Episode 355 — How Two Lawyers Took on Legal Giants and Won with Spetsas Buist
What if launching your law firm amidst competition isn’t about having it all figured out, but about taking the plunge with unwavering determination and adaptability?
In this episode of The Game Changing Attorney Podcast, host Michael Mogill sits down with Charles Buist and Nicholas Spetsas, the formidable duo behind a rapidly growing law firm in Orlando. Join us as we delve into their inspiring journey from shared dreams in a cramped one-bedroom apartment to the strategic decisions that helped them navigate the challenges of launching a firm from scratch.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How taking strategic risks early in your career can pave the way for future success
- The critical role of a client-centric approach in differentiating a law firm, ensuring lasting relationships and trust by prioritizing client needs and maintaining excellent service
- The impact of leveraging advanced technology and personalized leadership strategies, like AI, Kolbe, and PRINT assessments, to foster team growth and enhance operational efficiency in a thriving law firm
Tune in as they unpack their evolution from law school allies to entrepreneurial partners, revealing the bold bets, unrelenting commitment, and client-first mindset that drove their explosive growth from day one. With an emphasis on emotional connection, tech-forward operations, and agile leadership, Charles and Nick’s story is packed with battle-tested strategies and hard-earned insights for any law firm looking to stand out — and win — in today’s hyper-competitive market.
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Show Notes:
From friendship to firm founders. “Nick and I have a history that goes all the way back to our first day at law school in 2013. Living together in a tiny one-bedroom near campus, we forged a bond that laid the foundation for what would eventually become our firm. Post-law school, I moved to Orlando and took a job at a defense firm. Meanwhile, Charles was exploring opportunities, even as far as Oregon. Fast forward to September 2021—amid the chaos of COVID—Charles pitched a bold idea. He was ready to either join me in Orlando or head to North Carolina. I realized over the weekend, there was no barrier we couldn’t overcome, and just like that, we took the plunge.”
Navigating the challenges of a new firm. “Starting from scratch meant dealing with every challenge imaginable, from setting up phones and the internet to learning the ropes of legal marketing. Our leap into the ‘golden age of SEO’ was fraught with uncertainty and the pressure of keeping the business afloat with a mere $40,000 line of credit. Our breakthrough came through persistence and strategic investments in Google local service ads, which eventually brought in critical early cases.”
Winning through clients and cases. “Our first significant win came from a complex case where others saw liabilities. Despite being turned down by several firms, a grieving mother sought us out. We listened, recognized potential, and fought a medical malpractice dismissal, ultimately securing life-changing compensation for her. This not only confirmed our purpose but also solidified our belief that we can make a meaningful difference.”
Standing out in a competitive market. “Operating in Florida’s tight-knit and competitive legal market, we’ve made it a priority to maintain a client-first approach. By focusing on exceptional client service, we differentiate ourselves from many firms that overlook the personal touch. Building genuine relationships and maintaining consistent engagement has enabled us to thrive, even amidst giants.”
Building your team and business. “Our growth strategy is deliberately client-focused and forward-thinking. As a small but nimble firm, our team has expanded to include remote lawyers and specialists, bolstered by advanced AI systems to handle mundane tasks with precision. Our complementary skill set allows me to focus on litigation, while Charles manages the business side, ensuring our firm’s strategic trajectory aligns with our core values.”
Lessons in leadership and growth. “Through tools like Kolbe and PRINT scores, we’ve learned to tailor our leadership styles to better suit each team member’s unique traits. This understanding helps us cultivate a collaborative and supportive work environment, enabling us to effectively guide individuals and, ultimately, the entire team. Recruiting attorneys who are empathetic and client-focused has been crucial to maintaining our standard of excellence and ensuring our firm’s continued success.”
The Role of passion in practice. “Nick’s unique journey — from reality TV to law — underscores the importance of authenticity and passion in our profession. We strive for lawyers who are not only technically proficient but also genuinely care about our clients. This passion is what fuels our practice and drives us to continually improve and serve our clients with dedication and loyalty.”
Growing with Purpose. “Our firm’s rapid growth has been fueled by a commitment to continuous learning and investment in high-level skills training. By developing our negotiation and trial capabilities, we ensure we remain competitive and ready to seize new opportunities. The journey from struggle to stability has made our recent successes all the more rewarding and solidified our resolve to push forward.”
Game-Changing perspectives. “To be a game changer means being open to innovation and relentless in pursuit of progress. Adapting to new challenges, trying novel approaches, and continuously refining our processes has kept us ahead in a rapidly evolving legal landscape. For us, it’s about never settling — always keeping our sights set on the horizon of what’s possible and pushing the boundaries of conventional law practice.”
Connect with Michael
- Text directly at 404-531-7691