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The Standard in Attorney Search and Placement
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In the legal profession, we’re taught that merit rules all—your academic record, law school pedigree, and work history determine your success. But after years of practicing at one of the most selective litigation firms in Los Angeles, I witnessed something that challenged everything I believed about how attorneys are hired and promoted. It started with a baffling hire—an associate whose credentials didn’t remotely match the firm’s usual standards. What unfolded next revealed a truth that few attorneys want to admit but every legal professional needs to understand: influence, not just achievement, often determines opportunity. This is the story of how one unlikely hiring decision exposed the extraordinary power of referrals—and why building the right relationships may be the most important move in your legal career. READ MORE >
When it comes to employment defense, large corporations and institutional clients often face complex and high-stakes disputes that require specialized expertise and personalized attention. In New York City, a number of small boutique law firms—each with fewer than 50 attorneys—have carved out a niche in this area, focusing exclusively on employment-related defense. These firms are known for their deep expertise in employment law, their ability to handle high-profile cases, and their commitment to providing tailored, cost-effective solutions to their clients. READ MORE >
Bankruptcy law is a highly specialized field, and when it comes to representing large institutional clients—such as corporations, financial institutions, and creditors—boutique law firms often stand out for their deep expertise, agility, and ability to handle complex, high-stakes cases. These firms are known for their focus on bankruptcy and restructuring matters, providing tailored solutions to clients navigating financial distress or complex reorganizations. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top bankruptcy boutique law firms that represent large institutional clients, along with their key practice areas and notable strengths. READ MORE >
The landscape of law firm hiring has never shifted so rapidly—or so dramatically—as it is in 2025. As profits-per-lawyer climbed 8% in 2024 despite headcount retrenchment, firms proved they can thrive by prioritizing productivity and targeted recruitment over sheer volume. Meanwhile, the traditional summer-associate pipeline contracted to its smallest median class size since 1993, forcing students to rethink the timing and tactics of their outreach. At the same time, lateral hiring rebounded with a 14% overall gain, signaling renewed appetite for experienced attorneys who can bill from day one. READ MORE >
New York City is a global leader in healthcare law, home to a wide range of law firms—from boutique practices to full-service powerhouses—that specialize in health transactional law, healthcare defense, regulatory compliance, and healthcare litigation. These firms are known for their ability to navigate the complex and ever-changing healthcare landscape, providing tailored solutions to hospitals, healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and other stakeholders in the healthcare industry. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top law firms in NYC with strong healthcare practices, including both boutique and full-service firms, along with their key practice areas and notable strengths. READ MORE >
Michigan is home to several boutique law firms that excel in handling sophisticated commercial litigation, including complex business disputes, high-stakes litigation, and regulatory matters. These firms are known for their specialized expertise, agility, and ability to provide tailored solutions to their clients. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top boutique commercial litigation firms in Michigan, along with their key practice areas and notable strengths. READ MORE >
Washington, D.C., is a powerhouse for boutique litigation law firms, offering specialized expertise in areas such as appellate litigation, white-collar defense, complex civil litigation, and regulatory disputes. These firms are known for their ability to handle high-stakes cases, their deep industry knowledge, and their personalized approach to client service. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top boutique litigation firms in D.C., along with their key practice areas and notable achievements. READ MORE >
Pennsylvania is a hub for intellectual property (IP) litigation, with a wide range of law firms specializing in patent, trademark, and copyright disputes. From boutique firms focusing exclusively on IP to full-service firms with robust IP practices, the state offers a diverse array of options for clients and attorneys alike. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of top IP litigation firms in Pennsylvania, including both boutique and full-service firms, along with their key areas of expertise and notable achievements. READ MORE >
The legal profession is at a pivotal point, embracing remote work with open arms. The surge in remote attorney jobs is not just a response to recent global changes but a long-term evolution driven by technology, the need for flexibility, and the desire to tap into a global talent pool. Whether you're an intellectual property lawyer innovating from your home office, an immigration attorney with clients across continents, or a securities law specialist, remote positions offer unprecedented opportunities. READ MORE >
At BCG Attorney Search, we believe that an abundance of opportunities in your account is not something to be overwhelmed by—it’s a powerful tool designed to give you the best chance of success. In fact, our process intentionally exposes you to a wide array of potential positions so you can build a robust network and stay top of mind for law firms. To learn more about why your account is filled with so many opportunities, click here. READ MORE >
In the legal world, landing the right position isn’t just about what’s on your resume—it’s also about how you present yourself, the story you tell, and the connection you build with your potential employer. Over my 25 years of experience in the legal recruitment field, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepared candidate can transform an interview into an opportunity. Today, I want to share a comprehensive guide that covers all the major points—from interview etiquette and dress to articulating your reasons for seeking a new position, and addressing the crucial questions every interviewer asks: “Can you do the job?”, “Will you commit to the job?”, “Can you be managed?”, and “Do you want the job?” READ MORE >
Merging a solo practice or small law firm into a larger firm is one of the most effective strategies for attorneys seeking greater financial stability, increased revenue, expanded client opportunities, and reduced administrative burdens. Many solo practitioners and small firm attorneys struggle with inconsistent cash flow, high overhead costs, limited growth potential, and the constant challenge of managing operations while practicing law. By joining a larger firm, attorneys can access powerful resources, leverage established brand recognition, attract high-value clients, and gain access to institutional business that would otherwise be out of reach. READ MORE >
Executive Summary In a legal market defined by constant change and fierce competition, achieving both professional success and personal fulfillment is a challenge many attorneys face. This article explores the strategies and mindset needed to build a rewarding legal career. Key takeaways include:
The global legal industry is a cornerstone of modern economies, generating immense revenue while addressing the complex needs of corporations, governments, and individuals. At the forefront of this sector are the world’s largest law firms, ranked by revenue, often dubbed "Big Law." These firms wield vast resources, global networks, and unparalleled expertise to handle high-stakes legal matters. This article provides an exhaustive examination of these revenue giants, expanding beyond basic rankings like the AmLaw Global 200 to explore their histories, strategies, and the forces driving their success as of February 27, 2025. READ MORE >
In today’s evolving legal landscape, the field of trust and estates law stands out as one of the most dynamic and lucrative practice areas available. As the population ages and wealth concentrates in select regions, there is a growing demand for attorneys who specialize in estate planning, wealth preservation, and trust administration.This comprehensive career guide is designed to help trust and estates attorneys navigate their career paths, understand the importance of specialization, and leverage job search opportunities for long-term professional success. Drawing on insights from industry trends, practical experience, and our own expertise at BCG Attorney Search, this guide will explore why trust and estates law is marketable, the benefits of taking over the books of business from senior attorneys, the value of local networking, the reasons to consider moving firms, and why compensation should not be the sole focus in your career decisions. READ MORE >
Over my 25‑year career in legal recruitment, I’ve seen firsthand how small law firms and solo practitioners face unique challenges in hiring top legal talent and sustaining long-term growth. In one particularly candid conversation with a Houston-based firm owner, I discussed the hurdles of high turnover, the pitfalls of fixed-salary models, and the need for a stable, committed team—insights that have shaped my approach to recruitment and compensation. READ MORE >
The role of patent attorneys has been undergoing significant changes in recent years due to two major forces: artificial intelligence (AI) and corporate restructurings. AI-driven automation has streamlined many aspects of patent law, from prior art searches to drafting applications, reducing the time and effort traditionally required for these tasks. At the same time, corporate restructurings—whether through mergers, acquisitions, or internal reorganization—are reshaping the demand for patent attorneys by redistributing intellectual property (IP) portfolios and altering business strategies. READ MORE >
Few areas of law carry universal relevance and enduring importance as estate planning. Unlike specialized fields that may cater to select circumstances or unfortunate events, estate planning exists as a necessity, touching the lives of virtually every individual. In a world where asset ownership, mortality, and taxation are inevitable, trusts and estates attorneys are more valuable than ever. READ MORE >
MORE RESOURCES
"Working with BCG was great. It was very communicative. They were not just talking to me and letting the ball roll,..." Read more Joanne HodgeGeorgetown University School of Law, Class Of 2004Placed at Harris Beach PLLC
"BCG Attorney Search has good market punctuation and is easy to work with. I didn't really have to do anything."Clyde CraneThe George Washington University Law School, Class Of 2009Placed at Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt.
"My favorite things about working with BCG Attorney Search were the search engine or the way..." Read more Ryan McNishUniversity of Notre Dame, Class Of 2014Placed at Jenner & Block, L.L.P.
"Becca was great. She was super supportive and very communicative. She emphasized that..." Read moreL. D.New York University School of Law, Class Of 2012Placed at Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP.
"I have enjoyed working with my recruiter and I look forward to learning more from you in the future."Jiayi JiangBrooklyn Law School, Class of 2010Brooklyn, NY
"I think BCG's website is good. Working with BCG helped with my job search because they help..." Read more Wei-Cheng LaiPh.D. Candidate, Class Of 2013Placed at Slater & Matsil, L.L.P.
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