BigLaw Mid-Level Transactional Tax Associate with Some Moves Secures Another Large Law Position, from New York to Houston and Back to New York | BCGSearch.com

BigLaw Mid-Level Transactional Tax Associate with Some Moves Secures Another Large Law Position, from New York to Houston and Back to New York

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This candidate had strong credentials (New York University for both college and law school) but he had been at three firms in two different cities within the span of three years. His two initial firms in New York were both top notch firms and he said he had moved to another strong AmLaw 100 firm in Houston for family reasons - he and his wife had had their first baby and his wife wanted to be close to her family in Houston for support and assistance with raising the baby. The problem was, the candidate had found his position in Houston "too quickly" and his wife had remained in New York with their baby. After a number of months of the candidate visiting his family in New York every weekend, his wife decided she would not, in fact, be moving to Houston as was their plan, and that she would actually be divorcing my candidate. It was at this time that the candidate decided he needed to be back in New York full-time in order to be close to his baby daughter. This is when he reached out to me for assistance with a job search in New York, having been in Houston, at his third firm, for only 9 months.
BigLaw Mid-Level Transactional Tax Associate with Some Moves Secures Another Large Law Position, from New York to Houston and Back to New York

I targeted not only tax positions in New York, but also transactional ones. The candidate's practice had been one of deal structurings and support on financings, stock purchase agreements, and mergers and acquisitons. His application received a good bit of attention but the initial questions from most every firms included: 1) why so many moves, 2) why Houston, and 3) why does he want to leave yet another firm so soon and return to New York? We responded positively and authentically that his first move in New York was an opportunistic one of growth and one to a better firm with a more sophisticated practice, and then we had had to explain his personal family circumstances that first brought Houston onto the map for him and that were not leading him back to New York.

 
From a large number of applications, we received two interviews, one with a large law firm that is actually Houston-based, and one with a small firm in Long Island. For the small firm, the compensation would be significantly lower than anything the candidate had ever made but he was still willing to interview with the firm as he felt he could not close any doors since there were so few opening and he did not want to "bank" on the other large firm working out.
 
The large firm turned out to have an urgent need and they really liked my candidate. The moved quickly and even offered a signing bonus. The small firm did interview him but ended up passing, expressing a concern with the candidate truly coming to them and actually staying. My candidate was very happy to be able to make it back to New York to be with his daughter.
 
Unfortunately, this story does not end happily. Within three months of having been at his new firm, the candidate had a breakdown of sorts, citing stress due to his divorce proceedings. He resigned from the firm and moved to Rhode Island to live with his parents. The firm was pretty understanding and respectful of the situation, and very patient in receiving the refund.

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.
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