A Lawyer’s Guide to Making a Career Move
Is It Time for a Career Move? Here’s How to Navigate the Process Like a Pro
As an attorney, you’ve worked hard to build your career. But there comes a point when you start to ask yourself: Am I in the right place? Whether you’re seeking better compensation, a stronger platform for career growth, or simply a cultural shift, making a lateral move can be a game-changing decision—but also an intimidating one.
If you're considering a transition, here’s what you need to know to make your move strategically, confidentially, and successfully.
1. Understanding When It’s Time to Make a Move
Not sure if a lateral move is right for you? Here are some key signs that it may be time for a change:
✔ You’ve hit a ceiling in your current firm – Limited growth opportunities, lack of mentorship, or slow partnership tracks can signal that it’s time to explore new options.
✔ Your compensation isn’t keeping up with the market – If your salary and bonuses aren’t competitive, other firms may offer better financial incentives.
✔ Your firm’s culture doesn’t align with your values – If the firm’s leadership, policies, or work-life balance don’t match your needs, a lateral move could help you find a better fit.
✔ You want to shift practice areas – If your interests have evolved and you want to specialize in a different field, moving laterally can provide the opportunity to pivot.
✔ Your firm isn’t giving you the resources to succeed – Whether it's a lack of business development support, marketing assistance, or insufficient casework, the right firm can offer the tools to elevate your practice.
If one or more of these apply to you, it’s worth exploring new opportunities—but doing so strategically and confidentially is key.
2. What to Consider Before Making a Lateral Move
Before jumping into a job search, take the time to evaluate your priorities:
Firm Reputation & Stability – Is the firm financially stable? What’s its reputation in the industry?
Compensation & Bonus Structure – Beyond base salary, consider the bonus structure, equity options, and benefits.
Partnership Track & Career Advancement – Will the move put you on a faster or clearer path to partnership?
Practice Growth & Client Development – Does the firm support business development? Will you have access to the right clients and cases?
Firm Culture & Work-Life Balance – Will this new firm provide a better environment for you professionally and personally?
Moving laterally isn't just about getting a new job—it’s about finding the right long-term fit.
3. How a Legal Recruiter Can Give You an Edge
Trying to manage a full-time legal career while searching for a new opportunity can feel overwhelming. That’s where a legal recruiter comes in.
At Milestone Legal Search, we specialize in lateral attorney placements, helping you:
Access exclusive, unposted opportunities – Many firms hire discreetly and don’t post open positions publicly.
Stay confidential – We ensure your current employer never finds out about your search.
Negotiate competitive offers – From salary to benefits, we advocate for your best interests.
Save time – We handle interview coordination, application processes, and firm research so you can focus on your job.
Find the right culture fit – We go beyond resumes and job descriptions to match you with a firm that aligns with your values and career goals.
4. The Step-by-Step Lateral Move Process
Wondering what the process looks like? Here’s a breakdown of how we help attorneys make smooth, strategic moves:
Step 1: Consultation & Market Assessment
We start by learning about your goals, practice area, and career aspirations, then provide an honest market assessment based on our industry expertise.
Step 2: Opportunity Mapping & Firm Targeting
We identify the best law firms or in-house opportunities that align with your career path and introduce you to exclusive unposted roles.
Step 3: Resume & Application Strategy
We work with you to refine your resume, deal sheet, and business plan, crafting a compelling narrative that sets you apart.
Step 4: Confidential Interviews & Feedback
We arrange and prepare you for interviews, providing insights into each firm’s hiring criteria and feedback to fine-tune your approach.
Step 5: Offer Negotiation & Decision Support
We handle negotiations on salary, benefits, and firm expectations, ensuring you receive the best possible offer.
Step 6: Transition Guidance & Onboarding
Once you accept an offer, we help navigate your exit from your current firm and prepare for a seamless transition into your new role.
5. Ready to Take the Next Step? Let’s Talk.
Making a lateral move can be one of the most impactful decisions of your career—but you don’t have to do it alone.
At Milestone Legal Search, we provide personalized, confidential, and strategic legal recruiting services to help you land the right opportunity—not just any opportunity.
📩 Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward your next big career milestone.