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Second year SF litigation Big Law associate. I'm considering pursuing a move to a boutique L&E firm (think Littler, Ogletree, etc.).

My current firm is unable to provide sufficient L&E work to fill my plate, and I feel as if I'm slowly specializing in an area which will limit my longterm exit options/in-house options.

Am I crazy to think about making this leap? Is the lifestyle much better to justify the pay cut? I know Big Law is not sustainable in the long run, and I'm trying to set myself up well for an in-house job down the road. Also, if you're currently at an SF L&E boutique, what has your experience been like? Any insight is welcome.

It’s a big pay cut and not worth it. The hours aren’t necessarily less intense if you’re at a relatively chill Big Law so to speak. Clients are more insurance defense than private. What L&E specialty are you feeling boxed into?