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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?

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

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.

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.

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.