This candidate was an experienced Orlando-based litigator with particular expertise in probate litigation and a portable book of business. While she was happy and very highly regarded at her previous firm, too much of her practice had been focused on estate planning lately. The candidate did not mind estate planning and was fine with that being part of her practice, but she is a litigator at heart who would prefer to spend most of her time working on commercial and probate litigation. Therefore, she was seeking to lateral to a firm in Orlando, where she could spend a greater proportion of her time on litigation matters.
This candidate attended a local law school in Orlando and went on to become an Assistant State Attorney with the State Attorneyâs Office for Lake County, Florida. Seeking to transition into a career in civil litigation, after a few years, she joined a local firm, where she focused on probate, trust, real estate, and employment litigation, along with some estate planning work.
Seeking to work on more sophisticated matters, after a few years, she joined a larger firm, where she represented clients in Trust and Will contests, real estate litigation and contract disputes, and also worked on estate planning matters.
While I was a bit hesitant to work with this candidate because it is generally difficult to place a senior litigator without a significant book of business who did not attend a top law school or have a very cookie cutter resume, she won me over during our initial phone conversation. This candidate was clearly very bright, articulate, friendly, confident, passionate about her work, and would interview extremely well. In addition, this candidate was extremely open-minded when it came to law firms. She promptly approved every law firm I sent her and, as a result, quickly received multiple interviews! During our interview prep calls, it became clear that this candidate was a natural interviewer who would have no difficulty navigating the interview process. Her first interviews were phone interviews. Later, she met with attorneys at one firm in person.
That firm very shortly thereafter gave her a great offer and she promptly accepted!
Conventional legal recruiting wisdom would tell you that it is hard to place a senior litigator without a significant book of business who did not attend a top law school or have a very cookie cutter resume. Such wisdom would also tell you that it is difficult to place anyone during a pandemic induced government shutdown. However, this candidate just goes to show you that, regardless of what is going on in the market, eagerness, determination, and great interviewing skills can often trump class year, lack of a significant portable book of business, and educational credentials.
This candidate was a true joy to work with and I am sure that she will be very successful at her local firm in Orlando.
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.
