The client psychology when it comes to lawyers is that clients are looking for successful lawyers because they believe that will give them the best chance of success with whatever they have tasked the lawyer/s. One way for lawyers to 'advertise' their success is by having offices in big high rise buildings with huge reception areas with big open (wasted) spaces and spectacular views. Somewhat counter intuitive as clients also do not want to fund the luxury, but in the end the message of success is more important.
I agree that doing well for clients and for shareholders are rather synergistic and complimentary than a conflict of interest.
It will be interesting to see whether a rapidly falling share price will negatively affect this all important message of success for a lawyers firm and therefore their ability to retain and attract clients...it could become a downward spiral
