After starting a business straight out of high school, Ankurpreet Singh was thrust into a costly commercial conflict. But rather than shy away from legal disputes, the experience lit a spark inside him.
What if he could help others get fair, affordable and honest legal advice?
To make his legal practice dream a reality, Ankurpreet enrolled in the College of Law’s LPMC – where he bolstered his business competence and confidence.
Our thanks to Ankurpreet for sharing his story.
From lease dispute to law degree
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial streak. In fact, I started my own business straight out of high school. But when it didn’t work out, I found myself up against a costly commercial lease dispute – where I could have been sued for $200,000.
That was a turning point in my life and career. I said to myself: What can I do to prevent others from getting stuck in a similar situation?
I had first-hand experience of the legal pain points that small businesses go through. I could guide them through the proper processes to avoid these types of trouble entirely.
So I enrolled at Charles Darwin University where I completed my law degree at the end of 2019.
And thankfully, with the College of Law, I could do my PLT during my final semester. They had plenty of intake dates so I could start when I was ready – and get a head start professionally.
Lessons learned and a vision brought into focus
When it came to my legal career, I didn’t want a traditional job working at a top-tier firm. I wanted more flexibility and didn’t want to do billable hours.
I began practising law at TAI Lawyers where I learned a lot. I sharpened my marketing skills, connected with clients and built my reputation in the community.
We offered fixed costs, so clients knew exactly what to expect and what the fee covered. I valued that approach and it’s shaped my values and outlook ever since.
Before long, I was almost ready to start my own practice – but I first needed to bolster my business skills. In late 2022, I enrolled in the LPMC with the College.
The LPMC: An opportunity, not just an obligation
I thought the LPMC was simply a statutory requirement – something I needed to tick off to start my own firm.
But I really enjoyed the entire experience. It was an opportunity to learn from like-minded professionals and gain practical business skills.
The presenters brought deep industry expertise and the course material was highly practice-oriented. After each module, I could see that their real-world insights would inform how I ran my own practice.
For example, the risk management module was presented by an insurance industry professional. So I learned real-world tips on how to develop risk management checks and comply with the Uniform Law.
The focus on collaboration was a plus too. My course peers all had similar professional goals – so we connected in group activities, discussed common issues and shared relatable ideas.
And when I required extra support, Leonie Green – the course facilitator – was more than happy to accommodate my needs as a practising lawyer. I had a court appearance scheduled during the course and she made arrangements for me to complete modules later.
Building out my business skills
The marketing module emphasised the importance of clearly identifying your target market and then focusing on specific channels.
I had some marketing skills before, but this module taught me how to reach the right people in the right way.
Similarly, I really valued the module on legal technology. It highlighted the efficiency gains of effective practice management software. I can use tools like DocuSign and AI integrations to save me hours of admin work – particularly when it comes to invoicing.
For the final assessment, we designed a detailed business plan which I continue to reference because it was so practical. It got me to think about and solve questions like:
- How will I keep track of my finances?
- What strategies can I use to attract new clients?
- How will I grow my revenue next financial year?
I’m much more organised and future-focused now. I’ve learned how to budget and grow business profitability. I’ve gained the skills, confidence and qualification I needed to run my own practice.
And in January 2023, my firm Courtesy Legal was born. To provide fair, affordable and honest legal advice.
It’s in the name
I want to build a lasting reputation within the legal industry. By doing quality work and being respectful to everyone – especially to my opposing counsel.
That approach is core to my vision for my practice. It’s in the name: Courtesy Legal. Old-fashioned common courtesy defines my business philosophy. Because a little bit of basic courtesy goes a long way in this industry.
I’m upfront and honest with my clients. I take time to explain the matter, assess their chances and walk them through their options to get the results they need.
And after the LPMC’s marketing module, I can see how that approach will steadily grow my firm through specialised marketing strategies, returning clients and word of mouth.
Common courtesy and respect – it’s good for my clients and my reputation. And it’s even better for my business.
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