Forming a law firm partnership with attorneys you like and trust may seem like a great move, but is it really?

In Episode 18 of Power 5, host Nick Augustine breaks down the real-world risks and consequences lawyers face when entering new partnerships without asking the hard questions.

We’ve all seen it before: Friends in the legal community get excited about leaving their firms and building something new together. They assume each partner brings value, clients, and cash flow. But then, reality hits. Books of business were exaggerated. Roles and responsibilities were unclear. And as the excitement wears off, dysfunction sets in. What follows is a painful lesson: partnership dissolution, damaged relationships, and lost professional credibility.

Nick explains why these outcomes happen, what attorneys often overlook, and how to avoid repeating these mistakes.

This episode dives into:

• The common pitfalls when lawyers form partnerships based on personal rapport instead of business planning
• Why verifying books of business and client revenue is non-negotiable
• How to structure a firm with clear roles, expectations, and contingency plans
• The importance of aligning on vision, values, and business goals—not just personalities
• Action steps to take before you sign any agreement

If you’re a lawyer thinking about partnering with a friend or colleague, or you’ve already been through a failed partnership, this episode is for you.

Whether you’re a solo practitioner or a seasoned firm owner, the insights in this episode will help you approach partnerships with clarity, caution, and strategy. Tune in now and learn how to form smarter, stronger partnerships—before it’s too late.