Many sole practitioners find the practice of law to be lonely and isolating, without the presence of, or even the benefit of the energy of, other lawyers nearby. Some sole practitioners have a general practice to encourage a flow of clients so that financial obligations can be met. A general practice can be more stressful than specialization due to the pressures of staying current in many areas of law.

Lawyers in firms of various sizes can also feel isolated as lawyers hive themselves off from others to focus on their work.