Experience is Not Enough – Senior Attorneys and Jobs in Law Firms

Summary: Why isn't having 10+ years of experience as an attorney seen by law firms as being more valuable?
 

I often receive calls that go something like this:

CALLER: “This is Clarence Darrow. I am interested in the litigation position in Chicago.”

ME: “You mean the one that is seeking a litigation attorney with “2+ years of experience?’”

CALLER: “That’s it. I have stellar litigation experience and I am a perfect fit for this job.”

ME: “Well, let’s talk a bit about you first. When and where did you graduate from law school?

CALLER: “1985 from State University Law School.”

The way these attorneys see it, an attorney who has practiced for 5, 10, 30 or 50 years certainly has “2+ years of experience.” I nevertheless explain to them that while their reasoning is technically valid, in the legal industry the terms “2+ years” or “2 or more years” really mean between 2-4 years out of law school. The attorney then points out that because they have far more experience than someone just 2-4 years out of law school, they would be much more valuable to the firm in that associate position.

I tell them that this view is understandable. In most other circumstances, if a company has two candidates that are virtually identical, except that one has 12 years of experience and the other only has two, one would usually expect the more experienced candidate to get hired. This is not how it typically works in law firms, however. Generally speaking, law firms will only hire lawyers that are within their desired range of years out of law school sought for a particular associate position. There are, of course, a few exceptions. For example, a firm seeking an associate with 2-4 years of experience may decide to hire a 5^th year or even a 6^th year associate if they have extraordinary credentials. Even then, firms are likely to have the more senior associate “step back” a year or so to fall back in the target range. But you won’t normally see an “18^th year associate” or someone out of law school for 30 years working as a 4^th year associate.

This means that if senior lawyers want to get jobs in major law firms, they will normally have to qualify for a partner position. But while experience is a legitimate factor for partner candidates (as is skill and other typical credentials), the three key factors that determine their value to law firms are: (1) portable business; (2) portable business; and (3) portable business.

In sum, even if you are Clarence Darrow – one of the most experienced, skilled and famous trial lawyers in this country’s history – firms will be very hesitant to hire you unless you can bring sufficient business to keep yourself busy full time. The primary (rare) exception to this rule is if the firm has a ton of extra complex work that can’t be done by anyone else in the firm. In such cases, more senior attorneys may sometimes be hired in a non-partner role, such as of counsel or staff attorney. For a discussion on effective job seeking strategies for senior lawyers without portable business, please see other BCG essays on the subject.

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.