How Long Does a Lateral Attorney Move Take? Complete Timeline

Dear Aidan Y.,

The Realistic Timeline: What to Expect

A lateral move often takes anywhere from 3-6 months from start to finish, though this can vary significantly based on several factors. For a 4th-year associate like yourself, the process often moves faster than partner-level moves, which can take 6-12 months or longer due to client conflicts and book portability considerations.

The timeline breaks down roughly into distinct phases, each with its own variables that can accelerate or slow down the process.

Phase 1: Preparation and Initial Outreach (2-4 weeks)

Before you start reaching out to firms, you'll need to get your materials in order. This means updating your resume, identifying target firms and practice groups, and often getting bar reciprocity requirements sorted if you're considering a move to a different jurisdiction like Charlotte or Seattle.

Many candidates underestimate this phase, but it's critical. If you're targeting high-growth markets like Charlotte, where firms are actively hiring for corporate practices, having a polished application ready can make the difference in getting that first interview.

Phase 2: Interview Process (4-8 weeks)

The interview phase is where timing becomes less predictable. BigLaw firms typically conduct multiple rounds of interviews, which can involve several different attorneys. For corporate associates, this process can be particularly lengthy because firms want to ensure cultural fit within deal teams.

Some accelerating factors to consider:

• Market demand: Seattle's tech-heavy legal market often has demand for corporate associates with M&A experience
• Practice area: Corporate groups often move faster than litigation when they have immediate staffing needs
• Timing: Moves initiated in September-November often face delays due to year-end bonus considerations

Phase 3: Offer and Negotiation (1-2 weeks)

Once you receive an offer, the negotiation phase typically moves quickly. Most BigLaw firms expect a response within 1-2 weeks, though they're often flexible if you're managing multiple processes simultaneously.

For associates considering markets like Charlotte, it's worth noting that while salaries may be lower than New York levels, the cost of living differential often makes the financial package more attractive than it initially appears. The Cravath scale calculator can help you understand how your current compensation translates across different markets.

Phase 4: Notice Period and Transition (4-8 weeks)

This is often the most stressful phase for lateral candidates. Most firms expect 4-6 weeks' notice, though corporate associates sometimes need longer to transition active deals. Your current firm may try to expedite your departure or, conversely, ask you to stay longer to complete critical transactions.

The transition period can be particularly complex if you're moving to a different state. Bar admission requirements vary significantly, and some jurisdictions have lengthy processes that can delay your start date.

Factors That Can Accelerate the Timeline

Several market conditions can speed up your move:

• High demand practice areas: Corporate associates with fintech or healthcare experience often see expedited processes
• Growing markets: Firms in expansion mode, particularly in the Southeast, may move faster to secure talent
• Internal referrals: Having a contact within the target firm can significantly compress the timeline

Potential Delays to Plan For

Conversely, several factors can extend the process:

• Conflicts clearance: Can add 2-4 weeks, particularly for associates who've worked on high-profile deals
• Committee approval: Some firms require hiring committee approval, which may only meet monthly
• Bar admission: If moving states, factor in bar application processing time
• Seasonal timing: Summer associates, holidays, and year-end bonus cycles can slow everything down

Planning Your Move Strategically

Given high billable hour demands, consider starting your search 4-6 months before you'd ideally like to transition. This gives you buffer time for unexpected delays and lets you be selective about opportunities.

If you're serious about markets like Seattle or Charlotte, start researching those markets now. The Pacific Northwest's tech-focused legal environment and the Southeast's banking and financial services concentration offer different career trajectories than traditional New York corporate practice.

The key is managing expectations while staying flexible. Some moves happen surprisingly quickly when market conditions align, while others take longer due to factors beyond your control.