A review of the development of IP firms in
Africa
John Grisham's novel "The Litigators" begins with
the words "The law firm of Finley & Figg referred to
itself as a "boutique firm". This misnomer was
inserted as often as possible into routine conversations, and it
even appeared in print in some of the various schemes hatched by
the partners to solicit business. When used properly, it
implied that Finley & Figg were something above your average
2-bit operation. Boutique, as in small, gifted and expert in
one specialised area." This is a slightly uncharitable
way of describing a boutique firm, particularly when one considers
that this is often the model chosen for the delivery of legal
services in areas such as intellectual property.
