Why I Choose to Work from an Office and not Remotely
People regularly ask me, ‘why do you have this office? A lot of other tax lawyers work remotely.’ Having an office is important to me for a number of reasons, and I can do anything that a remote lawyer can do.
In an era where remote work has become normalized across the legal profession, it is tempting to assume that a lawyer’s physical office is merely a legacy expense. It is not. For clients, the presence of a professional office remains a meaningful indicator of stability, accountability, confidentiality, and seriousness of purpose.
First, a physical office reflects permanence. Clients entrust their tax lawyer with matters that often involve significant financial exposure, reputational risk, or personal stress. A dedicated office signals that the practice is established, invested in infrastructure, and built for the long term. It communicates that the lawyer is not operating casually or transiently, but has committed resources to serving clients in a structured and enduring way. That permanence fosters confidence.
Second, an office enhances professionalism and focus. Legal work demands disciplined attention to complex facts and law. A controlled professional environment reduces distractions and ensures that client meetings occur in a setting designed for serious discussion. The quality of dialogue improves when both lawyer and client are seated across from one another in a confidential, purpose built space rather than navigating the limitations of video calls or informal environments.
Confidentiality is another critical factor. Legal matters frequently involve privileged information, sensitive financial data, and strategic decision making. A secure office environment allows for private meetings, secure document storage, and controlled communications. While remote technology has advanced, it still carries inherent vulnerabilities. A physical office reinforces the safeguards that are central to the solicitor client relationship.
There is also strategic value in in person interaction. Subtle cues in body language, tone, and pacing are often lost in virtual communication. In tax disputes, corporate audits, or complex negotiations, these nuances can shape advice and strategy. Clients benefit when their lawyer can fully assess credibility, stress points, and decision making posture in person. The result is sharper judgment and more tailored counsel.
An office also strengthens accessibility in a practical sense. Clients know where to find their lawyer. They have a professional address for service, correspondence, and formal meetings. When regulators, opposing counsel, or government authorities are involved, a professional office reinforces credibility and standing within the broader legal and regulatory community.
Importantly, maintaining an office is not about resisting technology. Modern practice integrates secure digital communication, virtual meetings when appropriate, and efficient document management systems. The difference is that these tools supplement rather than replace a professional base of operations. Clients receive the flexibility of modern service combined with the reassurance of a stable, established practice.
Ultimately, clients benefit from knowing that their lawyer operates within a structured, accountable, and professional environment. A physical office is not a symbol of tradition for its own sake. It is a practical investment in client confidence, confidentiality, and the disciplined delivery of legal services.
This is not meant to criticize those who choose to work remotely. I am explaining why I personally feel working from an actual office is important. Please also note my new suite number below!
