Can UK Lawyers Break Into Silicon Valley? Here's What You Need to Know

Description

In this Q&A video, Harrison Barnes discusses the possibility of attorneys from England being hired by Silicon Valley firms. While it's definitely possible, he highlights several challenges that firms consider, such as bar admission and visa sponsorship, which may only be valid for a limited time. Barnes also points out that attorneys from other countries are competing with local candidates, and firms are more likely to hire internationally if there is a shortage of talent in that specific market. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the firm's perspective and the risks involved in relocating internationally for a job.

Question:
I am in England. Do Silicon Valley firms hire from the London market?

Answer:
Anytime you're trying to make a move to a firm, you need to look at it from the firm's standpoint. There are definitely cases where people from England get hired by firms in New York, and people from Canada get hired by firms in both New York and Silicon Valley. It's absolutely possible—by no means impossible—but it does come with challenges. The biggest consideration is how the firm views the hire. If they're moving someone from England to Silicon Valley, the first issue is likely bar admission. You would probably need to pass the bar exam, and then the firm would have to sponsor your visa, which may only be valid for a few years. After that, sponsorship might not continue, which presents a risk. Additionally, being from another country means your family might still be abroad, which is another factor firms consider. You're also competing with attorneys already based in Silicon Valley. If firms have enough qualified local candidates, they have little incentive to hire internationally—unless there's a shortage of attorneys in that specific market.