What’s Your Advice on Trying Out Another Practice Area in My Current Law Firm?

Answer: Before I get to whether you have to leave your firm, I want you to ask yourself why you work in the first place? Obviously, you work in order to support yourself, but why else do you work? Do you work in order to have a lovely office? Do you work to be surrounded by bright and energetic colleagues? Do you work at a Top 20 firm to derive your sense of self-worth (e.g. I really am special because everyone wanted to work at this firm and I got one of the coveted slots.)
 
Only you know the answers to the foregoing, and your answers are important because they will inform your decision in regard to whether or not you should commence a job search. However, I would like to pose other (perhaps more important) questions. Why do you want to make the switch? Do you want to make the switch because you are unhappy with Capital Markets or do you want to make the switch because you know that you really want to do M&A? If it is the former, then it might be better to delve into what it is about Capital Markets that you do not like and learn something about yourself as a practicing attorney. If it is the latter, then you need to see whether it is possible to speak with one of the M&A partners to see whether he could staff you on an upcoming transaction. Often when I make this suggestion to attorneys, I am met with resistance. The resistance sometimes stems from the fact that the attorney is afraid of alienating the "hands that feed him", i.e., the partners with whom the attorney presently works. While it is true that you risk alienation, you can lessen the possibility by first discussing your desire to try other types of corporate work with your current partners.

If you opt to take this route, then you need to stress that while you enjoy your current work and are very grateful for the opportunities that they have given you, you are a new attorney and would like to have other points of reference before fully committing to a particular area of corporate law. Often when attorneys can find it in themselves to make this request, they are delighted by the results. However, if you feel that making this type of request is simply impossible given the personalities of your current partners or the dynamic at the firm, then you may have to commence a job search.


Another question that you need to ask yourself is how this switch will further your long term goals? Do you even know what your long term professional goals are? If you do not, then I highly recommend doing some soul searching to answer this question, because it is never too early to ask yourself where you truly want to be in five years. Where do you want your career to take you? Too often I encounter seventh and eighth year attorneys who are being pushed out of their firms because they are not going to make partner, and they have never figured out possible exit strategies.

In short, you need to fully examine your desire to switch your focus. Only then can you be certain that you are not making a rash decision which will not serve you in the long term.
 
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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.