Archer Matrimonial & Family Law Practice Chair Stephanie Zane was featured in a recent Law.com article examining the increasing demand for family law services in New Jersey and the challenges firms face in recruiting and retaining experienced attorneys.
As demand for family law continues to grow, Stephanie noted that the practice offers a stable and consistent stream of work, with clients seeking counsel for matters ranging from divorce and custody disputes to prenuptial agreements. She observed that attorneys are increasingly recognizing family law as a practice area with long-term opportunity and steady demand.
Stephanie also discussed the unique challenges of recruiting experienced family law attorneys, particularly those transitioning from solo or small firm practices to a larger firm environment. She emphasized that success at a full-service firm requires more than legal experience, it also requires a collaborative mindset and a willingness to embrace the firm’s culture and team-based approach to serving clients.
She highlighted the advantages of practicing family law within a larger firm, pointing to the ability to collaborate with attorneys across multiple disciplines, including estate planning and other complementary practice areas. These internal resources allow attorneys to provide clients with comprehensive legal solutions while benefiting from the support of a broader professional network.
Addressing attorney retention, Stephanie emphasized that family law demands not only legal skill but also empathy, strong communication, and the ability to build trust with clients during some of the most difficult periods of their lives. She noted that successful family lawyers must be able to listen carefully, understand their clients’ concerns, and provide steady guidance throughout the legal process.
Stephanie’s comments underscore both the opportunities and the unique demands of practicing family law, highlighting the importance of collaboration, client service, and adaptability in today’s evolving legal landscape.
Read the complete article here.