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Let’s walk through some of our favorite law firm name ideas. Here are over 200 to choose from.
Integrating the partners’ names into your law firm name is an absolutely classic choice, and if that’s the way you’re leaning, you’ll be poised to create a professional image for your firm. Here are some of our favorite ways to do so; find an approach you like, integrate your partners’ names, and you’ll be ready to go.
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If you’re starting a new law firm, then coming up with law firm names is probably high on your to-do list. But for a lot of small business owners, that process can feel overwhelming. Maybe the creative juices just aren’t flowing, or you thought of a name but found that it’s already been claimed by someone else.
Thankfully, help is here. In this guide, we offer guidance on how to create the perfect law firm name. Or if you’re itching to get started, we’ve also assembled a list of over 200 of our favorite law firm name ideas, including:
One quick note before we continue: just because we’ve included a particular law firm business name on this list doesn’t guarantee that it’s available for use in your state. If you like one of these ready-to-use names, please do your homework to check that it’s available (we explain how later on). Checking name availability is ultimately your responsibility.
Before you come up with a law firm name, there are some essential considerations to make. Ideally, your name should comply with bar association rules, be clear and professional, and help create a memorable brand.
The American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct established a lot of precedents for business names for law firms, and a lot of states adopted these law firm naming rules in their jurisdictions. Here are some of the precedents the rules established:
In short, your law firm’s name cannot be misleading. You also need to check with your state bar association’s naming rules for any location-specific rules, as state laws can vary. For example, some states let law firms create trade names (a name that’s different from your legal business name), but other states like Ohio and New York do not.
While it can feel like a lot of work to check these rules, it’s essential for creating a name that’s viable for your new firm.
When selecting a name for your law firm, prioritizing clarity and professionalism is paramount. A clear and professional name immediately conveys the nature of your practice, instills confidence, and establishes a sense of reliability among potential clients. To achieve this, you might incorporate the last names of your founding or principal partners (a common but very viable option in the legal industry).
To be clear, avoid using jargon, slang, or ambiguous terms that might confuse your audience or detract from the firm’s credibility. Furthermore, ensure that the name is straightforward and easy to understand, even for those with little to no legal knowledge. This can help in situations where your firm’s name is the first point of contact for individuals seeking legal assistance. For example, “Smith & Doe Legal Partners” immediately informs clients who are behind the firm and suggests a partnership structure, promoting both clarity and professionalism.
Creating a memorable name is crucial for establishing strong branding for your law firm. A memorable name helps in differentiating your firm from competitors and aids in word-of-mouth marketing.
To craft a name that sticks in people’s minds, try to keep things brief, unique, and relevant. Shorter names are often easier to recall, while uniqueness can prevent confusion with other firms. That said, ensure that your strive for uniqueness does not compromise professionalism. Incorporating elements that reflect your firm’s specialization can also enhance memorability and branding; for example, “Apex Intellectual Property Law” clearly indicates a focus on intellectual property issues.
As you’re working, think about how your firm’s name will look on marketing materials, online platforms, and legal documents. The name should be versatile enough to fit various contexts while maintaining its distinctiveness and professionalism. Consistency in using your firm’s name across all platforms will further reinforce memorability and strengthen your brand identity.
In some jurisdictions, your law firm’s name doesn’t necessarily have to follow the “Partner & Partner” name approach. You can choose something less traditional, too. Here are some of our favorite catchy law firm names.
If you want to advertise that your law firm services a particular area, you might consider integrating your city or county (or even a local landmark) in your business name. Here are some of our favorite ways to do that.
Depending on your industry, you might be able to pick a funny name for your firm. Needing a lawyer can be stressful for many people, so making your soon-to-be customers laugh can be a great way to set them at ease. Here are some of our favorites.
If you’re focusing on a specific aspect of law, you might decide to have a name that’s industry-specific. Here are some of our favorite ideas.
If you’d rather create your own unique name, you’ll have some key steps to follow. Here’s how to come up with a successful name.
When brainstorming names for your law firm, the first step is to have a crystal-clear understanding of your legal niche. Your firm’s name should be a reflection of your specialization — whether that’s corporate law, criminal defense, family law, or another area. It’s your brand’s unique selling proposition. This focus not only helps in attracting your ideal clients but also sets the tone for your brand identity.
For instance, if your firm specializes in environmental law, incorporating words related to nature or sustainability can make your firm instantly recognizable to clients seeking those services. It’s about making your firm’s area of expertise unmistakably clear right from the get-go.
The traditional method of naming law firms involves using the last names of the key partners. This approach has stood the test of time for good reason — it’s direct, professional, and it personalizes your brand.
However, modern variations are emerging. If you’re looking to stick with tradition but still want a more modern law firm name, consider abbreviations, initials, or even a mix of names and legal keywords that resonate with your firm’s values and services. For example, instead of “Smith, Johnson, & Doe,” you might opt for “SJ&D Legal Partners” or “SmithJD Law.” The goal is to maintain the essence of the traditional format while ensuring your firm’s name is accessible and memorable.
Adding descriptive words or values to your law firm’s name can significantly enhance its appeal and clarity. Words like “Justice,” “Advocate,” or “Partners” not only highlight your firm’s focus but also your ethos and what clients can expect when they choose you. For instance, “Advocate Family Law” suggests a firm that not only specializes in family law but also strongly represents and supports their clients’ interests.
When selecting these descriptors, think about the message you want to convey. Do you want to emphasize your firm’s commitment to justice? Its collaborative nature? Or perhaps its innovative approach to legal services? Choose words that resonate with your firm’s mission and values, making sure they complement the name rather than complicate it. This strategy helps in crafting a name that’s both meaningful and impactful, ensuring your firm stands out in the minds of potential clients.
It’s your responsibility to ensure that your name doesn’t infringe on any protected names before you get going. To do that, you’ll need to run a trademark search with the United States Patent and Trademark Search to ensure that you’re not infringing on federally protected trademarks.
You should also run a business name search on your state’s business website (usually the Secretary of State) because your state protects the names of registered businesses (LLCs, corporations, etc.) for exclusive use. In a similar vein, you should check your state trademark database. For more information about our business name checker, see our definition page.
If you run these searches and a similar name pops up, you’ll probably need to amend your name. If not, then it’s probably good to use.
After you’ve finally settled on a name, you’ve done a lot of work. You’d hate for all that work to go to waste, so it’s time to make good use of it by protecting your name, building your business website, and building your law firm’s brand.
Once you’ve landed on the perfect name for your law firm, the next critical step is to ensure it’s legally available and protected. If you haven’t already, conducting a comprehensive trademark search is essential to avoid potential legal battles and ensure your name isn’t already in use or too similar to existing trademarks.
Registering a trademark can be an intricate process, so consider consulting with a trademark attorney to navigate the complexities. Upon confirming the uniqueness of your firm’s name, proceed with trademark registration to protect your brand identity. Securing a trademark solidifies your legal claim to the name, preventing others from using it and potentially confusing your clients.
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is non-negotiable. Start by registering a domain name that matches or closely resembles your law firm’s name. This is crucial for brand consistency and making it easy for clients to find you online.
When choosing a domain, opt for a .com if available, as it’s the most recognized and trusted domain suffix. Following domain registration (which we can help with), develop a professional website that reflects your firm’s brand and values. Ensure it’s user-friendly, mobile-responsive, and optimized for search engines to enhance your visibility online.
Additionally, establish profiles on relevant social media platforms and legal directories to broaden your digital footprint and engage with potential clients. If you can, get handles that match your name so you’re easy to find and have a consistent brand presence. Find out more about domain name definition.
With your legal and digital foundations in place, it’s time to focus on marketing your new law firm name. Start by announcing the launch of your firm through a press release distributed to local media and industry publications. This can generate initial buzz and awareness.
When possible, leverage social media platforms to share your firm’s story, values, and the services you offer, engaging with your community to build relationships. Email marketing can help announce your launch, or you could even consider hosting an open house or attending networking events to introduce your firm to the local business community personally.
Content marketing can be especially valuable for a law firm, so consider publishing free-to-access blog posts and articles related to your legal niche. Establishing your firm as a thought leader in your industry can create future clients out of readers who come to your site for insight and advice. See content marketing definition.
No matter what you do, try to keep things consistent so your brand voice gains a reputation for excellence and trustworthiness.
Naming your law firm without using your personal name can offer several strategic advantages. This approach is becoming increasingly popular for firms looking to stand out in a crowded market. Here are five reasons to consider this naming strategy:
Using a name that doesn’t include the names of the partners allows for greater flexibility as your firm grows and evolves. It can accommodate changes in partnership without requiring a name change, which can be costly and diminish brand recognition. A name that’s not tied to specific individuals also makes it easier to expand, merge, or rebrand as your firm’s goals and focus areas develop over time.
Names that don’t follow the traditional surname format have a unique opportunity to be more memorable and engaging to potential clients. A creative or descriptive name can convey your firm’s ethos, specialty, or value proposition directly, making it stick in the minds of those who hear it. This memorability can significantly enhance marketing efforts, making it easier to establish a strong brand identity.
A name that doesn’t center around one or a few individuals can foster a sense of inclusivity and team unity. It suggests that the firm values the contributions of all its members, not just the partners. This can be particularly appealing to prospective clients and employees who value collaboration and collective expertise.
In a sector where many firms traditionally use partner names, opting for a different naming convention can set your firm apart. A distinctive name can help your firm stand out in a saturated market, attracting attention and making it easier for clients to remember and recommend your services. This differentiation is crucial for new firms trying to establish a foothold or for any firm looking to carve out a niche.
A non-traditional name opens up avenues for richer brand storytelling. You can choose a name that reflects the firm’s mission, the types of clients you serve, or the outcomes you aim to achieve. This can make your marketing more relatable and impactful, as potential clients can quickly understand what your firm stands for and how it aligns with their needs. Effective storytelling can enhance your firm’s emotional appeal, making it more attractive to clients who share your values.
Opting not to use partner names in your law firm’s title is a strategic decision that can influence your firm’s branding, growth, and client relations. This approach requires thoughtful consideration and creativity, but it can pay off in establishing a strong, flexible, and memorable brand.
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Starting a business is a busy time, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry — ZenBusiness has your back. Whether you need help registering your LLC or corporation, getting a domain name registered, or managing your business with a streamlined app, we can help. We’ll tackle the red tape so you can focus on what you love: building the best law firm in town.
Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.
Written by Team ZenBusiness
ZenBusiness has helped people start, run, and grow over 700,000 dream companies. The editorial team at ZenBusiness has over 20 years of collective small business publishing experience and is composed of business formation experts who are dedicated to empowering and educating entrepreneurs about owning a company.
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