Everyone knows the impacts of Phoenix’s collapsing economy on professions like construction workers, realtors, and title attorneys. But few people realize the impacts on many lawyers. The downturn negatively affects both customers’ ability to pay and lawyers’ ability to provide services in Phoenix.
Some firms, like Frutkin Law, recognized the changing needs of Arizonans early on and now has five thriving Valley bankruptcy offices. Other firms, which used to turn their noses up at such cases, are now opening bankruptcy divisions to try to accommodate the growing numbers of filings (the 2858 filings in July 2010 was 11.4% more than July 2009).
But many lawyers in small firms or in other areas of law are not faring well. Many people think that criminal law is recession-proof or, believe the rhetoric about rampant crime due to illegal immigration; therefore business must be up. But total violent and property crime rates have been decreasing in Phoenix. Then, due to the economy, fewer white collar people can afford private attorneys. This has led to falling income, staff reductions and reductions in services: a rough year for attorneys. People in law are developing new ways to stay in business and to provide services to the growing number of people in need of legal assistance.
Julio and Melanie LaBoy established LaBoy Law Office in May 2009. With the slogan “Legal Solutions in Tough Times,” LaBoy provides assistance in criminal defense, probation, private investigation, bankruptcy and immigration cases. Julio LaBoy says, “Our emphasis on customer service [which includes 24/7 lawyer access, payment plans, and house calls] has attracted new clients, inspired customer loyalty and helped us succeed.”
LaBoy Law Office has joined Arizona Paralegal Alliance (which provides low-cost paralegal assistance and lawyer referrals) to host monthly networking gatherings. The informal meetings held at various Valley locations provide opportunities for lawyers to unwind, and exchange information and knowledge, as well as allow people to meet and ask lawyers quick questions in informal settings.
Another lawyer, enhancing access to legal services for the public, as well as new customers for Valley lawyers, is Billie Tarascio, who brought Access Legal Services to Arizona from Oregon. “What makes Access Legal Services unique from other firms,” Tarascio says, “is that Access Legal Services offers ONLY limited scope services and at a fraction of the cost of traditional attorneys.”
Everyone is entitled to adequate legal defense…even during a recession.
Attorneys, Phoenix, AZ
