While it is possible to lateral as a partner into a New York City law firm with less than $1 million of business, the law firms that are receptive to this tend to be on the smaller side and/or have a lot of lower paying clients in fields like insurance defense, employment and so forth. In order to lateral in as a partner in the largest New York law firms, most law firms want at least a few million dollars in business and the most prestigious even more. This attorney had a few million dollars in business and was doing well but the firm made clear to him that even if he substantially increased his business he would not be able to be made a partner. This firm did not have a lot of need for partners in this office and he told me that they would not be interested in him.
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| Harrison Barnes |
The attorney was looking for a law firm in Boston that could service his sophisticated financial service clients. The attorney needed a national law firm and wanted the law firm to be based in Boston. I identified several prospects for and began discussions with several law firms about this attorney’s practice. Over the next few months, the attorney had several interviews with major Boston law firms. Ultimately, the attorney selected a strong Boston-based firm that had been selectively retiring much older partners and bringing in younger management attorneys. The attorney was excited about the opportunity because the firm provided them the opportunity to go to work for a major law firm and work with contemporaries who are assuming leadership roles in the management of the law firm.
This was an interesting placement and the attorney’s reasons for the move were interesting as well. At the most prestigious New York law firms, just coming up through the ranks as an associate and even developing a multimillion dollar book of business is often not enough to become a partner. In fact, at many of the most prestigious New York law firms it is actually just as prestige is be made counsel as it is to become a partner in large law firms within other cities. Attorneys that become counsel in major New York law firms often choose to relocate outside of that market. In many cases, relocating can be an excellent career move that can give attorneys more involvement in management, a better title and the feeling of more control over their future.
In addition, after leaving the New York law firm, the attorney was able to substantially increase their book of business. The attorney’s billing rate decreased, and they felt it was easier to attract clients as a consequence. The attorney’s existing clients also gave him more work with a lower billing rate. Finally, because the attorney had a partner title also helped him attract more business. Sometimes if an attorney has a glass ceiling in the firm the best they can do is leave. Some markets— such as major law firms in New York— often also act as glass ceilings that keep attorneys from reaching their full potential.
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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.
