For this reason, firms are skeptical of lateral candidates who are applying without any law firm experience - in some cases not even having spent a summer as a summer associate at a firm. When firms review the resume of someone who has worked exclusively in another context like government or public interest, the firms get nervous that the person is "untested" and because firms are risk averse they will generally pass on that candidate. Firms feel that the candidate must not be very interested in law firm life - having never even tried it even for a summer - and they further worry that they will bring the attorney in, train him or her in law firm life, and then the attorney will get bored or disenchanted and leave. The logic is that someone destined to succeed in a law firm probably would have taken steps at some point prior to several years after law school graduation to join one.
But there are exceptions to every rule, as demonstrated by this case study. In this case, a terrifically talented third-year associate with an exclusively public interest and clerkship past was able to defy the odds and secure a position at a sophisticated boutique law firm. There were several distinctive features about this candidate that inspired me to work with her, and help her get a law firm job. She had done very well academically at a Top-15 school and had also done very well at a leading liberal arts college. She had done Journal work in law school and participated in significant law school clinics, clearly excelling in all of those clinics and garnering the respect of her supervisors. Upon graduation, she accepted a prestigious public interest fellowship to work for a leading impact litigation organization and in the course of the position she had gotten significant litigation and trial experience that she never would have gotten as a junior associate in a law firm. She had taken and defended depositions, successfully first-chaired trials, and even communicated with the media on some of her high-profile cases. She also clerked for a federal magistrate judge, which gave her exposure to more mainstream commercial litigation.
This candidate's work ethic and work product was impeccable. She was responsive, gracious, reliable, and likable. She produced one of the most meticulous and detailed resumes I have ever seen from someone at her level, and she provided me with numerous writing samples, each having its own cover page describing the nature of the case, major issues, and her unique input in the matter. It was very clear to me that this candidate was committed to excellence in everything she did, and I knew that would translate into her work within a law firm. Additionally, I had many in-depth discussions with her about her goals and trajectory and law firm life and I was convinced that she had evaluated all angles and wanted very much to join a firm and grow as a lawyer within that context.
So we got down to work, casting broadly with firms of various sizes and specialties, and with and without openings. We opened up her search to different types of litigation that intersected on some level with her background and she approved all of the firms I sent her. Her talent showed through, and she got several interviews despite never having worked in a law firm. She eventually found her perfect fit with a sophisticated boutique firm in a major market, where she would be working on large and complex, yet socially impactful, cases.
The lesson from this case study is that firms want to hire people who have experience working in law firms. But if you are an exceptional candidate in terms of your academics, work ethic, and all around commitment to excellence, and you make a convincing case why you will fit into the law firm world, you can find a law firm position.
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.
