Because I clerked for a federal district court judge in the Southern District of Florida, I decided to attend a happy hour for current and former Southern District of Florida law clerks. Unfortunately for me, all of the mid-level associates at the happy hour were happily employed and not seeking to lateral at the time. So I began speaking with this candidate, a senior litigation associate who had formerly clerked for a prominent district court judge in the Southern District of Florida. This candidate happened to lead the Broward County Chapter of the Florida Bar Association, Federal Clerks Division and regularly organized events for former and present federal clerks in South Florida and was very highly regarded by everyone in the community. In fact, he had been recognized as a Super Lawyers "Rising Star" for five consecutive years.
Even though he was not a mid-level and did not attend a top law school, I decided to tell him about the firm. I told this candidate that the firm was seeking mid-levels from top law schools, but he wanted to be considered anyway, as he was seeking a platform to develop business and litigate complex cases without counterproductive bureaucracy and thought that this particular boutique would be a great fit.
So I sent this candidate, along with a few other candidates who looked better on paper (better class years and educational backgrounds) to the firm. The firm requested multiple writing samples from each candidate and let me know that the candidates' writing samples would be the single most important factor in the firm's hiring decisions. This particular candidate's writing samples were exceptional.
The firm interviewed a few of the candidates I sent them and, much to my surprise, ultimately decided to hire this candidate even though he was the only candidate I sent them who neither went to a top law school nor was a mid-level. Nevertheless, they saw, like I saw, that this candidate had a lot going for him. Not only was he a phenomenal writer, but he was very well-connected and highly regarded amongst members of the federal judiciary in the Southern District of Florida, he was an extremely hard worker, an excellent litigator, extremely bright, a nice guy, and a team player who would make a fantastic addition to any trial team.
The firm offered him an exceptionally high salary, along with a short track to partnership, and the candidate quickly accepted! I'm sure this candidate will be extremely successful at this fancy litigation boutique and I wish him the very best of luck there!
This placement goes to show you that you should never preemptively count yourself out. This candidate had the confidence to apply to a position despite not fitting the job description perfectly and, nevertheless, beat out other candidates who did match the description, but were lacking his own unique (and very valuable) qualities that ultimately made him the best fit for this firm.
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.
