The Importance of Conflicts in Law Firm Applications

I often encounter candidates who have previously applied to a particular law firm – either on their own or through another recruiter.  Sometimes, they are frustrated because they have heard nothing in response, and they want me to do something about it.  Specifically, they want me to reapply to the particular law firm on their behalf and use my connections or long-term relationship with the particular law firm to get them the interview they believe they so well deserve.  Whatever the merits of their belief, I have to inform these candidates that I cannot help them with that particular law firm.  This is because of conflicts.  Once a candidate has applied to a law firm for a particular position, the firm will not accept subsequent applications from that same candidate.  (However, the candidate is not precluded from applying for a different position in the same law firm in the future).  If a law firm receives a second application for the same position from the same candidate, and at least one of the applications involves a recruiter, then a conflict situation is created.  Specifically, a potential dispute arises over whether the recruiter, or which recruiter, is entitled to a fee if the firm ultimately hires that candidate.  Obviously, recruiters do not like to be put in this position, where they may end up doing substantial work for no chance of compensation.  The firms do not like it either, because it creates the potential for legal action from one or more recruiters, as well as an administrative headache.  And it is bad for the candidate, who appears to the firm as someone who lacks the organization and professionalism to know what they are doing in their job search.  For these reasons, sending multiple applications for the same job – especially through recruiters – accomplishes nothing and harms everybody.  This is also true for candidates who send multiple applications on their own.  While they may not create a potential fee dispute, they still project an undesirable image of annoyance, desperation and/or incompetence to the firm.


I also occasionally encounter this conflict issues with candidates who have not kept careful track of what applications they have sent to which firms through what recruiters, if any.  One candidate in particular wanted me to contact his other two recruiters and piece together where and through whom he had previously sent scores of applications so that I could send out new applications without creating a conflict.  I explained to him that it is the responsibility of the candidate, not the recruiter, to keep complete track of their own job search.  Of course, recruiters should keep track of which applications they send out.  But they are under no obligation to play detective and try to discover where else the candidate has applied through what recruiters – even assuming these competing recruiters would want to provide this confidential information.  In sum, candidates should only apply for a particular position at a firm once, and they should make sure that their only shot is their best one.
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.