Episode #17
MSOs: The Next Law Firm Frontier
In this series from Slarskey LLC, Partner Evan Fried explores cutting-edge issues in complex commercial litigation, law firm finance, and risk-based legal strategy. In today’s episode, “MSOs: The Next Law Firm Frontier,” Evan is joined by John Fitzgerald, Partner at Citrin Cooperman, and Reuben Gottlieb, Managing Director at Marc S. Gottlieb CPA, for an in-depth discussion of the rapidly evolving MSO (Management Services Organization) landscape and its implications for law firms. The conversation covers: What MSOs are and how they’re transforming law firm ownership, outside investment, and succession planning—particularly in markets where only lawyers can own law firms Key drivers behind the MSO trend: technology costs, AI investments, succession, liquidity, and the pressure to scale Comparisons with accounting firm M&A, valuations, and recurring vs. contingency-based revenue models Execution risks and regulatory challenges, including evolving state rules like Model Rule 5.4 and cross-jurisdictional complications The realities and future of private equity in law, including cultural changes, integration challenges, and whether law firms deliver the returns PE investors expect Predictions for the next decade: increased consolidation in the midsize legal market, fee calculation disputes, and the mounting need for capital as the profession evolves Whether you’re a law firm leader, investor, accountant, or professional navigating the intersection of law and finance, this episode delivers practical insights from three experts operating at the forefront of these changes. Resources: Learn more about Citrin Cooperman here Explore Marc S. Gottlieb CPA here Discover Slarskey LLC here Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes on the evolving landscape of risk-based litigation and the business of law.
