Baretz+Brunelle | Podcast Interview With Guest James Hacking

In this episode of The Future Is Bright podcast, Howard Rosenberg, head of Talent Intelligence + Acquisitions at Baretz+Brunelle, and his co-host Chris Batz welcome James Hacking, founder and CEO of Kindleworth, which helps leading lawyers build and run their own practices. James brings experience in managing the day-to-day reality of law firm operations, having worked across HR, business development, and compliance. 

The discussion centers on why more Big Law partners are choosing to launch boutique firms and what it actually takes to make that transition work. James walks through the practical side of building a firm, from early planning to ongoing operations, and explains how shifts in the legal market are creating conditions for experienced practitioners to explore setting up their own firms.

Episode Highlights

• Why Partners Are Leaving Big Law
  James explains that conflicts are often the starting point. In many large firms, partners find themselves unable to take on certain matters or pursue opportunities that fit their practice. As firms grow and narrow their focus, some lawyers begin to question whether their current platform still supports their work.

• The Operational Reality of Launching a Law Firm
  Starting a firm involves more than a strong client base. James outlines the need for careful planning around finances, regulatory approvals, and timing. He notes that most launches take several months and require a clear view of how work and revenue will transition in the early stages.
  
  
• A High-Touch, Operator-Led Model
  Kindleworth’s approach is built around execution. The firm brings in experienced operators to help design and run new businesses, allowing lawyers to stay focused on their clients. This hands-on support is key in getting firms off the ground and functioning effectively.
  
  
• The Role of Private Capital and Technology
  Access to funding and improvements in legal technology are making it easier to launch a firm than in the past. James discusses how these factors are reducing some of the traditional barriers and giving founders more flexibility in how they structure and grow their businesses.
  
  
• A “Planets Aligning” Moment for New Firm Creation
  James describes the current market as a convergence of several forces. Changes in firm structure, the availability of capital, and advances in technology are all contributing to an environment where more lawyers are considering building something of their own.

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About the Podcast:
On The Future Is Bright, Howard Rosenberg and Chris Batz engage with thought-provoking C-suite executives and leaders from corporations, professional service firms, and the global legal industry. Each episode uncovers insights on leadership, innovation, and the evolving dynamics of the modern professional landscape.

You can subscribe to The Future is Bright Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and PodBean.