April Collins, the founder of Collins Law, LLC, recently appeared on PILMMA's Grow Your Law Firm podcast with host Ken Hardison. The episode, titled "From Basement Startup to Firm Growth With April Collins," was released on August 7, 2026. PILMMA, the Personal Injury Lawyer Marketing & Management Association, releases new episodes weekly. Collins's participation underscores the importance of mentorship and business education in the legal industry, particularly for solo practitioners and small firm owners aiming to scale.
In the episode, Collins and Hardison explored a range of topics critical to law firm growth: Collins's journey from starting her practice in her basement to purchasing her own office building, overcoming trust barriers to hire more staff and an associate attorney, choosing where to invest income, standing out in a competitive market by embracing uniqueness, prioritizing client service, and adopting AI tools company-wide. These discussions matter because they address common challenges faced by lawyers transitioning from practitioner to business owner. Collins credited PILMMA with significantly developing her business skills over the past several years.
Collins emphasized that a mindset shift was essential. "The mindset is the first thing that I had to change, and to learn to develop into a businesswoman," she said. "I didn't have a business background, I didn't have family members who ever owned big businesses or went to law school, so I had to learn." She noted that Birmingham is a highly competitive market for injury attorneys, making differentiation crucial. "I had to learn to lean into what makes me different instead of shying away from it," Collins said. "I learned that I can find my own strength, my own superpower in who I am, and to use the authenticity that I have to find the people who want to hire me." Her insights are particularly relevant for underrepresented entrepreneurs in law, as Collins leads a Black-owned injury law firm with offices in Birmingham and Madison, Alabama.
Collins encouraged lawyers and business owners to adopt a growth mindset as a first step in expanding their business. "If you have a growth mindset, then you're going to grow," she said. "And if you don't know [how to do something], find somebody that can help you, because what I've learned for the most part in this space, there are people who will help you." This message highlights the value of seeking mentorship and resources, which can be accessed through networks like PILMMA. To listen to the full podcast, visit PILMMA's website or search for "Grow Your Law Firm" on major podcast platforms.
Collins Law, LLC is committed to standing up for those who've been marginalized and feel they don't have a voice, helping victims of car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and other personal injuries. The firm's growth story serves as an example for other law firms seeking to expand while maintaining a client-centered approach. For more information about April Collins, April Collins is featured on the firm's team page, detailing her background and commitment to justice.
