January – Success

Chad Olson, Founder of Legacy Law, believes planning for your future doesn’t have to be stressful. Chad only handles family law issues, and understands that while this is his job, this is also your life and is mindful of that throughout your representation. Learn more about Chad by reading on!

Every business has a story, tell us yours.
Before creating Legacy Law, I, like many graduating attorneys, struggled with the direction of my new career. I was unable to land a job with an established firm, and during the interim of unemployment, I continued to volunteer at Volunteer Lawyer’s Network and Volunteers of America – two separate programs dedicated to providing legal services to those in need.

During my time volunteering, I handled divorce, child custody / support, and estate planning matters for individuals. In helping these individuals, I realized not only was I providing legal services, but creating a deeper connection – a bond which empowered individuals to strengthen themselves and their families, become emotionally stable, and give them the strength and confidence to move into the next chapter of their lives.

It was an experience that shaped the foundation of Legacy Law. I realized that being an attorney is a powerful tool and a tool that, when used wisely, helps shape the future of families for generations to come. It was at this point that Legacy Law was created, and was the point where I wanted to focus solely on helping individuals and families through their often-time most difficult and intimate moments.

You were chosen as this month’s Success Client. Tell us about your most recent Success.
Success is difficult for me to talk about as I believe it is a word unique in meaning, to each individual. For me, success has been about creating stability in families with children. The unintended consequence of divorce and child custody is that, often times, innocent, loving children receive the brunt of their parent’s conflict. It is the most rewarding aspect of family law to create environments where the parents can peacefully move on while also maintaining a loving and nurturing environment for their children. This is something that I strive for in all my cases.

No one likes to brag about their business, but if you HAD TO . . .
When looking at established firms, one characteristic that I noticed to be lacking was the incorporation of modern-day technology such as social media. Because a majority of my practice works with ordinary families and individuals, an aspect of my business that I take liberty to promote is a law firm, which is modern, friendly, and unintimidating. A firm that people can relate to. I often hear from friends and family that calling an attorney was an unnerving experience, mostly because they found attorneys and the practice of law, foreign.

That is why I have tried to shape my firm in a way that makes people feel comfortable beginning with my casual demeanor. While always professional, one won’t often find me fully-suited unless I am going to court. I also created a website that is simplistic, inviting and resource-filled, again with the intention to promote clarity and familiarity. I encourage individuals to send text messages or live-chat with me through my website. Finally, I strive to make the legal experience one in which the person understands. I encourage clients to call when they do not understand something, but to be respectful of my time, as I generally do not bill for time spent helping individuals understand their case.

We learn from our mistakes, especially in business. Give us some words of wisdom.
Be honest with yourself – know what your strengths and weaknesses are. In an attempt to save money, I tried to draft incorporation documents that were flawed due to my inexperience. While it didn’t cost me as I am currently a solo practitioner, after having an experienced attorney draft these documents, I learned that being cheap is a short-sighted solution and one that would have cost my dearly in the long run.

Share the best advice you ever received.
The best piece of advice I received was from a colleague. I was speaking to him about best practices for law firm marketing and he turns to me and says: “The best marketing you can do as a young professional is to do the best work you can, each and every day, for every client. When you go the extra mile for every client, those clients will effectively market your firm for you by referring you and your services to any other family member or friend who requires legal services in the future.”

Describe your perfect day off.
Three criteria for my perfect day: Good food, good company, and good weather. It doesn’t matter what I am doing, or where I am. When all three align, everything always falls in place.

What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I am a second-career attorney. Prior to law, I was a chemist for a pharmaceutical company. I had actually wanted to be a patent law attorney with my background in science, but during mentorship and studying for the patent bar, I realized that for me, a career in patent law would be unrewarding.

Together we are stronger. Tell us something you like about being our client.
An important aspect of being your client that I have enjoyed since the very first day, is that I feel welcome. Ana, Megan, and Ashley are all spot on with how they treat me – kind and respectful, with positive energy.

If you could work anywhere under the sun, where would you choose?
Hawaii. Beautiful scenery, tropical climate, and the serenity of the ocean.

How can people CONNECT with you?
The best way to connect with me is over coffee or a drink. I enjoy meeting new people. My direct number is 651-428-1708.