Long before a case is opened or a strategy is outlined, the foundation at Capes Sokol is already in place: Relationships come first.
Attorneys work across practice areas, pulling from a deep bench of experience to better serve both clients and one another.
“We built our firm around a collaborative environment,” says Douglas Dove, managing shareholder at Capes Sokol. “We’ve focused on investing in our team and growing in a way that allows us to continue providing the high level of service our clients expect.”
Clients often notice that difference. Attorneys stay closely connected over time, building relationships that often span years and even decades. Associates are brought into conversations early, gaining a clear understanding of each client’s goals, priorities, and the nuances that matter most.
A relationship-first philosophy explains how the firm operates at every level. “Once a relationship is established, you’re not just working with an attorney in a transactional way,” says Andrea Hawkins, marketing director at Capes Sokol. “There’s a real effort to make sure everyone involved understands the client, the case, and what matters to them.”
Inside the firm, that same level of connection drives how work gets done. Attorneys collaborate across practice areas, bringing together diverse perspectives to deliver more comprehensive solutions. The environment is built on communication, mentorship, and a shared investment in each other’s success.
The Difference Between Growth and the Right Growth
Over the past 25 years, Capes Sokol has expanded its practice areas with intention. Growth across business and real estate, intellectual property, litigation, and, more recently, family law has been driven by client needs.
“It’s never growth just for the sake of growth,” Dove says. “It starts with our clients. When we see consistent demand or an opportunity that complements the work we already do, that’s when it makes sense to expand.”
Equally important is bringing in the right people to support that growth. The firm prioritizes attorneys who bring strong expertise but also align with its collaborative culture. “Skills and experience matter, but cultural fit is just as important,” Dove says. “The practice has to make sense within how we work together and serve our clients.”
Even as the firm has grown, its culture has remained constant.
The Culture Question That Every Growing Firm Faces
As firms grow, culture can easily shift. At Capes Sokol, protecting it is part of the strategy.
“Growth can undoubtedly change a firm and its culture if you’re not careful. So for us, it has never been about growing as fast as possible—it’s been about smart growth.” Dove says.
Interaction across the firm happens naturally. Attorneys connect on a regular basis, exchange ideas, and collaborate across disciplines. Open communication and accessibility across teams help keep teams aligned and engaged.
It is a culture where people know each other, support each other, and work together toward shared outcomes.
Where Capes Sokol Goes From Here
Reaching 25 years is a significant milestone, one that reflects the firm’s history while pointing toward what’s next.
“As we look to the next chapter, our priorities are our people, our clients, and how we operate as a business,” Dove says.
Developing the next generation of attorneys and leaders remains a key focus, supported by succession planning and mentorship. The firm also continues to explore opportunities for expansion that align with client needs.
Technology and innovation are playing an increasingly important role. Advancements in areas such as AI and knowledge management are shaping how the firm operates and delivers services.
“The business of law is changing,” Dove says. “The firms that are willing to adapt, invest in technology, and improve how they deliver services are going to be in a much stronger position long term.”
Values That Have Lasted 25 Years
Twenty-five years in, Capes Sokol reflects meaningful progress, strong client relationships, and a culture built around its people. The milestone marks an opportunity to recognize that growth while reinforcing the principles that continue to guide the firm: collaboration, a focus on people, and a belief that long-term success is earned through doing the work the right way.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Capes Sokol. To learn more about Capes Sokol’s history, practice areas, and ongoing evolution, visit capessokol.com.
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