Don't Make a Lateral Move Too Soon

We all make mistakes.  A particularly bad mistake is choosing the wrong job out of law school.  I get frequent requests for assistance from very junior associates, some of whom have been in their positions for only a few months, who are unhappy where they are and wish to make a lateral move.

Here’s my advice: stay where you are for at least a year.  If you can, stay for two.  Here’s why you should.


1. As a Practicing Attorney, You Are a Commodity.

Law firms are businesses and they need to make money.  The people receiving your resume might think you are a fabulous person, but nothing trumps the bottom line.  What firms want to know, first and foremost, is whether you are able to add real monetary value to their practice.  Without a certain amount of training (conventional wisdom suggests two years), you simply do not have enough legal knowledge to add much.

You were also a commodity as a promising law student, and firms didn’t expect to make money on you then.  Understand that as a commodity, you change significantly once you join a firm and start practicing.  Firms that hire laterals want them to walk in knowing what they are doing.  Without the benefit of time, you will find that firms do not view you as experienced enough to add anything but potential.

2. You May Be Presenting Yourself as a Losing Bet.

Every time a firm hires a promising new grad, they take a gamble that that person will stay long enough to gain the necessary training add some real value to the firm.   If you try to leave your firm too soon, however, you are telling potential employers that your current firm has already lost that gamble.  It also tells them that you won’t stick it out through the tough times—for example, if you have to deal with a difficult partner or a particularly taxing matter.  In short, it makes you look a little spoiled; if your job isn’t exactly what you want, you’ll walk.  Would you take a gamble on that person?  I wouldn’t.

Firms place a premium on loyalty.  They recognize how rare and valuable a loyal associate is.  Your resume needs to demonstrate that you are someone who will give them enough of a commitment, and you do that by showing at least some loyalty to your present job.  Jumping ship after only a few months tells a potential employer that you will likely leave them too.

There are certainly legitimate reasons to make a lateral move before the two years’ mark.  Maybe your spouse took a job in another city, or your current firm is experiencing hard times.  Without a compelling reason, however, attempting a lateral move too early will likely yield few results.  If you can, you are better off waiting at least a couple of years.

See 6 Things Attorneys and Law Students Need to Remove from Their Resumes ASAP If They Want to Get Jobs with the Most Prestigious Law Firms for more information.

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.