Is it Better to Make a Lateral Move as a Senior Associate or as a Junior Partner?

Another major consideration in deciding whether to make a lateral move is whether you have portable business or not. In my opinion, you are better off lateraling as an 8th year associate than to be a junior partner with no business trying to make a lateral move. As a junior partner without business, firms see you as expensive. Moreover, firms are sometimes concerned that someone who has been so long at another firm may be set in their ways and may not necessarily acclimate to its culture. Whereas if you are an 8th year, you are still considered “teachable” and are more likely to adapt to a new firm’s culture. This, of course, isn’t necessarily true. A junior partner may be just as likely to adapt to a new firm’s culture or even adapt better than an 8th year. Still, upper management at firms are often set in their ways and have preconceived notions that can be hard to dispel.

 
In terms of optics, some senior associates worry that if they move as an 8th year, firms may think they are moving because they were told they had no chance of making partner. In reality, there are many ways a senior associate can explain why they have decided to make a move at this juncture in their career. One reason may be that the firm is undergoing a fundamental organizational change, as in a merger or taking a different cultural direction. Second, perhaps they are looking to go to a firm with certain desirable characteristics that their current firm does not have and does not plan on having, such as a specific type of practice group, cultural leaning, or a particular attorney you always wanted as a mentor. Third, especially now, some firms have decided to allow attorneys to go fully remote even after the Corona Virus is contained. Many attorneys are opting to go to firms that have embraced the concept of remote work. The point is, whatever your reason for making a lateral move as a senior associate, there is no reason why you should wait until you make partner.
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.