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I previously summered at an LA firm and am currently in a circuit clerkship. I plan to do good work and bill well above minimum hours for bonus (not in a relationship, don't plan to be in one, can be committed to the job) at whichever firm I join, at least for 5 years or so.

The most important thing to me in choosing a firm is not being forced out (up-or-out). I doubt I will be good at business development and probably would only ever make partner if someone I work with really likes me (and transfers their clients when they retire) or I develop expertise in some niche practice. I'd like to just be a counsel and billing machine (though I hope to have more flexibility and be closer to minimum hours when I am more senior). Which firm in LA do I have the best chance of being able to spend my entire career?

I don’t know the answer but just wanted to chime in with two points: (1) some firms that are equity only partnerships use Counsel as basically non-equity partners (I.e. you won’t be forced out if you do good work and are profitable); (2) a lot of partners fall into client relationships through pure luck (e.g. meeting at an industry event and bonding over a sports team) so don’t rule out that could happen. Good luck!