A former candidate of mine recently decided to go on a couple of interviews for positions that had opened up in his practice area.The firm we placed him with several years ago was a terrific choice for him initially.But as his seniority level rose, the size of the practice group and the unclear path to partnership led him to roll the dice and explore his options.He contacted me for suggestions the factors that should influence his decision making process at this stage of his career.
The biggest difference in the present is that any move he makes now will be his last stop before partnership consideration. That makes for an entirely different equation than the one we applied when he was a mid-level. For those of you that are senior associates, lateral partners or in between, here are some suggestions and questions you can use as a filter in your search process:
First, run the most thorough interview process you can, seeing several firms if possible. If you have the luxury of multiple opportunities, educating yourself on what is out there will add to your peace of mind whatever you ultimately conclude.It is in everyone’s best interests for you to make the most informed decision you can.Be forthright with prospective firms about your timeline and desire to find the best fit for your next professional home.When you put it in those terms, there generally is no problem.
Once you are ready to make a decision about an offer or offer(s) ask yourself the following and if you are working with a good recruiter, you already have the answers to the majority of these questions.Revisiting them once your options are more clearly defined can be very useful in making a decision:
How many partners have been made in the practice group in the last few years?(If the group is new or small that should be taken into consideration.)
Who else will be up for partner at the same time as you in any offices where they have attorneys practicing in the same specialty as you?
Historically, what is the track record over all of lateral attorneys being made partner or moving from non-equity to shareholder status?
How does your practice area fit into the strategic plans of the firm-- and what is the focus in general of the firm's practice?(Is your practice important to the firm?Why?)
What is the billing rate at the firm(s) you are considering?How will it impact your ability to build a book of business or originate work?What about any existing matters that you hope or plan to port?
How will your firm be positioned following the Presidential election?Depending on your practice area, the strengths of your firm, and the outcome of the election, this could have bearing.
When and upon what basis will you be considered for partnership?
What are the hour’s expectations for partners? How are partners evaluated? Is there a buy in?
Is credit given for client origination only, new matters from existing clients, servicing a client, and/or cross selling between groups?
What sort of debt does the firm have?
How are decisions made?Are you comfortable with the management structure of the firm?
Does your firm have a culture and a vision that is consistent with how you view yourself as a professional?
What are the firm’s goals and reasons for wanting to expand an area?Do they make sense and support the strategic plans of the firm?
The final step is to return for a visit to the firm or firm(s) you are most impressed with, offer in hand.Ask to speak with one or two laterals that came in with a similar set of circumstances or seniority level to you (the practice area is not critical for this purpose).Listen carefully to how things have gone for them and ask any questions you held back during the interview process.Look around you—are people smiling?Do they seem to be enjoying themselves?Can you see yourself here?
Things can look very different once a firm has asked you to join them and there is no longer the pressure of being in the hot seat.The post-offer visit can be critical in making the best choice.I am sure some of my colleagues may have additions to this quick list that they will add, but I hope this is useful.
Pave your path to legal partnership search with us…! Have a safe Memorial Day Weekend.
About Harrison BarnesHarrison 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.
Harrison Barnes does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for attorneys and law students each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can attend anonymously and ask questions about your career, this article, or any other legal career-related topics. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom
Harrison also does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for law firms, companies, and others who hire attorneys each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom
You can browse a list of past webinars here: Webinar Replays
You can also listen to Harrison Barnes Podcasts here: Attorney Career Advice Podcasts
You can also read Harrison Barnes' articles and books here: Harrison's Perspectives
Harrison Barnes is the legal profession's mentor and may be the only person in your legal career who will tell you why you are not reaching your full potential and what you really need to do to grow as an attorney--regardless of how much it hurts. If you prefer truth to stagnation, growth to comfort, and actionable ideas instead of fluffy concepts, you and Harrison will get along just fine. If, however, you want to stay where you are, talk about your past successes, and feel comfortable, Harrison is not for you.
Truly great mentors are like parents, doctors, therapists, spiritual figures, and others because in order to help you they need to expose you to pain and expose your weaknesses. But suppose you act on the advice and pain created by a mentor. In that case, you will become better: a better attorney, better employees, a better boss, know where you are going, and appreciate where you have been--you will hopefully also become a happier and better person. As you learn from Harrison, he hopes he will become your mentor.
To read more career and life advice articles visit Harrison's personal blog.
