Many firms say they have a Law Firm Strategy, but few actually do. In this episode, Chris Batz breaks down what true strategy looks like inside corporate law firms and why clarity must come before growth. He introduces his framework for effective law firm strategy, the "three P's": positioning, perception, and competition. He explains how each reveals the gap between where a firm stands today and where it aims to be. From understanding client perception to benchmarking against competitors, he outlines how to replace internal optimism with market reality and strategic focus.

Chris also tackles the forces reshaping the legal marketplace—AI, private equity, and shifting client expectations—and how they demand a more agile, evidence-based approach to law firm strategy. Rather than chasing growth for its own sake, Chris argues that firms must make disciplined trade-offs, align behavior with purpose, and revisit their strategy regularly to stay relevant.

This episode challenges leaders to ask: when was the last time your law firm strategy reflected the market you're actually competing in?

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 What Law Firm Strategy Really Means

01:00 The Three P's: Positioning, Perception, and Competition

03:00 How to Define Your Market Position

06:20 Why Client Perception Shapes Reality

11:10 Building Credibility and Market Visibility

14:00 Adapting Strategy to Client Needs and Market Change

17:30 Common Pitfalls and the Strategy Gap

20:50 Growth Decisions: Lateral Hires vs. Mergers

23:25 On Law Firm Strategy

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