How BigLaw Partner Lateral Moves Work: Complete Guide

Dear Priya H.,

BigLaw partner lateral moves are sophisticated business transactions that go far beyond traditional hiring. If you're considering this move, here's the roadmap to navigate the process successfully.

1. Initial Market Assessment and Positioning

Before any firm conversations begin, conduct an honest evaluation of your portable book. Use tools like our partner portable book calculator to quantify your annual originations and estimate what percentage will realistically follow you. Many lateral candidates find that portability varies significantly based on client relationships and practice area, though this varies significantly by practice area and client relationships.

Document your business development over the past 3-5 years, including client origination dates, matter types, and revenue generation. Firms will want to see consistent growth and diversified client relationships rather than dependence on one or two major clients.

2. Target Firm Research and Outreach

BigLaw firms evaluate lateral partners based on strategic fit, not just revenue potential. Research firms where your practice area is growing or where they have identified gaps. For example, privacy and data security laterals are often in high demand as firms expand these capabilities to serve tech clients.

Initial outreach typically happens through legal recruiters who specialize in partner placements, though direct relationships with practice group leaders can also open doors. The conversation starts with a high-level discussion of your practice, client base, and interest in exploring opportunities.

3. Due Diligence Deep Dive

Once mutual interest is established, firms conduct extensive due diligence on your business. This includes:

• Client relationship verification: Firms may request client lists, revenue breakdowns by client, and matter histories
• Conflict checking: Your potential clients are run against the firm's existing client base and conflict database
• Practice area fit: Assessment of how your expertise aligns with firm strategy and existing capabilities
• Cultural evaluation: Multiple interviews with practice group leaders, management committee members, and potential colleagues

This phase typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on complexity. Firms are making a significant investment and want confidence in both your business and cultural fit.

4. Financial Negotiations and Structure

Partner compensation negotiations are complex, typically involving multiple components:

• Base guarantee: Often covers an initial period while you establish your practice (terms vary significantly by firm and situation)
• Origination credit: Percentage of business you bring that counts toward your compensation
• Equity timeline: Path to equity partnership, if applicable
• Support commitments: Marketing budget, staffing, business development resources

Many firms also negotiate transition assistance, including help with client entertainment, conference attendance, and other business development activities during your first year.

5. Managing the Transition Timeline

Timing is critical for partner laterals. You'll need to coordinate several moving pieces:

Non-compete considerations: Review your current partnership agreement carefully. Many firms have notice periods, client solicitation restrictions, or other limitations that affect your transition timing.

Client notifications: Develop a communication strategy for informing clients about your move. This often happens in coordination between you and both firms to ensure smooth client transitions.

Bar admissions: If you're moving to a new state, check current bar reciprocity requirements (rules change frequently, so verify current requirements). Some moves require additional bar exams or admissions processes.

6. Post-Move Integration

Your success as a lateral partner depends heavily on integration into the new firm's culture and client development efforts. Most successful laterals invest significant time in internal relationship building, cross-selling opportunities, and establishing themselves within the firm's business development processes.

Firms typically provide integration support, including introductions to key clients, inclusion in pitch opportunities, and access to firm marketing resources. However, the responsibility for building internal relationships and expanding your practice ultimately rests with you.

Making the Decision

The entire process from initial conversation to start date can range from a few months to longer, depending on various factors. During this time, evaluate not just the financial package but also the firm's commitment to your practice area, cultural fit, and long-term growth opportunities.

Remember that BigLaw partner lateral moves are significant business decisions with long-term implications. Take time to thoroughly evaluate the opportunity, involve trusted advisors in your decision-making, and ensure you're making the move for the right strategic reasons beyond just immediate financial gain.