TOUGH MARKETS (PART I) – PARTNERS AND OTHER SENIOR ATTORNEYS

Candidates who are starting out in their search for a law firm position often overestimate their market value.  This is understandable.  Both positive thinking and self-confidence in your job search are to be generally encouraged.  However, it is also critical to get a truly realistic assessment of your market value, and thus your chances of landing a good job, at an early stage.  This is another area where a good, experienced legal recruiter can be invaluable.

In this first part of examining types of candidates that regularly find themselves in a “tough market,” we will focus on the group known as “senior attorneys.”  I mean “senior” in a very broad sense, in the way the law firms define it.  At about 1-2 years out of law school, you are a “junior associate.”  At 3-4 years or so, you are a “midlevel associate.”  And at about 5-6 years, you are a “senior associate,” a title that may extent several years further, depending on the firm.  After that point, firms consider candidates to be a “senior attorneys” – generally meaning too senior to be considered as any kind of level of associate.  Many senior attorneys are, of course, partners in their law firm (whether share or income).  Many other attorneys at that level, however, are not partners for whatever reason.  They may be of counsel, in house attorneys, government lawyers or solo practioners.  The term “senior attorney” covers both of these groups – both partners and non-partners that are too senior to be considered associates.


I frequently tell my senior attorney candidates that their value in the legal market in primarily dependent on three key factors – portable business, portable business and portable business.  Attorneys at the senior attorney level are generally required have portable business of about $500K for smaller firms up to $3M+ for major firms before they will even be considered.  In other words, the candidate must be able to at least keep themselves fully busy.   Of course, the senior attorneys who have substantial business are more likely to be partners in their firms (although there are many exceptions).  These candidates have high market value, and will often have a choice on where they can go.  Similarly, it is the non-partner attorneys that typically will not have substantial business (although again, there are exceptions).  Regardless of their title, it is the candidates who lack sufficient business who are in a tough market.  Many of these attorneys assume that because they are highly skilled, have a great reputation, possess more experience, etc., that this will greatly increase their market value.  In many industries, they might be correct.  Not so much in the legal industry, however.  Unless there is a highly exceptional situation where a ton of work is “falling out the door” and cannot be done by an associate, firms will have very little interest in senior attorneys who lack business.

What can senior attorneys without business do in this tough market?  Again, a good recruiter can be helpful in attempting to find an exceptional opportunity where portable business is not required.  One approach that will NOT work is to apply for associate positions.  Senior attorneys sometimes tell me that they are more skilled and experienced than the associate candidates, and some are even willing to work for a lot less money.  Even if true, the firms never hire them in an associate slot.  A better approach is for the senior attorney to network on their own in order to find the exceptional situation (where sufficient work is available to keep a senior attorney fully busy) in the smaller firms.  These firms, which often do not work with recruiters, are more likely to encounter this situation and to be more flexible in their hiring.  Candidates can also look in-house, which does not require portable business but is another tough market in itself.

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.