Breaking Barriers: Why Law Firms Reject Attorneys and How You Can Turn It Around

 

The Legal Job Market’s Cyclical Nature

The legal job market is far from static; it ebbs and flows with economic conditions. When the economy is booming, firms expand, and hiring increases across many practice areas, especially in corporate law, real estate, and mergers & acquisitions. However, during economic downturns, even the most qualified attorneys may struggle to find work.

Take, for example, the current state of the economy. We are seeing ripple effects like never before. Large corporations are cutting back on outside counsel, and real estate practices are faltering as demand dries up. Warehouses sit empty, and credit card default rates are rising. These economic trends directly impact law firms, which in turn reduce their hiring. Even if you have stellar credentials, you may be facing rejection not because of your skills but because there are simply fewer opportunities.

Let’s look at the real estate sector. Just a few years ago, law firms had lines of clients needing real estate counsel. But today, many real estate attorneys are losing their jobs or struggling to find new ones. The market has shifted, and firms are not bringing in the work they once did. You could be the best attorney in the field, but if the practice area itself is shrinking, you’ll face significant hurdles.
 

Why Law Firms Reject Attorneys

 

1. You Aren’t Applying to Enough Firms

One of the biggest mistakes attorneys make is not casting a wide enough net. The legal market is enormous, with thousands of law firms across different sizes, locations, and specialties. However, many attorneys limit themselves by only applying to a few firms in their local market or focusing exclusively on large, prestigious firms. This narrow approach dramatically reduces your chances of success.

Consider the example of rural law firms. Many small-town firms have openings that go unfilled for months because most attorneys focus their job searches on big cities. For example, rural towns in places like Montana or North Dakota often have a dire need for attorneys, yet few apply because they don’t want to relocate. In one case, a candidate in my firm was a corporate attorney in New York who couldn’t find work for six months. When she expanded her search to smaller markets, she received several offers from firms in smaller cities that were eager to hire her.

Even if you have an impressive resume, limiting your search to just a few firms, especially in major metropolitan areas, is a recipe for rejection. The broader your search, the better your chances of finding a firm that is actively hiring and willing to consider your application.
 

2. You Are Facing Stiff Competition

Another reason attorneys are rejected is simply the level of competition. For every job opening at a prestigious firm, there are often dozens—if not hundreds—of highly qualified applicants. When law firms post openings, especially in major markets, they are inundated with applications. Only a select few will make it to the interview stage.

For example, law firms like Cooley LLP in Silicon Valley might receive 50 or more applications for a single litigator position. Even if you’re a strong candidate, you may not be the top choice among such a competitive field. In these situations, you are competing with attorneys from top law schools, with impeccable credentials, and often with more relevant local experience.

However, smaller markets often face less competition. A candidate who struggled to get interviews in Washington D.C. may find themselves in demand in cities like Richmond or Baltimore, where there are fewer applicants vying for the same positions. One particular attorney I worked with applied to 15 large law firms in Los Angeles and didn’t get a single interview. When he came to me, I suggested we broaden his search. We focused on smaller firms and secondary markets, and he ended up securing multiple interviews and job offers.
 

3. Your Resume Isn’t Selling You Properly

Your resume is your primary marketing tool, and if it doesn’t properly showcase your skills and experience, you’ll be rejected before a firm even gets to know you. One of the most common mistakes attorneys make is sending out a generic resume that doesn’t speak to the specific job they’re applying for. Worse, some resumes include irrelevant or damaging information.

For instance, I once saw a resume from a candidate who went to a top Ivy League law school but mentioned his personal views on sexuality over 17 times on a single page. Regardless of his qualifications, that resume raised red flags. Law firms, particularly in competitive markets, don’t want to hire someone who may bring controversial views into the workplace or alienate potential clients.

Another common mistake is listing too many practice areas or unrelated skills. Firms are not looking for generalists. If you’re applying for a position as a litigator, your resume should focus on your litigation experience—not on other practice areas you’ve dabbled in.

It’s essential to tailor your resume for each application. Remove irrelevant details and focus on the skills and experience that match the job posting. For example, if a firm is hiring for a securities attorney, highlight your work in that area, not your real estate experience. Spending time refining your resume can make the difference between getting rejected outright or landing an interview.
 

4. You’re Targeting the Wrong Market

Another reason for rejection is targeting a market that doesn’t have a demand for your practice area. The legal job market is not uniform—different cities and regions have different needs, and practice areas fluctuate in demand depending on the economic climate.

For instance, when the real estate market is booming, law firms can’t hire real estate attorneys fast enough. But when the market slows, real estate lawyers can find themselves without work for months on end. I once worked with a real estate attorney in California who was incredibly talented but couldn’t find work because the market had dried up. She eventually found success by applying to firms in Nevada, where the demand for real estate attorneys was still high.

In another example, a bankruptcy attorney may find themselves in high demand during a recession, while a corporate M&A lawyer struggles to find work. It’s crucial to assess the market demand for your practice area. If your area is currently slow, you may need to pivot to a related practice or expand your job search to other geographic areas where demand is higher..
 

5. Law Firms May Have Other Factors at Play

Law firms make hiring decisions based on factors beyond your qualifications. Sometimes, internal dynamics within the firm can affect whether or not you get hired. For example, I once worked with a candidate who was a senior attorney in a niche corporate area. He had a strong background, but during his job search, he was repeatedly rejected, despite getting interviews.

In one instance, he traveled from Washington, D.C., to New York City for an interview, only to be kept waiting in the lobby for over an hour. Eventually, the firm informed him that they couldn’t interview him that day due to a last-minute change. Despite their polite explanation, they never rescheduled the interview, leaving him in limbo. This experience wasn’t a reflection of his skills—it was simply a matter of bad timing and internal politics at the firm. He eventually landed a job at a small law firm in Boston, but it took six months of persistent searching.

Another example is the case of an attorney I worked with who was told she would receive an offer from a major firm in California. She was excited and even started preparing to quit her current job. But at the last minute, the firm changed its mind, citing salary concerns. Despite being assured she was the top candidate, the firm decided they couldn’t afford her. These types of rejections can feel personal, but they often have nothing to do with you as a candidate.
 

How to Overcome Rejection and Find Success

 

1. Increase Your Application Pool

The first and most straightforward way to overcome rejection is to apply to more places. As I’ve mentioned, the legal job market is vast. There are thousands of firms across the country, and each one has its unique hiring needs. If you’re only applying to a few, especially in highly competitive markets, you’re dramatically reducing your chances of success.

One of the most successful attorneys I’ve worked with applied to over 400 firms before landing his position. He wasn’t the top candidate in terms of qualifications, but his persistence paid off. By applying to as many firms as possible, he found one that was the right fit for his experience and skill set.
 

2. Focus on Unadvertised Jobs

Many of the best opportunities are never advertised publicly. Law firms often fill positions through internal referrals or by relying on recruiters. By focusing on unadvertised jobs, you can reduce the level of competition. Services like LawCrossing specialize in finding these hidden opportunities.

For example, one of my candidates was a mid-level corporate attorney in Detroit. He struggled to find advertised positions but eventually secured a role through an unadvertised opening that was only posted on a law firm’s internal website. He was the only candidate, and the firm was eager to hire someone with his experience.
 

3. Tailor Your Resume for Each Application

Your resume should be specific to the job you are applying for. It’s not enough to have a “one-size-fits-all” resume. Take the time to revise your resume to match each job posting. Remove irrelevant experience and highlight the skills and practice areas that the firm is looking for.

I often advise my clients to seek professional help with their resumes. Having an outside perspective can make a huge difference. A polished, tailored resume is often the key to getting through the initial screening process and landing an interview.
 

4. Persistence Is Key

Rejection is part of the process. Even the most qualified candidates face rejection, and often for reasons that are beyond their control. The key is to persist. Keep applying, keep refining your approach, and don’t give up.
 

5. Be Open to Geographic Flexibility

Sometimes, the market you’re targeting is simply too saturated. Being willing to relocate or apply to firms in other regions can open up new opportunities. Smaller markets often have less competition, and firms in these areas may be more eager to hire candidates with your experience.

In one example, a candidate of mine broadened her search from Chicago to smaller markets in the Midwest and received multiple job offers. Sometimes, the best opportunities aren’t where you expect them to be.
 

Conclusion

Rejection is a natural part of the legal job search process. By understanding why law firms reject candidates and implementing strategies to overcome these challenges, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Whether it’s broadening your search, tailoring your resume, or focusing on unadvertised jobs, each step you take brings you closer to finding the right position.

Stay persistent, stay flexible, and most importantly, stay focused. Success often comes to those who are willing to adapt and push through the obstacles. By embracing these strategies, you’ll be better positioned to overcome rejection and secure the legal job you’ve been striving for.
 

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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.