Asking to return to my old firm after lateral? Forum

[Anonymous User]

I lateralled about 5 to 6 months ago from a large firm to a boutique firm largely to move cities for personal reasons. My old firm did offer for me to work out of their office in the city I wanted to move to, but no one from my practice group was in that city. I am really miserable at my new firm and really want to leave. I left on good terms and my old firm has lost a lot of associates. In this hot market is it worth asking my old firm if they will take me back?

[Anonymous User]

I would ask. The worst they could do is say no, in which case you'd be in the same position you are now.

[Anonymous User]

I resigned a few months ago from a big law firm to go to a direct competitor. I was explicitly told that if I wanted to return in a few months, the firm would be happy to have me back. You should definitely ask.

[Anonymous User]

I’m currently lateraling and at my former firm (NYC big law) several people have left to a competitor and then come back a few months later during the pandemic. Definitely ask and I would start with a partner who you did good work for and have a good relationship with.

[Anonymous User]

Adding more anecdotal evidence - I know someone who went from firm 1 to firm 2, then back to firm 1, then back to firm 2 in a matter of like a year and a half.

Never hurts to ask. Just make it more about how you miss your old firm rather than how shitty your new firm is.