When someone is working nonstop, it changes their demeanor. They’re tired in meetings, forgetful, and the ball can get dropped. We all need a brain break. We all need time dedicated to ourselves. And that has a direct correlation with work performance. At HTM, there’s less burnout than at other companies I’ve been at, where it was a common reason for people to leave. Our PTO policy and requirements really keep the team energized, refreshed, and showing up their best. Of course, if you want to implement new PTO policies in your firm, make sure you include clearly defined, written expectations in your handbook. Know what policy you want, and speak with your employment attorney so you’re in compliance with your state’s laws. Create a people-centered policy that prioritizes time to face the unexpected in life, explore passions, get a mental break, and enjoy family time.
RJon: The point is: your people have lives outside of work. You should also have a life outside of work.
Rest is not just “nice to have”, it’s necessary . So if you or your people are having a hard time scheduling it for yourselves, do something different. Don’t risk burnout.
Enjoy your families, enjoy some pie, and carve out time to enjoy your life too.
–RJon
90-DAY LOOK BACK
We’re Kate Speed and Amy Smith of Lambariello Smith & Speed, an estate and trust planning and administration firm in New Jersey. We protect what people value most during life and after death. Our journey at How To Manage A Small Law Firm started two years ago, after we bought our practice when one partner passed away and another left to start their own firm. As new business owners, we were at a crossroads and didn’t know what to do. Since joining, we’ve achieved a financial milestone. In 2024, we ended the year breaking $1 million in gross revenue, and as of July this year, we’ve already hit that number again. We’re now able to hire the right attorneys who bring years of experience.
We’ve always wanted to buy the building we are currently leasing, and with the revenue and team in the office now, we are one step closer to making that a reality. Amy has more time to pursue her certification as a certified elder law attorney. She hopes to spend more quality time with her family, and she can leave the office earlier. Kate wants to move into a new home in the next year or so, and the predictable revenue at the firm is making the search more concrete. As we move forward, we’re going for $2 million this year so we can do more for our clients, provide more stability to our team, and continue to create that balance that lets us enjoy the success we’ve worked so hard for.
–Kate Speed and Amy Smith, Lambariello Smith & Speed
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NOVEMBER 2025 MEMBER BULLETIN
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