This candidate had graduated during the height of the Great Recession, and despite completing a summer associateship with a well-known firm in the Midwest during the summer after her 2L year, did not return to the firm upon graduation. She opted instead to work as a judicial law clerk, and received her first opportunity in private practice at a regionally-ranked firm out east (where she had attended college). She began honing her skills in premises liability, construction, insurance coverage, discrimination, and commercial cases, and gained hands-on experience drafting and arguing dispositive motions and pleadings and conducting depositions. After this initial law firm experience, this candidate and her family moved back to the Midwest, where she joined a highly regarded boutique practice. She gained experience in a wide variety of civil cases, including various complex commercial matters.
When this candidate came to BCG, she had been practicing with her current firm for over five years. While she enjoyed the work and was a highly-valued associate, she felt that she had room to grow in her career and was seeking an opportunity for something new where she could continue to perform the sophisticated, fast-paced work that she loves. She was open with respect to level of entry, given that she was a senior associate at the time of her search. BCG recognized that while this candidate's search would be unconventional given her seniority and current position at a smaller/ boutique firm, she had stellar academic credentials, a highly-impressive resume, and a strong work ethic. Understanding that the search may take some time, BCG and this candidate worked together for many months to sniff out unique opportunities that could be the right fit.
Over time, this candidate received multiple interview requests from several highly-regarded boutique firms or satellite offices of national firms in the area. Some of these opportunities ultimately sought more junior candidates, but were open to and interested in speaking with this candidate given her reciprocal interest and skillset. Various opportunities were passed by, either by the candidate or the firm, as this candidate was reluctant to make a move unless it felt right - and some firms were reluctant to take on a more senior associate such as this candidate. After working together for an extended period of time, an opportunity arose with a small but prestigious boutique litigation firm that had been looking for highly-credentialed candidates in the area. The firm was impressed by this candidate's resume, and opted to meet with her. Feeling a cultural fit right away, this firm progressed quickly with her candidacy, and she was extended an offer. Our candidate felt that this was the opportunity she had been searching for, and was honored to join the small and highly-collaborative team for the next stage of her career!
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.