What’s the Best Way to Convince a Firm That I Am Serious about My Geographic Move?

Answer: No matter whether a geographic move is across the country or to a new city within the same state, firms need to be convinced that an attorney has a personal connection and serious interest in the new geographic location. It is of utmost importance that you convey this connection in your cover letter and again in your interviews. The absolute last thing a firm wants is to bring in a new attorney, train this attorney for a few months, and then have the attorney realize that he/she is not happy in the new locale.

Here are some considerations:


Do you have the California Bar? There are states that make it relatively easy to waive into their Bar membership. California is not one of them. A great way to prove your commitment to your move to the West Coast is by taking the CA Bar. This is not an easy test and it's not cheap, so the fact that you have gone through (or are going through) this process demonstrates your resolve.

Some attorneys say they are amenable to sitting for the Bar if they see interest on the part of the firm. This is the wrong way to view the situation. Some firms will not even consider an application if the person does not presently have the Bar. This is more pressing for litigation positions, but can also be true for transactional openings (depending on the firm). No matter your level, if you are truly serious about a move to California, sign up to take the next possible California Bar Examination.

Are you from California or do you have family there? If you are originally from California and seeking to return "home," this is the absolute best reason to provide a firm. Having lived in California before, you have intimate knowledge of what daily life is like in the state and have made an educated decision to return. If you are coming home, most likely you also have family and friends in the area. This enhances your connections to the locale and makes it less likely for you to leave in the short-term.

If California is not your home, but you do have a familial nexus in the state, this is the next best argument. If your parents, a sibling, or close extended family now live in California, this is also a compelling explanation for re-location. Barring this, look for any close friends that live in the state.

Does your significant other have family in California? This explanation can cut both ways. If you are going to use the argument that you are seeking to move to be closer to your partner's family - there is a slight word of caution. If this person is your wife/husband, this is not a problem and is a viable reason for re-location. Essentially, you (as a couple) made a decision to move closer to immediate family. However, if this person is a girlfriend/boyfriend, firms are concerned that should the relationship split, you will want to leave the city. A job search certainly isn't a reason for engagement, but if you say that you are moving to be closer to your fiancé's immediate family, this holds more weight than "girlfriend or boyfriend." If this individual is not close to being a fiancé, you will want to leave your significant other out of the explanation.
 

• See Guidelines on Reciprocity or "Admission On Motion" among the States as per American Bar Association for more information.

Have you visited California? You have never lived in California and do not have any close friends or family in the state. What now? You should at least be able to represent that you have visited the state and, specifically, the desired city to which you wish to re-locate. Express your enthusiasm about the locale, how much you love the city, and that you absolutely see a future for yourself there. On an interview, your desire to move will certainly be a major topic for conversation. Feel free to be specific about why you love the city (the parks and restaurants you enjoy, art galleries or sporting activities, etc.) and, even in what neighborhood you see yourself residing.
 

• See Interviewing Tips for more information

There are, of course, work related reasons why you might want to move to California. Several cities in the Golden State have extremely active markets and you may be confident that having a platform in one of these cities will help you build your practice, originate business, and propel your career as a successful attorney. Please include the work related reasons in your cover and interview. Even so, you will want to find a personal nexus, if possible.
 

• See Top Ten Interview Questions for more information

Let's face it - California is a phenomenal place to live - sunshine, mountains, beach, and wine country. Do you really need a reason? Yes!

Learn why attorneys usually fail law firm phone-screening interviews in this article:
 

• Why Most Attorneys Fail Telephone-Screening Interviews

Explanation aside, taking the CA Bar will speak volumes.
 

About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.