This candidate was excited and honored to receive a Summer Associateship with a nationally ranked firm in a neighboring state. During his clerkship, he worked mainly with the firm's business litigation practice group, drafting motions and research memoranda. He saw litigation as a "traditional" legal path, and was appreciative of the opportunity to work at a highly-regarded firm. He received an offer to join upon graduation, and returned to the firm's business litigation team, where he had been for a little over a year before reaching out to BCG. This candidate had been very appreciative of his first opportunity out of law school and to perform sophisticated commercial litigation work. However, he had begun to realize that a career on the transactional side of the legal field might better align with his continued interest in the business world, including emerging growth companies and venture capital. He felt that this type of a legal role would also augment his inclination towards entrepreneurialism, both in working with like-minded clients as well as with respect to his own practice and developing a client base and business portfolio over time. Still feeling very connected to his home city in the Midwest, he also desired to look for a new opportunity back in the area, where he would not only be closer to family and friends, but also retain both personal and professional connections that could help support future business development efforts over time.
Despite being a junior candidate making a move very early in his career, as well as desiring to make a "lane change" in his area of practice - which can be a challenging proposition in a lateral move - BCG saw a strong opportunity for this candidate to find a new role back in his home state. A few differing factors contributed to this perception of opportunity. First, the state of the economy has been contributing to a very high demand for smart, talented junior or mid-level transactional lawyers. Despite not having hands-on skills in this area in private practice as of yet, this candidate demonstrated high potential, and was looking during a time when law firms might be willing to take this type of lateral candidate given the state of the market and need for more transactional attorneys. Second, this candidate had a compelling rationale and story behind his desire to transition to corporate work. He had a strong undergraduate business degree, had worked in finance for multiple years, and had worked hard to earn a joint graduate degree in both law and business at a top school. His focus on entrepreneurialism would certainly allow him to be able to identify with business clients seeking to incorporate, enter into M&A transactions, and run their businesses. Last, this candidate desired to return to his Midwestern home where he had maintained strong ties in both his personal life and in the professional community. His entrepreneurial spirit would also lend itself towards his own business development in a transactional-focused practice, and returning to the area would provide him with that platform.
This candidate generated interest right away from a national firm with its headquarters in our candidate's hometown, and he was able to capitalize on a visit home for personal reasons to also schedule interviews. While the firm had been looking for a lateral transactional associate with relevant experience, they were excited about this candidate's demonstrated passion for the business world, ability to relate to the firm's business clientele, great academic credentials, and rationale for searching back in his hometown and his ties to the area. After meeting with him, they were convinced of his potential and the value he could bring to the firm. Our candidate was likewise incredibly excited about the opportunity presented - both to return home and transition to a corporate role at a highly-esteemed, national firm with sophisticated work. He was extended an offer and gladly accepted. We were very honored to work with this candidate and know he has found a legal path that fully aligns with his skills and passions.
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.
