Bankruptcy is a difficult practice area in which to become a partner. One of the dangers of bankruptcy is it tends to be a small practice area than most law firms which generate the most revenue— namely, corporate and litigation. Because this practice area does not generate as much revenue, it becomes very difficult once an attorney becomes senior to remain employed with a large law firm while billing rates comparable to partners. Bankruptcy is an excellent practice area but it is also one in which it is difficult to stay employed.
Despite these apparent drawbacks, there were occasionally some openings in major law firms for attorneys in bankruptcy. Most of these openings, though, were seeking attorneys with the typical 2 to 5 years of experience. Because I was not seeing any senior openings and did not expect to, I told the attorney that it was best to submit him to law firms that were seeking positions for attorneys less senior than him. This is a common strategy that I use when working with attorneys because if the market is not seeking someone exactly like my candidate there is no reason not to try finding openings that may not be hundred percent appropriate.
Despite a lack of openings, I marketed the attorney to about 20 firms over the course of six months, trying to find a position for him. He wanted to remain in a very prestigious law firm making a high salary. In order to get him a position, I told him that the search could take some time and we would need to potentially look at a lot of law firms. Many of the firms I sent him to did not have openings and agreed to look at his resume after I contacted them seeing if they might have some interest. One of those law firms was arguably a top-five prestigious firm in New York City. The law firm interviewed the attorney, and after several weeks extended an offer to him a few days before Christmas.
It was an outstanding result for this attorney to get a position because he ended up at a much more prestigious law firm than where he was currently working. This attorney was told he would be considered for counsel within two years, and joined the firm’s bankruptcy department with several important institutional clients that provided long-term potential stability for the attorney.
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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.
