Khanyile S. Nonduduzo, Kanyangale MacDonald, Mthombeni Admire,
Proches G. Cecile
Proches G. Cecile
Abstract
Despite small and medium sized legal firms in Durban, South Africa’s potential to contribute immensely to economic growth such firms have been seized by a myriad of problems which has affected their growth and survival. The main objective of this study was to explore factors impeding growth of small to medium-size legal firms in Durban, South Africa. The study unravelled the nature of challenges experienced by leaders and owner-managers of small to medium-sized legal firms in implementing long-term survival strategies in Durban. Researchers used the interpretivist philosophy where a qualitative research approach was applied to which an explanatory research design. The Higgins 8S Model was the theory that formed hinge of the study. Researchers conducted 14 interviews after reaching saturation with the participants purposively drawn from small and medium legal firms in Durban. Word cloud analysis was used in the producing of thematic themes. In this view, the study found out that various institutional challenges that small to medium-sized legal firms were facing in Durban, South Africa include increased competition, client cost sensitivity, limited resources for investing in new technology and training, and overregulation of practices. The study’s key managerial implication is that small and medium sized law firms must develop client-centric pricing strategies for them to survive. The study recommends that focus on strengthening collaboration within the legal community, leveraging partnerships to share resources, and fostering a culture of resilience to improve adaptability and long-term success