Mastering the Interview: Key Focus Areas for Lateral Attorneys

 

1. Stay Committed to Your Practice Area

One of the most critical pieces of advice for lateral attorneys is to stay committed to their chosen practice area. Shifting from one practice area to another can derail a promising career path, especially if you’ve spent years honing expertise in a niche area. Firms value consistency and depth of experience in a specific area of law, and moving into unrelated fields—such as litigation when your focus has been on bankruptcy—can dilute your marketability.

In an interview, highlight your deep commitment to your practice area. Emphasize how your experience aligns with the firm’s needs and how you’ve become more specialized over time. As you gain more experience, you become more marketable because fewer people have your level of knowledge and expertise in that niche. Demonstrating your long-term dedication to your practice area signals to firms that you are a stable, focused candidate who is less likely to make sudden career changes.
 

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2. Seek Sophisticated Work and Clients

Lateral moves should always be about professional growth and increasing the complexity of the work you’re handling. Larger clients typically present more sophisticated legal problems, and working with them offers you the opportunity to develop as an attorney. In an interview, make sure to express your desire to work on more challenging cases and how that will contribute to your growth as a lawyer.


By positioning yourself as someone who is eager to work on complex matters, you show that you’re not just looking for a lateral move but are actively seeking opportunities to improve your skills. This also aligns with a firm’s goals—firms want attorneys who can handle high-level matters and build long-term client relationships. More sophisticated cases allow you to dig deeper into issues and deliver better results for clients, further establishing your reputation.
 

3. Tailor Your Interview Responses to the Firm’s Needs

Preparation is critical for any interview, but it’s even more important for lateral candidates. Before the interview, study the firm’s recent cases, client base, and practice group needs. Familiarizing yourself with the firm’s specific work will allow you to ask intelligent questions and show that you’ve done your homework.

A good interview strategy is to connect your experience directly with the firm’s work. If they’re handling large bankruptcy cases, for example, discuss similar matters you’ve worked on, the outcomes you achieved, and how those experiences have prepared you to contribute to their team. Don’t just talk for the sake of talking—make your points concise, relevant, and focused on how you can add value. Highlight your enthusiasm for taking on sophisticated work, as it shows you’re motivated by professional development rather than compensation or work-from-home policies.
 

4. The Importance of Body Language and Presentation

Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in interviews. Your posture, body language, and even your background in a Zoom interview can influence the impression you leave. Always present yourself in a professional manner, whether in person or virtually. Dress appropriately, and if it’s a Zoom interview, ensure your background is professional and uncluttered.

Additionally, mirror the interviewer’s tone and pace during the conversation. If they’re speaking quickly, match their pace; if they’re more relaxed, adjust your tone accordingly. This creates rapport and helps the interviewer feel more comfortable. Small details like these can subtly enhance your connection with the firm.
 

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• Top 23 Law Firm Interview Tips: How to Excel in Law Firm Interviews
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• The Best Way to Prepare for a Job Search and Interviews

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5. Ask Questions That Show You’re Focused on Success

One of the most effective ways to make a strong impression in an interview is to ask thoughtful, success-oriented questions. Avoid generic questions about firm policies or compensation, and instead, ask questions that reflect your interest in delivering results. A great example is: "What does success look like in this position for the first few months?" or "What would I need to do to be the best associate you’ve ever had in this role?"

These types of questions show that you’re not only interested in landing the job but also in excelling once you’re hired. Firms are more likely to hire candidates who demonstrate a commitment to producing high-quality work and contributing to the firm’s success.
 

6. Be Humble but Confident

A balance of humility and confidence is key in interviews. Firms want attorneys who are competent but also willing to learn and grow. Overconfidence or a focus on salary and perks can signal a lack of commitment to the work itself. Instead, emphasize how excited you are to learn from more experienced attorneys, to develop your skills, and to take on increasingly sophisticated work.
Humility doesn’t mean underselling yourself. Make it clear that you’re committed to the practice area, the work, and the firm’s success, but avoid sounding like you’re entitled to the position. Let your passion for the work and your enthusiasm for the opportunity speak for itself.
 

7. Understand That Partners Are Your Clients

When you’re a lateral attorney, especially at the associate level, the partners at the firm are your clients. Your job is to make their lives easier by delivering excellent work, being reliable, and showing a willingness to take on difficult assignments. In interviews, frame yourself as someone who is there to serve the partners’ needs—just as you would with a paying client.

By adopting this mindset, you position yourself as a team player who understands the dynamics of law firms. Partners want associates who are reliable, hardworking, and focused on delivering results. If you can show that you understand this relationship, you’ll stand out as a candidate who is mature and ready to contribute meaningfully to the firm.
 

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8. Commitment Is Key

Firms are looking for attorneys who are committed—not just to the position, but to the work and the firm’s long-term success. In the interview, make it clear that you are fully committed to the practice area and to growing with the firm. Mention that you’re excited to be part of a team where you can contribute to the firm’s success while developing your own skills.

Expressing a high level of commitment also helps alleviate concerns about job-hopping or lack of stability. Firms want to invest in candidates who will stay and grow with them, so show them that you’re in it for the long haul.
 

9. Why Do You Want the Job?

One of the most common—and often critical—questions interviewers ask lateral attorneys is: “Why are you looking for a job?” Your answer to this question can make or break the interview. Focus on the right reasons for making a lateral move—such as wanting to work on larger, more complex cases or seeking more hands-on responsibility. Avoid framing your answer around dissatisfaction with your current firm or compensation.

Firms want to see that your move is motivated by career growth and professional development, not by external factors like salary or firm prestige. Emphasize your desire to become a better attorney by working on more sophisticated matters, learning from experienced partners, and contributing to a firm that challenges you to improve.
 

10. The Interview Is an Opportunity to Show Enthusiasm

Finally, remember that firms want to hire attorneys who are genuinely excited about the opportunity. In your interview, express your enthusiasm for the firm and the position. Let them know why you’re excited about joining their team and how you see this role fitting into your long-term career goals.
Enthusiasm is contagious, and firms are more likely to hire someone who is passionate about the work. Be sure to convey how thrilled you are about the opportunity and how you plan to contribute to the firm’s success from day one.
 

Conclusion

For lateral attorneys, interviews are about much more than just landing a new job. They are an opportunity to position yourself for long-term success and demonstrate your commitment to growing as a professional. By focusing on your practice area, showing enthusiasm, preparing thoroughly, and understanding the dynamics of law firm culture, you can make a lasting impression and set yourself up for a successful career move.
 

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See the following articles for more information:​

• How to Talk About Other Interviews in Your Interviews
• How to Answer the Tell Me About Yourself Interview Question
• How to Answer the Do You Have Any Questions for Me Interview Question
• Had a Great Interview But Have Got No Response to My Thank-You Emails
• What Does It Mean if I Haven't Heard Anything Back from an Application/Interview in a Couple Weeks?
• What to Wear to a Lunch Interview?
• How to Effectively Interview Lateral Candidates: Pointers for Law Firms
• The Interview Post-Mortem: Don't Forget Your Thank You Notes!
• The Secret to Effectively Sharing Concerns about Your Current Employer without Committing the Most Common Interview Blunder
• How to Conduct Yourself During a Lunch Interview
• Why Most Attorneys Fail Telephone-Screening Interviews

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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.