He and I began working together to assess his options of returning to a sophisticated appellate practice at a high-level firm in D.C. One difficulty present was that the candidate did not have any portable business (when we typically need a substantial amount to look at the firms he was interested in at his level) because 1) his appellate clients are not "repeat" clients - or at least they hope not to be, 2) many clients were institutional clients of the firm, and 3) he had left his firm. It is challenging to approach firms with an aim to be reinstated at a high level and with the accompanying compensation expectations without the substantial portables that would justify the compensation. We applied to a good number of firms in the D.C. area and while many firms were impressed by the candidate's background and made inquiries, the business question was the one asked first and, ultimately, the one that led many firms to pass because they were unable to make the business case for his practice. We did obtain seven interviews for the candidate but, six of the seven passed after the initial meeting because of the lack of portables.
One firm was very impressed with the candidate's credentials and experience but did not have a need in the appellate group in D.C. They spoke with their various litigation practice groups and decided that their product liability group in Seattle would like to speak with him. This group is comprised of a few former Supreme Court clerks (like my candidate) who work very closely with one major manufacturer of planes. The firm met with the candidate to explore the opportunities and at first, it was presumed that if the candidate joined, he would be working with the group out of the D.C. office. As the talks continued, the firm asked the candidate to entertain the idea of moving to Seattle and the candidate and his wife soon became interested in the area. The firm went back to the client to ensure that the client was open to adding the candidate to their service team and also assessed needs to see whether the team necessitated the addition of a senior attorney. While the need appeared to be present, the firm's management committee decided the business case could not be made to bring on the attorney as a partner without business. We then went back to the firm to ask them to consider the attorney as a counsel level candidate and this is when the firm was able to make the case to management to bring on the attorney. The candidate made the move to Seattle and is excited to have the opportunity to refocus his practice even at such a senior level.
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.
