The Free Lawyer Assessment
Measuring Your Professional Freedom
How to complete this assessment
This assessment evaluates where you stand on your journey toward professional freedom as a lawyer. Based on Gary Miles' Free Lawyer Framework and four decades of legal practice experience, this tool measures three critical dimensions of a fulfilling legal career: Internal Authority, Sustainable Excellence, and Authentic Practice. For each statement, rate yourself on a scale from 1-10. Where 1-3 = Rarely/Almost Never True, 4-6 = Sometimes/Moderately True, 7-9 = Often/Mostly True, and 10 = Always/Completely True. Answer honestly based on your current reality, not where you wish to be.
Internal Authority
Operating from confidence and competence rather than external validation. Rate yourself on a scale from 1-10. 1 = Rarely True and 10 = Always/Completely True.
I trust my professional judgment without constantly second-guessing myself.
My sense of professional worth comes from my preparation and competence, not others' approval.
When receiving criticism, I can evaluate it objectively without feeling personally attacked.
I maintain my confidence even when judges or opposing counsel are critical.
My professional identity isn't dependent on winning every case or being perfect.
I can admit mistakes or gaps in knowledge without feeling like a fraud.
I set appropriate boundaries with clients without fear of losing their respect.
When I face setbacks, I view them as learning opportunities rather than personal failures.
I can say "no" to requests that don't align with my priorities without excessive guilt.
My professional confidence remains steady regardless of my most recent outcome.
Internal Authority Subtotal
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Sustainable Excellence
Maintaining peak performance without sacrificing well-being. Rate yourself on a scale from 1-10. 1 = Rarely True and 10 = Always/Completely True.
I maintain consistent energy levels throughout my workday.
I can deliver high-quality work without perfectionist paralysis.
I have clear systems that allow me to work efficiently rather than frantically.
I take regular breaks and maintain boundaries around work hours.
I can be fully present in my personal life without work constantly intruding.
I sleep well without ruminating about cases or client issues.
I can handle high-pressure situations without excessive anxiety.
My practice has systems that continue functioning when I'm unavailable.
I can disconnect from work (email, calls) during designated personal time.
I practice law from a place of strength and clarity, not desperation or fear.
Sustainable Excellence Subtotal
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Authentic Practice
Aligning your work with your values and priorities. Rate yourself on a scale from 1-10. 1 = Rarely True and 10 = Always/Completely True.
My practice reflects my personal values and priorities.
I genuinely enjoy the majority of my work.
I work with clients who respect me and value my expertise.
I practice in areas that intellectually engage and challenge me.
My work schedule allows time for what matters most outside of law.
I feel like I'm making a meaningful impact through my legal work.
I have autonomy and control over how I structure my practice.
My professional relationships are authentic rather than purely transactional.
My practice supports rather than conflicts with my family commitments.
When I envision my future, I see myself thriving in legal practice.
Authentic Practice Subtotal
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Your Free Lawyer Score
Internal Authority
Sustainable Excellence
Authentic Practice
Total Assessment Score
Submit this form to get an action plan based on your Free Lawyer Assessment score.
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