216. How Did Jeff Sterling Hughes Transform His Family Law Firm?

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Jeff Sterling Hughes, founder of Sterling Lawyers, a family law firm. Jeff discusses his journey from poverty to law, the firm's rapid growth, and the shift to focusing solely on family law. He shares the challenges and failures encountered, particularly with fixed-fee pricing, intake processes, and converting consults to clients. Jeff explains the firm's innovative approach to billing, moving from court-event-based fees to time-based fees, which improved efficiency and client satisfaction. He also touches on the importance of managing compassion fatigue and maintaining personal freedom. The episode offers insights into adapting to change, embracing technology, and the future of law practices.  Jeff Hughes is the CEO/Co-Founder of Sterling Lawyers, where he has taken his family law firm from ground zero to a powerhouse with 25 attorneys and $15 million in success. It's been a rollercoaster—9 business failures, 3 triumphs, and many lessons. He is the CEO at Sterling Lawyers, leading a dynamic team. He is not just practicing law but reshaping how family law clients are served. Rapid growth through online marketing (00:01:48) Jeff's success in quickly growing his firm to eight lawyers through effective online marketing strategies. Mistakes and pivoting (00:03:23) Initial mistakes in trying to serve various practice areas, leading to a pivot to focus exclusively on family law. Transformation and growth (00:04:47) The impact of focusing on family law, rebuilding operations, and transitioning to fixed fee pricing on the firm's growth. Fixed fee pricing strategy (00:07:24) Jeff explains the approach to fixed-fee pricing, including providing clients with three different fee quotes and managing payment plans. Client service and empathy (00:13:03) The firm emphasizes communication, empathy, and data-driven decision-making to enhance client service. Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free  Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call