244.01 The Business and Economics of Law Firms

This course will provide students with an enhanced and vital understanding of law firms as business entities in a competitive and global market. Based on feedback from employers, interviews with hundreds of lawyers and published accounts from law firm leaders, it is clear that technical legal ability will be necessary but not sufficient to excel in the practice of law or any business endeavor in coming decades. The topics will be explored through the review and analysis of literature, statutes, and case studies, and will include a basic financial analysis of the operations of law firms. Assignments will be collaborative and will simulate the client advisory process allowing students to gain experience providing legal advice and business recommendations. Associate Dean and Senior Lecturing Fellow Bruce Elvin will lead and organize the seminar, with senior law and business leaders serving as guest lecturers many weeks.

Fall 2022

Course Number Course Credits Evaluation Method Instructor
244.01
Course Credits
Reflective Writing
Group project(s)
Practical exercises
Class participation
Bruce A. Elvin
Sakai site: https://sakai.duke.edu/portal/site/LAW-244-01-F22
Email list: LAW-244-01-F22@sakai.duke.edu
Course
Degree Requirements
Course Requirements - JD
Course Areas of Practice