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www.canadianlawyermag.com 15 Stringam Law's bold evolution brings large-firm infrastructure to smaller communities Redefining regional law in Western Canada ON A playing field dominated by tradition, Stringam Law is charting a new course. Under the leadership of CEO Kurt Schlachter, KC, the firm is expanding its footprint across Western Canada and embracing a vision that is as ambitious as it is grounded. "We blend the sophistication of Big Law with the agility and client focus of a community-based practice," Schlachter says. "What distinguishes us is our insis- tence on being in smaller centres and maintaining a deep connection to our communities." Strategic growth with community at the core Stringam's recent success is no accident. The firm's momentum is driven by three pillars: a deliberate M&A strategy combining organic growth with targeted mergers; a modern, scal- able management structure; and a team of lawyers deeply invested in its vision and culture. Becoming a leading regional firm neces- sitates expansion into new markets. Two Saskatchewan offices are up and running, and movement into British Columbia for 2026 is in the works. The firm also continues to expand its footprint in its homebase of Alberta, including into Calgary, which Schlachter calls "a bold move." "We've deliberately stayed outside of the major metropolitan centres but are excited to try our model in a bigger market," Schlachter says, adding that Stringam's growth isn't limited to geography. COMMUNITY The firm is doubling down on core practice areas – business law, real estate, litigation, and family law – while eyeing expansion into agri- business, intellectual property, and tax. The strategy is intentionally flexible, allowing the firm to identify opportunities within the niche of what they do and do well, while dialling into the needs of the communities they're entering. "This allows us to expand, improve our offering, and continue to attract high-calibre clients and top-tier talent internally as well," Schlachter explains. Attracting and growing top talent Historically speaking, regional-based firms in smaller markets were more of a back-up plan than a top choice for new lawyers. But with more seeking Stringam out from the start, the firm is capitalizing on this interest. "We make an effort to get in front of law students, cultivate interest, and make sure they know our story," Schlachter says, adding that the firm fosters an open-minded approach. It's also become a first-choice desti- nation for lateral hires seeking balanced life- styles, meaningful community connections, and professional growth. "Whether they come aboard straight out of law school or parachute in later in their careers, at the end of the day fit is based on alignment with our core values and vision." Another standout feature is Stringam's approach to talent. The firm invests heavily in its people, with every lawyer receiving a tailored "success plan" – with annual goals, mid-year check-ins, and a flex budget for promotion and professional development. Supported by advanced analytics and client feedback, the goal is to prepare lawyers for partnership and foster a business mindset from the outset. "We flipped the traditional performance review structure: it's all about business devel- opment with an HR touchpoint instead of the other way around," Schlachter explains. "Most firms don't pull back the curtain until a lawyer is ready to step up to partnership, but we want early exposure. It's unique to us and a strong retention tool." Tied to the operational side is a commit- ment to keep on the leading edge of technology, from AI integrations to state-of-the-art video conferencing that enhances accessibility for clients and team members alike. Robust internal communications are especially critical in maintaining Stringam's culture and agility across a widening geographic spread. This avoids fragmentation while allowing Stringam to redefine what a large law firm can be in smaller communities, enhancing client experience and work-life balance for lawyers. "The challenge is keeping all balls in the air, maintaining the momentum we have and not losing sight of the overall objective here," Schlachter says. "On the flip side, that's also a tremendous opportunity." A new vision of legal practice Stringam's story is rooted in community, driven by innovation, and powered by a belief that regional firms can lead the way in rede- fining legal practice for the next generation. "You have to have a lot of faith, a lot of resil- ience, and a lot of confidence in your goals," Schlachter reflects. "We could have just main- tained what we had before, but our partnership had a vision beyond that. Being empowered to execute it is a privilege and an adventure." Brought to you by Kurt Schlachter was appointed Stringam Law's first CEO in January of 2023. He has broad exposure to several practice areas. SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE