The Network of Leading Law Firms is a non-profit international organization based in Michigan. The NLLF's members are general practice law firms who serve their clients wherever located.

The purpose of the NLLF is to help its members better serve their clients. NLLF members use this network as a referral opportunity when their clients need broader geographical representation. Another purpose of the NLLF is to provide a non-competitive environment for lawyers within member firms to share valuable professional information regarding the global practice of law. The NLLF also focuses on sharing information and strategies regarding the effective management of law firms regardless of their location. Members also establish a relationship which allows the referral of business between members to better serve their clients.

The Network of Leading Law Firms limits its membership. Each member firm serves a defined geographical area. By designating territories in this manner, firms are assured that they are the primary NLLF member serving the needs of other members in that jurisdiction. Each member of the Network of Leading Law Firms is a well established law firm that has met the specific and strict qualifications of membership.

The NLLF has an annual meeting and a mid-year meeting each year. The NLLF meetings provide a forum for members to share their expertise and knowledge regarding the profession, as well as network with lawyers and administrators from member firms. The networking opportunities have solidified the professional relationships formed when firms join the Network of Leading Law Firms. The annual meeting, as well as the mid-year meeting, have an educational element focusing on the newest challenges facing the profession, trends, client relations, and many other management topics essential to maintaining a successful firm in today's environment. It also contains a visioning session, which allows members to share their vision of the future of the practice of law and what can be done to prepare for it.

NLLF members have access to an elaborate library regarding the legal profession. Each year this library grows with new material developed for the Network of Leading Law Firms and is only accessible to members.

Austin G. Anderson is the President, and Sandra J. Boyer is the Executive Vice-President of the Network of Leading Law Firms. The NLLF is served by a full time administrative staff. This team, located in Michigan, provides continuing and effective management, allowing the members to focus on the NLLF relationship, rather than on administrative details. The needs of the members, whether access to research material, law practice management information, extended practice area support, or simple questions that need answering are addressed immediately and effectively. There is also an active Advisory Board consisting of 10 members. The Advisory Board insures the NLLF is consistently meeting the needs of its members, while helping to develop and implement a road map for the future. All members participate in the Network of Leading Law Firms Annual Business Meeting, providing them the opportunity to help chart the course of the NLLF.

Watching the trust and respect develop among the partners and administrators in member firms is a rewarding and exciting experience. That culture will be kept intact as the NLLF increases its members and moves forward.