Lateral Move Salary Increase: What to Realistically Expect

Dear Sophia O.,

Understanding the Lateral Salary Landscape

Your expectations need to align with where you're starting and where you're headed. Since you're currently at approximately $215K as a fourth-year, you may be below market rates at many large firms, so there's significant room for upward movement depending on your target firms.

The Charlotte Advantage

You're in one of the fastest-growing legal markets in the Southeast, which works in your favor. Major firms are expanding aggressively in Charlotte, with Bank of America and Wells Fargo headquarters driving massive demand for corporate attorneys. Many firms are actively recruiting from DC, Atlanta, and even NYC, creating a competitive environment for lateral talent.

Here's what might be realistic for your situation: if you're targeting Am Law 100 firms with Charlotte offices, you should research current market rates as they vary significantly by firm. That could represent a substantial increase, but Charlotte rates are typically lower than NYC rates, though the discount varies by firm.

Practice Area Multipliers

Your corporate background is solid, but the specific subspecialty matters enormously. If you have fintech, energy, or healthcare experience, you're looking at the higher end of ranges. Financial services work tied to the major banks can command premium positioning. ESG and data privacy experience within corporate practices are particularly hot right now.

Firm Type Considerations

National BigLaw offices: These will likely offer the largest salary bumps but may expect you to eventually migrate toward their full scale. Many national firms have been expanding their Charlotte presence.

Regional powerhouses: Firms like Moore & Van Allen or Robinson Bradshaw might offer estimated 15–20% increases while providing better work-life integration and local market knowledge.

Boutiques and mid-size: These could range anywhere from lateral moves (same salary, better bonus potential) to 25% increases if they're trying to build a practice group.

Setting Your Target Range

You might consider targeting an estimated range of approximately $260K–$300K for base salary, though actual ranges will depend on specific firms and market conditions. Here's why this type of range makes sense:

• It represents a meaningful increase from your current position
• It accounts for Charlotte's cost-of-living advantage while reflecting market growth
• It leaves room for negotiation on bonus structures and other benefits
• It positions you competitively without pricing yourself out of regional opportunities

Beyond Base Salary

Don't fixate solely on base compensation. Many firms are getting creative with lateral packages. Consider the total picture: bonus potential, business development support, CLE budgets, and partnership track timing. Some firms might match your salary target but offer superior bonus structures or faster partnership consideration.

Market Timing Factors

The current market shows several trends working in your favor. The lateral market has been active in many corporate practice areas, particularly in growing markets like Charlotte. Many large firms have reported revenue growth in recent years, creating budget room for strategic lateral hires.

However, firms are being more selective about cultural fit and immediate contribution potential. They want laterals who can hit the ground running, not just add headcount.

Negotiation Strategy

Start with your research. Look at publicly available salary data and use tools to understand market positioning. When you receive offers, focus on the total package rather than just base salary. If a firm can't meet your salary target, explore whether they can compensate through signing bonuses, accelerated review timelines, or business development support.

Salary increases vary significantly based on multiple factors, but be prepared to justify any expectations through specific skills, client relationships, or practice area expertise that addresses their strategic needs. The key is positioning yourself not just as someone seeking more money, but as someone who can contribute immediately to their growth in the Charlotte market.

Note: All compensation figures cited are approximate market estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by firm, market, and individual circumstances. Verify current figures directly with firms or recruiters.