In this blog written by Tim McKey, CEO of  Vista Consulting, he explains how contingency fee law firms can finish the year strong and take actions to start the next year even stronger.

As a business owner, I know the end of the year brings a unique rhythm. For law firm owners, it’s a time of intense focus as you push to close out cases and meet year-end goals. But just as importantly, it’s a moment to reflect and intentionally shape the path forward. The way you close the year has a direct impact on your firm’s momentum and results for the year ahead. How can you set the stage for sustainable growth and clarity next year?

Revisit Your Firm’s Vision and Mission

A strong finish and start both begin with purpose. Take the time to review or create your firm’s vision and mission. Does everyone in your firm know where you want to go and how you plan to get there? This foundational step aligns your leadership and team, providing a North Star for every decision.

Analyze Performance and Attitude Within Your Team

Before planning for the future, look closely at your team from top down. Perform a performance and attitude analysis for each key team member. Are they in the right role? Do they have the mindset and skillset to move your firm forward? Make adjustments now if needed; don’t let unresolved issues carry into the new year.

Review Your Processes in Every Area

Examine each core process in your functional areas: Intake, Case Management, Accounting, Financial and Operational Reporting, Human Resources, Client Relations, even your Accountability Systems. Break down each workflow with a simple question: Is this working as intended? If not, adjust before operational frustrations or hindrances scale up. Consistently effective processes are the backbone of predictable results.

Master Your Financials: Budget Review and Creation

A thorough look at your firm’s current budget versus actuals is non-negotiable. If you don’t have a budget yet, now is the time to create one. Take a line-by-line approach: what has changed this year, what will change next year, and how will those changes impact your finances? Use these insights to create a practical budget for the coming year…one that reflects planned investments and needed adjustments.

Meet with Intention: Consistent Agendas and Team Reviews

Schedule regular team meetings with clear, prepared agendas. Use these sessions to review the firm’s full-year history, discuss what worked, what didn’t, and collaboratively chart adjustments or new directions. These meetings shouldn’t be just a formality or box to check; they’re an opportunity to bring your team into the planning and problem-solving process so everyone is aligned and on board.

Good Plans, Well Implemented and Tracked

A great plan is only as good as its implementation and measurement. What truly moves successful law firms forward is a good plan, well implemented, and, critically, well tracked. Put systems in place to monitor progress, revisit goals, and be willing to adjust as you go.

The transition from one year to the next is so much more than a calendar milestone. It’s your chance to clarify your firm’s vision, optimize your team and systems, and lay the foundations for sustainable success. Reflect with purpose, plan with focus, and implement with discipline. That’s how you finish strong and start even stronger.

Learn More About Law Firm Planning and Growth

Looking to gain more insights so you can finish the year strong?

Read our blog “Using the 3 P’s: Preparation, Planning, and Proactivity for Your Firm” to discover the importance of preparing and planning now so you can kick off the new year with a strong start.