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Hi all,

I just received an inhouse offer I am very excited about - I am dying to get out of this firm. However, I am a little nervous about accepting given current economic uncertainty and all of the layoffs going around. I think there is virtually no chance I get laid off from my current firm. And the inhouse position is backfilling a position and it is a non-startup with strong financials; however, company is certainly not immune from economic headwinds.

What are your general thoughts about going inhouse during these uncertain times?

Any due diligence you might do to make yourself feel more comfortable?

I just went in-house (same as you: backfilling a role, non-startup, good financials) and had some similar concerns initially. I just told myself there is never going to be a perfect time to make the jump and got comfortable. It was also a really good opportunity that I felt would be unreasonable to pass up.

It helped that my manager told me that there is a lot of work to do and they are obviously hiring me to fill a need, economic conditions notwithstanding, which I would assume is the same for you. Also helps that none of the other lawyers on my team seem worried in the slightest.

Things to consider or ask them:
1. How lean is the legal department?
2. Have there been prior layoffs/cuts at this company? If so, was the legal department affected?
3. Do some research on the economic climate for the industry that the company is in.
4. If the company is SEC regulated, check their 10-Qs for their latest public financial information.
5. What is their plan for getting through the downturn?

Don't be afraid to ask tough questions. You've got the offer in hand, time to vet them properly as well. Overall though, if you don't find red flags I don't think general nervousness about the economy should stop you from taking a job that you want. Perhaps try to keep good relationships with your current firm in case you need a quick exit back into a law firm.

Thanks all - these are extremely helpful.

Bump for any other thoughts