tool for partner incentives and team growth? What’s the one thing that makes valuation more "art" than science?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Rakesh Parikh, co-founder of Pivot Capital, for sharing his insights on how to build a firm that’s truly an asset, not just a job. If you want to dive deeper into how to de-risk your business and prepare for a high-value exit, be sure to connect with the team at Pivot Capital. Their expertise in M&A advisory and exit planning is exactly what you need to ensure your hard work pays off when it’s time to move on to your next chapter. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to hear this. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!   About Rakesh Parikh:  Website: https://pivotcapitalllc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rakesh-parikh-3a69207/     Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467 Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/   Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

  8. Jun 4

    Erin Guthrie: Turning Your Law Firm into a Valuable, Exit-Ready Asset

    Most lawyers assume their practice ends the day they stop practicing. In this episode, you’ll learn how to turn your law firm into a sellable, exit-ready asset—with the right timelines, processes, and client strategy to actually get paid for what you’ve built.   Why do 87% of businesses never sell? When should a lawyer actually start planning their exit strategy? How do you make a law practice less dependent on the founding rainmaker? What role do branding, online reviews, and marketing play in firm valuation? How do you build documented, repeatable processes that reassure a buyer? What are the dangers of over-relying on one or two "whale" clients? How can a solopreneur or single lawyer creatively structure a successful handoff? What is the difference between an earn-out and a cash buyout regarding risk and control? How do you distinguish between an "ego number" and a realistic valuation? Why is it never too early to start planning with the final end in mind?   That’s all for today! Big thanks to Erin for sharing these crucial insights on how to transition from a practicing attorney to an asset owner with an exit-ready firm. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs some help building a business that can run without them. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!   About Erin Guthrie: Erin Braddock Guthrie is the Managing Director of Exit Factor of Chicago Downtown, where she specializes in helping business owners transition their companies into highly valuable, long-term assets. Recognized by Crain's Chicago Business as a "40 Under 40" honoree, she has built a distinguished career guiding corporate growth and economic strategy, previously serving as Senior Director of Cloud+AI Strategy at Microsoft, Senior Director of Corporate Strategy at Dell Technologies, and Secretary of Commerce for the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity under Governor JB Pritzker. Her extensive background also includes leadership as the General Manager of Regional Midwest Operations and Marketplace at Uber and an Engagement Manager at McKinsey & Company. Erin holds an MBA as a fellowship recipient from the University of Michigan's Stephen M. Ross School of Business and a B.A. in Public Policy from Stanford University.   Connect with Erin Guthrie: Website: https://exitfactor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinbraddockguthrie/     Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronbockstahler/ Company website: https://amatacorp.com/ “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your-Balance-Business/dp/1964046467   Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bockstahler-aa786b2a6/ Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

In 1958 the ABA published a pamphlet with an article titled “The 1958 Lawyer and his 1938 Dollar” which gives our podcast its title, and its inspiration. Prior to 1960, most attorney engagements were project based. As a result, many lawyers felt their pay scale was falling behind that of other professional service providers. For many lawyers, this article spurred them to change the way they billed for legal services and thus the billable hour was born. It is a stark reminder that change is the only constant in our world and those that do not keep up with the change often times find themselves obsolete. To be sure, the business surrounding the practice of law has continued to change since the billable hour went mainstream. This podcast is all about how law firms and their clients are adapting to a changing business world to remain viable. Your host, Ron Bockstahler, is the Founder and CEO of Amata Law Office Suites, an attorney support Services company. For more than 30 years Ron has worked with law firms of all sizes, helping them manage expenses, implement new technologies and strategically grow their law practice. Ron will pull from his experience and those of his guests to uncover new developments in the business world and how the legal industry is adapting to meet the changing demands of their clients. Each show will feature successful business people, politicians, judges and attorneys to provide insight into their thoughts and how they are meeting today's challenges.

Information

  • Creator
    Ron Bockstahler
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The 1958 Lawyer
  • Show Website
    The 1958 Lawyer