Navigating Law Firm Moves: A Guide for Biglaw Associates
As a former Biglaw attorney turned legal recruiter, I’ve seen firsthand how the priorities of associates evolve as they navigate their careers. When I practiced in Willkie’s Real Estate group in New York, I experienced the incredible opportunities that a global firm provides—and the unique challenges that come with it.
Today, as a recruiter, I have the privilege of guiding associates as they make informed and strategic decisions to level up their practices. Now more than ever, associates are targeting moves to another firm as a means to take control of their growth trajectory.
My goal here is to provide a high-level overview as to why a change in firms may be worth considering, what makes certain platforms particularly appealing, and how Biglaw associates can best position themselves for a strategic move.
Why Associates Consider a Move
It’s no secret that Biglaw can be both exhilarating and exhausting. The prestige, pay, and sophisticated work are unmatched, but the long hours and intense demands can wear down even the most driven attorneys. For many associates, a move to another firm offers a chance to recalibrate their careers—whether that means finding a firm with a better cultural fit, broadening their practice exposure, or optimizing long-term optionality.
Here are some of the most common reasons associates contemplate a move:
Practice Group Realignment
Sometimes, an associate’s substantive interests don’t fully align with their practice and platform. For example, if you’re passionate about representing top GPs in fund formation matters, but your firm’s strength is on public M&A, targeting a more robust private funds practice would be a big step up in value.
Work-Life Balance
While no Biglaw job is "easy," some firms are more mindful about associate workloads and offer better resources for maintaining a semblance of balance. Even more predictability around weekend and/or holiday work can make a difference.
Elevation/Exit Prospects
If elevation feels like a black box—or simply unattainable—associates often look for firms with more transparent and realistic advancement opportunities. Alternatively, many associates seek another firm and practice that would yield more appealing and/or attainable in-house exit options.
Economics
Whether it’s a signing bonus, larger end-of-year bonus, or different salary scale, compensation remains a driving factor for many associates considering a move.
Relocation or Market Focus
Personal reasons, like moving back home or a partner’s job relocation, or professional ones, like proximity to a specific industry hub, often drive firm moves.
What Makes a Firm Stand Out
Firms seeking to attract top talent in today’s market need to offer more value than a paycheck. After years of operating in this industry, here are some ways that leading practices stand out:
Commitment to Investment and Growth
Partners that can articulate a thoughtful short and long-term integration plan and investment in its new hires will have a big advantage. Associates reasonably want to feel like their new firm sees them not only as a valued asset, but a human with interests outside of work.
Thoughtful Mentorship and Collaboration
Lawyers thrive in environments where senior attorneys are not only skilled practitioners, but also supportive mentors and effective managers. A collaborative culture can be the difference between sustainability and burnout.
Sophisticated Clients and Deals
Working on cutting-edge matters—whether it’s guiding a startup from inception through exit or closing a high-stakes real estate transaction—is a big draw for many associates. Similarly captivating is quality access to high-growth industries.
Tips for a Successful Move
If you’re considering a move, here are a few tips on how to approach the process strategically:
Find One Skilled Recruiter You Trust
This is paramount. A great recruiter isn’t just someone who circulates your resume to a generic inbox—they’re a true partner. They’ll use creativity and access to identify targets you might not, create an optimal submission package, execute outreach directly to the right partners and coach you through meetings with the same, use leverage to negotiate on your behalf, and deliver meaningful offers with optimal terms.
Do Your Research
Dig in thoroughly to understand what each firm and group brings to the table—practice area strengths, culture, client base, future optionality—and what they expect from their associates in return. Some of this diligence can be conducted up-front, and some is best addressed post-offer.
Rank Your Priorities
What do you value most and what is a want vs. a need? Whether it’s better mentorship, exposure to a certain type of work/client, or more control over your schedule, identifying your priorities will help you execute the ideal move.
Leverage Your Network
Don’t overlook the power of your personal and professional connections. Sometimes a conversation with a former colleague, classmate, friend, or mentor can provide invaluable insights. This is especially true with respect to intangibles such as culture.
Prepare to Tell Your Authentic Story
Be ready to explain not just what you’ve done, but why you’re looking to make a change and why the firm you’re speaking with represents a sensible target. Articulating a genuine and compelling narrative will best resonate with partners and enable you to make an informed decision.
Biglaw associates are some of the most ambitious professionals out there and testing the market should always be done with care. If you’re considering making a move, take the time to think critically about what you want—and don’t hesitate to lean on trusted advisors to help you navigate the process. A move to another major firm is more than just a job change; it’s an opportunity to level up your career and lifestyle.
Having spent years as a Biglaw associate and recruiter, I’ve seen how impactful the right move can be—and I’m here to help you make it happen. Let’s connect if you’d like to learn more about how I prioritize a long-term and strategic partnership with each of my associate clients.
