Legal Career FAQs: Expert Answers to Succeed in Today's Legal Job Market

 

1. How can I present myself as a valuable, long-term asset to a law firm?

Law firms are not just looking for someone to fill a role—they’re looking for attorneys who can grow with the firm and become long-term assets. At any stage of your career, whether you’re fresh out of law school or a senior attorney, the most important thing to communicate is your commitment to the firm’s success and your willingness to continually develop your expertise.

One effective way to present yourself as a valuable asset is to focus on demonstrating your ability to deliver exceptional results. Firms need attorneys who can handle complex legal matters, communicate effectively with clients, and work well within the firm’s culture. In interviews, showcase specific examples of your work that demonstrate your attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to meet deadlines.

For example, I once worked with an associate who was competing for a position at a top-tier litigation firm. During his interview, he emphasized how he had successfully managed multiple cases for his previous firm, including a complex litigation case that resulted in a favorable settlement for his client. He explained the steps he took to ensure the case moved efficiently through the courts and how he managed client expectations throughout the process. This level of detail and focus on results made him stand out, and he was hired.

If you’re a more senior attorney, firms may expect you to bring in business or demonstrate your ability to manage significant cases independently. However, if you don’t yet have a book of business, emphasize your expertise in your practice area and your ability to develop strong relationships with clients. Firms may still hire you based on your ability to immediately contribute to their existing client work while you build a client base.

Building relationships with partners and demonstrating your willingness to be a team player can also help you become a long-term asset. Law firms value loyalty and teamwork, so showing that you are invested in the firm’s long-term goals will make you an attractive candidate.
 

2. Should I switch practice areas if the market for my current one is slow?

Switching practice areas is a decision that should not be taken lightly, but it can be a smart move if your current practice area is experiencing a downturn. For example, during economic recessions, corporate law and real estate often slow down, while bankruptcy and litigation may become busier. If you find yourself in a practice area with few job opportunities, switching may provide a path forward.

However, there are challenges involved in changing practice areas. First, you need to assess how transferable your skills are. For instance, if you’ve been practicing corporate law, some of your transactional skills may be applicable to other areas, such as mergers and acquisitions or real estate. Litigation attorneys may find that their research and writing skills transfer well to areas like appellate law or insurance defense.

It’s important to remember that switching practice areas essentially means you’ll be starting over in some respects. You may not have the same level of expertise in your new field, and you’ll need to invest time in learning new skills and building a new professional network. Law firms hiring you in a new practice area will expect you to get up to speed quickly, so it’s critical to be prepared to work hard and prove your value.

One attorney I worked with made the successful transition from intellectual property (IP) law to litigation. While she was a senior attorney in IP, she recognized that her region had fewer opportunities for growth in that practice area. After researching the demand for litigation attorneys, she decided to pivot. By leveraging her research and analytical skills, she positioned herself as someone who could bring a fresh perspective to litigation, and she landed a position at a mid-sized firm that was impressed by her adaptability and enthusiasm for learning.

When explaining a practice area switch in interviews, emphasize the transferable skills you bring and your ability to quickly gain expertise in the new area. Show that your decision to switch practice areas is well thought out and driven by your desire to remain relevant and contribute meaningfully to your new firm.
 

3. What are the best practice areas to enter if I’m just starting my legal career?

Choosing the right practice area early in your legal career can set the tone for your future. Some practice areas offer greater stability and long-term opportunities, while others can be more volatile. If you’re just starting out, it’s important to consider both your personal interests and the demand in different practice areas.

Litigation is one of the most consistent practice areas in terms of demand. Almost every law firm, regardless of size, requires litigators. Whether it’s general commercial litigation, personal injury, or more specialized areas like securities litigation, there is always a need for skilled trial lawyers. For young attorneys, litigation also offers the opportunity to develop a broad range of skills, including legal research, drafting, negotiation, and public speaking.

Labor and employment law is another area that remains strong in both economic booms and downturns. Companies are always dealing with employment-related issues, such as discrimination claims, wage and hour disputes, and labor negotiations. Labor and employment lawyers often work on behalf of either employers or employees, which provides flexibility in terms of job opportunities. It’s a practice area where demand is relatively stable, and there are opportunities for young attorneys to gain valuable experience early on.

Immigration law is a growing field, especially in regions with large immigrant populations. Immigration attorneys are in high demand as immigration policies evolve, and there are consistent legal challenges related to visas, deportations, and citizenship. This area offers the chance to work directly with clients and make a significant impact on their lives.

Other niche areas like intellectual property law, cybersecurity law, and healthcare law have seen substantial growth in recent years. These fields are often driven by technological advancements, and they offer attorneys the chance to work on cutting-edge legal issues.

When selecting a practice area, also consider geographic trends. Some regions may have higher demand for certain areas of law. For instance, environmental law may be more in demand in states like California, while oil and gas law may offer more opportunities in Texas.
 

4. How can I explain several lateral moves in my career without coming across as unstable?

Making multiple lateral moves can sometimes raise concerns for hiring partners, but it’s important to frame these moves in a positive light. If each move has helped you advance your career, gain new skills, or take on more complex cases, it’s essential to communicate that during the interview process.

To address potential concerns about stability, focus on how each move was strategic. For example, if you moved from a small firm to a larger firm, you could explain that the move allowed you to work on more high-profile cases or to specialize in a particular area of law that you are passionate about. Highlight the benefits each move brought you, such as increased responsibility, more exposure to clients, or the chance to hone your expertise in a specific practice area.

I worked with an attorney who had made four lateral moves in six years, and she was concerned that this might hurt her chances of landing a stable position at a prestigious law firm. During her interview process, we focused on how each move allowed her to narrow her focus on appellate litigation, which was her passion. By explaining that her moves were driven by a desire to specialize, rather than instability, she reassured potential employers that she was committed to her field. She was eventually offered a position at a highly respected boutique firm specializing in appellate work.

If you’ve moved laterally due to firm instability—such as layoffs or firm closures—it’s also important to be transparent about that. Explain that external factors were at play and that you made the moves to continue your career growth. Firms will appreciate your honesty and resilience in navigating difficult situations.
 

5. How should I approach interviews when I don’t have a significant book of business?

For attorneys who don’t have a large book of business, it’s essential to focus on what you do bring to the table. Many law firms, particularly larger firms, are more concerned with your ability to handle their existing client work efficiently. This is especially true for junior attorneys and mid-level associates who are not expected to bring in business but are relied upon for their skills and expertise.

During interviews, emphasize your experience, your understanding of the law, and your ability to manage complex cases. If you have worked on high-stakes cases, discuss those experiences and how they have prepared you to contribute to the firm’s success. Highlight your problem-solving skills, your ability to communicate effectively with clients, and your dedication to producing high-quality work.

For senior attorneys, the lack of a book of business can be more problematic. However, even without significant business, firms may still hire you if they have enough work and need your expertise. In these cases, it’s important to present a plan for how you will help develop business for the firm in the future. This could include networking strategies, identifying potential clients, or leveraging your relationships with existing clients to generate more business. The key is to show that while you may not have a large book of business now, you are actively working on building one and have a clear strategy for doing so.

One attorney I worked with had been practicing for over 10 years but didn’t have a significant book of business. During his interviews, he was upfront about this and explained that his focus had been on managing major corporate transactions for his firm. However, he also outlined a detailed plan for developing business in the next few years, which included joining industry associations, attending conferences, and leveraging his connections with existing clients. His proactive approach impressed the firm, and he was hired.
 

6. What’s the most effective way to prepare for an interview?

Preparing for an interview is not just about knowing your resume—it’s about understanding the firm’s needs and positioning yourself as the solution. The best candidates approach interviews as a two-way conversation where they are just as interested in learning about the firm as the firm is in learning about them.

One of the most effective strategies is to do thorough research on the firm before the interview. Look into their recent cases, the clients they serve, and the firm’s overall structure. This allows you to tailor your responses to show how your skills and experience align with the firm’s needs.

During the interview, ask insightful questions about the firm’s goals and challenges. For example, ask the interviewer what the biggest challenges facing the firm are, or what the firm’s growth plans are for the next few years. By shifting the conversation to focus on how you can contribute to the firm’s success, you demonstrate that you are not just looking for any job—you are specifically interested in helping the firm meet its objectives.

In one memorable interview experience, a litigation attorney I worked with asked the managing partner of a mid-sized firm what he thought was the firm’s greatest weakness. The managing partner was taken aback but impressed by the attorney’s directness and interest in solving problems. They ended up having a long discussion about how the firm could improve its operations, and the attorney was hired shortly after.
 

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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.