To Temp or Not to Temp

 

It is an inescapable reality these days that many firms are laying off lawyers at all levels, from junior associates fresh out of law school to partners with 25 years of experience. Many of these newly unemployed lawyers – even those with stellar credentials – may be finding it more difficult than expected to find a new job as quickly as they had hoped. With bills to pay, unemployed lawyers are increasingly turning to contract or “temp” agencies for short-term projects that bring in some income, albeit not BigLaw income. Several candidates have asked me recently if there are any downsides to working as a contract lawyer while job hunting. There are – but there are also many potentially upsides.

 

First, the downsides.

 

• The Stigma: The truth is that some firms simply will not consider hiring a lawyer if her resume reflects one or more stints as a contract lawyer. Whether this is fair or not is beside the point. Some firms and lawyers have this bias. The good news is that – given the sheer number of lawyers out of work and the increase in those turning to contract lawyering as a stop-gap – this view is likely to become less prevalent, at least with respect to the current crop of downsized lawyers. Also, with the rise (and success) of new, more respectable “hybrid” contract lawyer firms (such as Axiom), the traditional stigma that some firms have associated with contract lawyers is likely to diminish as firms evolve.


• The Distraction: Some believe that working as a contract attorney will prevent you from dedicating yourself to what should be your primary focus – finding a new job. The thought is that time “wasted” shuffling papers around in a dark basement for low pay would be better spent making calls and sending out resumes for “real jobs.” While it is true that a contract position may require your full attention for a period of weeks or months, it shouldn’t stop you from continuing your job search. No matter how resourceful you are, you can’t really spend your entire day, every day, searching for a job. Most of your job search can be conducted after hours and on weekends. And contract agencies (and employers) typically are understanding if you need to skip a morning of work for an interview for a permanent job.


• The Boredom: With rare exceptions, contract work is boring. And tedious. And mind numbing. And possibly humiliating. My advice: get over yourself. You are still getting paid more than most skilled laborers on an hourly basis. Further, keep reminding yourself that every hour, every day, every week, gives you some additional financial stability so that you can support yourself in finding a new position.





 
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Now, some of the positives.

 

• The Income: I already mentioned the fact that contract work can help you pay some of your bills, but you may be pleasantly surprised at just how much money you take home. Sure your firm was billing you out at $350/hour, but how much of that did you actually keep? Sadly, probably not a lot more than you’ll receive from your temp job.


• The Brain Activity: Being out of work is not fun. Even if you have a financial cushion, day after day of Oprah re-runs, Mario Kart and Halo marathons, sleeping past noon and trying to find stuff to do will rot your brain. Although contract jobs may not always be the most fascinating legal work, at least they keep your mind in the game.


• The Resume: While some firms disdain contract work on your resume, all firms will question large, unexplained gaps. At a minimum, taking a contract position will ensure that you do not have significant gaps of unemployment. It also shows firms that you are ready, willing and eager to work.


• The Leads: Working a contract job means that you are around lawyers all day. Take advantage and be social, friendly and interactive. Let everyone know that you are looking for a permanent position. Do good work. When one of these lawyers hears about a new job – at his firm or somewhere else – he just might tell you about it!


• The Experience: Contract lawyers typically are hired to fill a desperate and immediate need. Prior subject matter experience usually is not required. Take advantage of the opportunity to beef up your knowledge base and improve your resume by learning as much as you can about the subject matter of the transaction or litigation you are assigned to. It may come in handy for your next position.





 
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Conclusion

 

While contract work may carry a historical stigma with some firms, there are many potential advantages – in addition to garnering some immediate cash flow – that make it an attractive option for those waiting out the current fiscal crisis. Be sure to seek out a reputable contract agency and use the experience to your benefit. It may even lead you directly to your next (permanent) legal position!
 

• See The Challenges and risks involved in Moonlighting for more information.

See the following articles for more information:
 

• Should I Become a Contract Attorney?
• Should I Accept a Contract Attorney Position?
• Is Contract Work the New Normal for Litigators?
• Contract Attorneys Job Profile
• How to Become a Contract Attorney
• Does Contract Work Doom Your Career?
• Will contract work hurt chances of landing a full-time job?
• Law Job Opportunities in Contracts
• What's Hot? Today's Legal Specialties

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.