Strategic Moves: Why Attorneys Change Law Firms to Shape Their Careers

 

1. Enhancing Reputation and Personal Branding

 

The reputation of a law firm can carry as much weight as a law degree from a prestigious school, influencing an attorney’s opportunities and personal brand. Many attorneys view firm prestige as essential for building a credible and respected professional identity, particularly in a competitive field. Working at a top firm can become a defining part of one’s legal career, impacting future cases and even the type of clients who are attracted to the attorney.

One attorney I encountered demonstrated a strategic approach to personal branding. Despite not attending a top-tier law school, his determination to build a strong professional reputation led him to aim for a position at a more prestigious firm. By transitioning from a regional firm to a high-prestige firm, he was able to redefine his professional image and gain access to a network of high-value clients. This move didn’t just change his career; it shaped how others viewed him in the legal community and opened doors to new, high-caliber work.

For attorneys with ambition, securing a position at a well-known firm is a way to signal their dedication, expertise, and skill. Many attorneys I speak with highlight early-career stints at firms like Skadden, even if those positions were held years or decades earlier. One attorney I know, though no longer practicing, still prominently mentions his experience at Skadden when discussing his career—a testament to the enduring value of working for a top-tier firm. These high-prestige experiences can become foundational elements in an attorney’s career, often conferring a level of respect and recognition that enhances marketability and client trust.

A similar experience from my own career underscores the lasting value of firm reputation. Early in my career in Detroit, I set my sights on Hahnemann Miller, one of the most reputable firms in the region. Although I ultimately did not secure a position there, my desire to join was rooted in a clear understanding of the influence a prestigious firm name can have. Over the years, I have seen this same narrative repeated by attorneys who, like myself, value firm reputation as a critical component of personal branding. Attorneys who make these moves often gain not only valuable experience but also the ability to leverage the firm’s reputation as a tool to attract clients, negotiate cases, and build a resilient legal career.

 

2. Broadening Reach Through a National Platform

 

Attorneys working at regional firms often find that geographical limitations can restrict their client base. When clients operate in multiple states or internationally, a larger platform becomes essential. Moving to a national firm with offices in multiple jurisdictions gives attorneys the flexibility to manage complex, multi-state cases, meet client needs comprehensively, and expand their practice beyond regional constraints.

One example is an attorney I worked with in Florida. While he had an extensive client base, his firm’s regional focus prevented him from effectively serving clients in other states, such as California and Colorado. Frustrated with the limitations, he ultimately moved to a national firm with offices across the country. This new platform allowed him to maintain client relationships and expand his business, establishing a solid foundation for long-term success in the legal field. This move significantly increased his capacity to serve clients, enhancing both his reputation and professional satisfaction.

A similar scenario unfolded for a real estate attorney in Colorado who served clients with properties across multiple states, including New York and Florida. His expertise attracted clients from diverse regions, but his firm’s local footprint limited his ability to provide full-service representation. By moving to a larger firm with a national presence, he gained the infrastructure to handle transactions across state lines. This strategic move enabled him to grow his influence in the real estate sector and position himself as a leader in multi-jurisdictional cases, proving that for attorneys with geographically diverse clients, a national platform can be transformative.

Attorneys who join firms with national reach gain more than just geographical coverage—they gain the ability to offer continuity and depth in their services, building a loyal client base and handling cases that would otherwise be beyond their scope. This move is not merely about attracting more clients; it’s about positioning oneself as a leading attorney in complex, high-stakes cases that span multiple jurisdictions.

 

3. Access to Diverse Practice Areas and Cross-Selling Opportunities

 

Cross-selling within a firm can be a game-changer for attorneys with clients in industries that require diverse legal services. When a firm specializes solely in one or two practice areas, attorneys may struggle to meet all of their clients’ needs, creating gaps that can ultimately limit growth. Attorneys who see the potential for cross-selling often choose to move to firms with a variety of practice areas, allowing them to provide comprehensive legal services and retain clients who require multiple forms of representation.

I once placed an attorney who specialized in regulatory law but frequently received requests for commercial litigation support from his clients. While his mid-sized firm excelled in regulatory law, its lack of a commercial litigation department prevented him from handling these requests. Realizing the need for a firm with more practice areas, he moved to one with a strong litigation department. This change allowed him to serve clients comprehensively and maintain his existing relationships, all while expanding his service offerings and establishing a more versatile reputation.

Another example involved an attorney who handled substantial commercial litigation cases but faced limitations due to his firm’s narrow insurance defense focus. He recalled being approached by a client for a high-budget commercial litigation case, but his firm lacked the resources to handle it internally. To retain the client, he moved to a firm with a robust commercial litigation department, allowing him to bring in the case and grow his book of business. This move not only helped him secure credit for the work but also improved his earning potential, highlighting how cross-selling opportunities can drive career growth for attorneys with an entrepreneurial outlook.

Attorneys who move to firms with diverse practice areas often develop a stronger client base and reputation for versatility. A firm that offers multiple legal services enables attorneys to cross-sell effectively, creating stronger, more valuable relationships with clients who appreciate a full-service approach. For attorneys seeking to expand client relationships, such firms provide an environment where they can meet a variety of client needs, securing loyalty and strengthening their practice.

 

4. Navigating Mergers and Cultural Shifts

 

Mergers and acquisitions are increasingly common in the legal industry, often introducing a range of new dynamics that can prompt attorneys to reconsider their positions. When two firms with distinct values or management styles come together, cultural friction can arise, leading some attorneys to feel disconnected or even marginalized. Mergers frequently lead to significant changes in firm culture, management structure, and practice focus, making it challenging for attorneys to adapt to new expectations.

One attorney I worked with had been with a well-established mid-sized firm that eventually merged with a larger corporate-focused firm. The merger brought about shifts in the firm’s values and priorities, creating a cultural divide that ultimately left him feeling out of place. The newly merged firm focused primarily on corporate transactions, which meant that his practice area—employment law—was increasingly deprioritized. Disheartened by the changes, he decided to move to a firm that maintained a culture more aligned with his career aspirations.

Mergers often result in one firm’s culture dominating the new entity, which can be unsettling for attorneys whose practices are less valued in the new structure. In some cases, firms cut practice areas that they view as less profitable, creating instability for attorneys who had previously enjoyed a stable client base. Attorneys who specialize in areas that are no longer prioritized often choose to move to avoid uncertainty and secure a stable environment that supports their expertise.

For attorneys who find themselves facing cultural and operational shifts following a merger, moving to a new firm can provide the stability they need to continue developing their careers without disruption. Choosing a firm that values their practice area and offers a stable culture allows them to avoid the turbulence that mergers can bring, enabling them to focus fully on their work and long-term professional goals.

 

5. Increasing Autonomy and Embracing Flexible Compensation Structures

 

Autonomy over client relationships, billing practices, and practice development is crucial for attorneys who value independence. Many traditional firms maintain strict policies regarding compensation, client relationships, and business development, which can be limiting for entrepreneurial attorneys. For those who prioritize autonomy and growth, moving to a more flexible firm often proves to be a turning point in their careers.

One partner I worked with had developed a substantial book of business and strong client relationships, yet he felt constrained by his firm’s inflexible compensation structure. The firm did not fully recognize his efforts to bring in clients, leaving him feeling undervalued and restricted in his ability to grow. Frustrated with these limitations, he moved to a more entrepreneurial firm that rewarded client development and offered a flexible compensation model. This shift provided him with the freedom to develop his client relationships and expand his practice, creating a more rewarding and fulfilling professional experience.

Flexible compensation structures are not just important for partners; associates looking to build their client base can also benefit from firms that support business development. Attorneys who seek greater autonomy often prefer firms that value and encourage client acquisition, allowing them to grow without restrictive policies. Firms that promote autonomy in practice management often see higher satisfaction and performance among their attorneys, who feel empowered to grow their practices and take ownership of their careers.

 

6. Expanding Professional Growth and Responsibility

 

Opportunities for professional growth and responsibility are essential for attorneys at all stages of their careers. In some cases, an attorney’s current firm may offer limited responsibilities, hindering their ability to develop leadership skills and handle complex cases. I worked with a Yale Law School graduate who had gained significant experience managing deals at Sullivan & Cromwell in New York. After relocating to the Bay Area, she joined a smaller firm with the hope of bringing her expertise to a new market. However, her new firm placed her in a junior role, limiting her to smaller cases with less strategic involvement. Frustrated by the lack of challenging work, she ultimately moved to a firm that valued her skill set and provided leadership opportunities.

Her experience is not unique. Many attorneys find themselves underutilized, particularly after lateral moves, when firms don’t fully recognize their potential. Attorneys in such positions often choose to move to firms that prioritize career growth, assigning high-stakes cases and providing opportunities for leadership. For attorneys with clear ambitions, moving to a firm that values professional growth enables them to take on responsibility, build expertise, and lay the foundation for long-term career advancement.

Leadership opportunities are especially important for attorneys aspiring to partner. Firms that assign complex cases and encourage independent decision-making provide an environment where attorneys can build confidence, expand their knowledge, and position themselves for career advancement.
 

7. Balancing Work Flexibility and Work Culture

With remote work options more widely available than ever, flexibility has become a critical factor in career decisions for many attorneys. For those balancing personal obligations or simply looking for a manageable work-life balance, the ability to work remotely or set flexible hours can be indispensable. I recently worked with an attorney who received a generous offer from a firm that nearly doubled his salary. However, the position required an hour-long commute each way, making it challenging to balance work and personal responsibilities. When he requested remote work one day per week, the firm withdrew the offer, preferring an in-office commitment.

For attorneys with personal obligations or preferences, remote work is not merely a benefit; it’s a necessity that improves both work-life balance and job satisfaction. Firms that embrace remote work options attract attorneys who prioritize flexibility, often finding that these arrangements lead to improved productivity, morale, and overall performance. Remote work options allow attorneys to eliminate commute time, focus on casework, and manage their personal lives more effectively, resulting in a win-win for both the firm and the attorney.

 

8. Specialization and Practice Area Focus

 

Attorneys with specialized expertise may face pressure to shift practice areas based on firm demands or client needs. When an attorney is passionate about a particular field, such shifts can feel misaligned with their career goals. I worked with an attorney who joined a firm specifically for its white-collar litigation practice. However, once he arrived, he found that his firm had limited white-collar cases, and management urged him to focus on commercial litigation. Recognizing that this shift did not align with his career aspirations, he eventually found a position at a firm that honored his original specialization.

For attorneys with clear career paths, maintaining a focus on a specific practice area is essential for building expertise and reputation. Moving to a firm that respects an attorney’s specialization allows them to develop their practice without the disruption of constantly shifting focus, enabling them to build a solid foundation in their chosen area.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The decision to move firms is both a strategic and personal one. Each of the reasons outlined here represents a factor that can profoundly impact an attorney’s career satisfaction and professional success. Moving firms offers attorneys a way to align their careers with their values, goals, and aspirations. Whether driven by a desire for greater autonomy, a need for professional growth, or the pursuit of a flexible work environment, each move offers attorneys the chance to build the legal career they envision.

For attorneys who make the right move at the right time, the benefits can be far-reaching. They gain the opportunity to serve high-value clients, grow within their practice areas, and enjoy a fulfilling and balanced career. Each strategic move creates a pathway to success, ensuring that every step forward is a step toward long-term professional satisfaction.

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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.