Building an 80-Person Personal Injury Law Firm That Private Equity Wants (Ep. 189)
On this episode of The Lawyer Millionaire, host Darren Wurz interviews Howard Ankin, founding partner of Ankin Law in Chicago. Howard shares how he grew his practice into a firm with 26 attorneys and more than 80 team members. He discusses the challenges of scaling a law firm, competing against national firms, investing in technology and AI, managing unpredictable cash flow, and preparing for an evolving legal marketplace.
Darren and Howard discuss:
- Why growing a law firm changes the role of the owner.
- Effective marketing means securing the right opportunities.
- Referral remain a powerful source of new business.
- How Ankin Law uses technology and AI to improve client outcomes.
- Why it is important for leaders to understand different generations.
Resources:
- Profit from the Core: A Return to Growth in Turbulent Times by Chris Zook with James Allen (Book)
- Law Firm Financial Reporting Template Pack (Exclusive content)
- Law Firm Profitability Assessment
- How to Calculate Your Law Firm Tax Reserve
- Get your Free Law Firm Audit
- Law Firm Valuation Tool
- Download the Client Attraction Playbook
Connect with Darren Wurz:
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- The Lawyer Millionaire Website
- LinkedIn: Darren P. Wurz
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Connect with Howard Ankin:
- Linkedin: Howard Ankin
- Website: Ankin Law
About Howard Ankin:
Howard Ankin is a third-generation attorney who has built lifelong connections with many of his clients, some of whom he’s known since childhood. These clients are often the descendants of individuals who were represented by his father and grandfather, creating a legacy of trust and commitment. Many recall seeing Howard as a young boy accompanying his father to the court during school breaks, where his passion for justice and the law was deeply ingrained from an early age.
Today, Howard is at the helm of Ankin Law, a firm he co-founded with his father, Paul B. Ankin, in March 1997. Over the years, the firm has grown under its leadership, specializing in personal injury, workers’ compensation, trucking litigation, wrongful death, social security disability, and both criminal and civil litigation. Howard’s dedication to his clients and his relentless pursuit of justice continue the proud Ankin family tradition of providing exceptional legal support.
In just his third year of practice, Howard achieved a $1,000,000 recovery for his client in Latta vs. Village Green Associates—a testament to his skill and determination. Today, his record is filled with numerous legal victories, but what Howard values most is the stability and hope he brings to his clients by securing their livelihoods through his legal expertise. Howard is committed to representing his clients not just as an attorney, but as a trusted advisor and friend. He is known for providing quality referrals for legal matters beyond his practice areas, ensuring his clients receive the best possible guidance. His dedication to Ankin Law is evident every day, as families across Chicago and Illinois continue to seek the firm’s counsel at every stage of their lives.
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