One of the problems when an attorney takes a position as a contract attorney is that it often will look like there is something wrong with them. The concern may be that the attorney could not get another job or left their last job without a position. Not able to get another job indicates the attorney may not have been hungry enough to pound the pavement to find a new position. Leaving a job without a job connotes to employers that the attorney may have been fired—or at least something went wrong— from their last job. Law firms want to hire attorneys that are not problems and that have the ability to get other positions. In addition, a law firm would much prefer to hire someone who’s currently employed than someone working as a contract attorney. Attorneys that work as contract attorneys typically work under associates and do busy work that does not translate into the sort of marketable experience that most law firms want. Finally, if an attorney is working as a contract attorney it suggests they may want the flexibility that goes along with working as a contract attorney and may not be interested in committing to the rigors required to practice law at a high level. The longer an attorney as a contract attorney the more difficult it is for them to transition back to a strong law firm.
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The one benefit that this attorney had in their search was that at the time they were looking real estate was extraordinarily slow practice area. Because real estate was slow, it was understandable there were not many market opportunities for the attorney. With an absence of opportunities, I was able to explain to firms that the attorney was not working as a contract attorney by choice but because there were simply no jobs in the area of the country they were trying to find a job in. Furthermore, they left their last job once the partners he worked for left to go to another firm that did not allow any associates to be brought with the new partners. Due to this, the attorneys reason for being suddenly unemployed and not being able to find a job or justifiable in the eyes of the firms I ended up introducing them to.
Shortly after introducing the attorney to one strong midsize firm, the law firm interviewed and made them an offer. Prior to me getting involved, the attorney had sent himself to almost all the large law firms and midsize firms in his market—all unsuccessfully. I was able to succeed and close the deal with the firm that I found because I was able to explain his reasons for being unemployed and working as a contract attorney and a much more convincing way than he had been able to do so in his own application materials. The nice thing about using a talented recruiter is that the recruiter has the ability to frame and attorneys experience in a way that is attractive to firms and not the opposite.
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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.
