Lateraling/Bidding Forum

[Anonymous User]

Looking at my career from a more holistic view, I want the experience of working at a prestigious T-something firm. However, I also would like to move back to a smaller market later in my career (re: 3-4 years after working as an associate elsewhere). To this end, my question is whether the prospect of lateraling from a t-10 firm to a smaller market is relatively easy and also whether I'd be at any advantage/disadvantage for doing so.

Thanks!

[thesealocust]

There aren't T-10 firms strictly speaking, it's not like law schools. Geography and practice area are more important than whatever Vault is peddling. Look at chambers & partners for a more realistic view.

That being said, moving from a 'top' firm - however defined - to a firm in a smaller market is both common and advantageous from a career point of view. In moments of candor I have heard several attorneys from smaller market firms say as much flatly when asked about where to begin a legal career.

[seriouslyinformative]

There aren't T-10 firms strictly speaking

...but if you look at a lot of lateral postings, you'll see some firms asking for associates from a top 10 firm. What do you think that's referring to? My opinion: It's referring to about 15-20 firms that have a legitimate claim to being a top 10 firm.

[Anonymous User]

as a follow-up, think there'd be hard feelings if I am a current SA at a firm in the smaller market and end up going to a T-something firm and then try to come back in 3 years?

[thesealocust]

as a follow-up, think there'd be hard feelings if I am a current SA at a firm in the smaller market and end up going to a T-something firm and then try to come back in 3 years?

Nope.