Is it possible to change practice groups in Big Law? Forum

[Anonymous User]

If you work at a Big Law firm and are placed in a group that you do not want to be in, what are the chances that you can move groups? I am not talking about a complete overhaul here, i.e., litigation to corporate. Rather, just subject matter (environmental to labor and employment, for example).

Is it at all possible? How does one go about doing it?

[Anonymous User]

Very possible, depends on firm. I para'd before law school and there were plenty of folks who made the switch, typically from one finance practice to another, but the firm's bread and butter was finance so that might have been a confounding variable. I've met a few folks who also switched from lit to corporate because they just hated it and had the resume and grades to allow them to do that. But if you don't know what you want to do you should really take advantage of a summer program that's less structured and which allows you to dabble.

[Anonymous User]

This question depends on the firm. Some allow, some don't. If you're going to make a switch, obviously the earlier the better. But seriously, this is a firm specific question and you should ask your firm.

[Anonymous User]

OP here. How exactly does one go about addressing that with the firm without completely ruining their image of you? Moreover, given it is time sensitive, when is too late? When is too soon? And who should you talk to?

[Anonymous User]

From people I've talked to who have switched (and partners I've talked to who have helped facilitate it), I was told to work hard for a year and really try to go above and beyond to show them you're worth the hassle. Also, try to maintain a relationship with a partner and some associates in your desired practice area so he/ she can help you when the time comes (and so there are people in the group who actually really want you to switch over). Obviously it will be a PITA given everything else you'll be trying to do....

[dixiecupdrinking]

I know people who have done this by bringing it up with people in the group they want to switch to. May be good to put out feelers with an associate you trust in the group first to see if they're busy and would need more bodies, etc.

On preview, I also agree with the above that your first priority should be developing a reputation for working hard. I would guess the sweet spot to first raise it is some time between nine and eighteen months.