JoAnn Hathaway is a seasoned legal practice and risk management advisor with deep experience supporting law firms of all sizes.

Professional Background

She developed and launched the practice management department for the State Bar of Michigan (SBM), where she served as Practice Management Advisor for 20 years, providing guidance to more than 45,000 members and staff. JoAnn has conducted over one hundred law firm consultations for reinsurance carriers, attorney discipline boards, and by voluntary request, and cohosted SBM’s On Balance podcast through Legal Talk Network for many years.

Expertise and Leadership

JoAnn has developed practical technology expertise that helps streamline firm operations. She has served on many committees and delivery boards within the American Bar Association (ABA) Law Practice Division and currently serves on the Board of ABA TECHSHOW 2027. She holds the designations of Registered Professional Liability Underwriter (RPLU) and Cyber Professional Liability Practitioner (CPLP) through the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS), reflecting advanced knowledge of professional liability risk, insurance coverage, and cyber liability exposures.

Author and Coach

JoAnn is the author of Legal Malpractice Insurance in One Hour for Lawyers, published by the ABA. She currently coaches solo and small firm attorneys through social networks, combining legal industry expertise, technology fluency, and professional liability insight to foster efficient and resilient practices.