Employment law partners typically need $1-3M in portable business for lateral moves, though demand varies by market and specialty. PAGA expertise and wage-hour class action experience can reduce these thresholds significantly.
Labor and employment partners typically need $1-3M in portable business for lateral moves, though requirements vary significantly by market and firm tier. Strong client relationships and specialized expertise can sometimes offset lower book numbers.
BigLaw associates handle sophisticated transactions and litigation with significant client responsibility, billing 1,900-2,400+ hours annually. Work varies dramatically by practice area, from M&A due diligence to complex commercial litigation, with clear advancement tracks to counsel and partnership.
Wyoming's employment law market is limited but stable, driven primarily by energy sector needs and general business litigation. Most sophisticated work flows to larger Colorado or Utah firms, making it better suited for attorneys seeking smaller practice environments.
California's intricate wage and hour regulations, including PAGA claims and classification issues, create enormous demand for employment lawyers. The state's employee-friendly laws and high-stakes litigation make California-specific expertise incredibly valuable.
Fund finance focuses on subscription facilities and capital call lending to private equity/hedge funds, while traditional banking covers broader commercial lending. Fund finance typically offers higher compensation and more deal velocity, though both practices share core lending documentation skills.
Private credit service partners represent borrowers and lenders in direct lending transactions outside traditional banking. This rapidly growing practice area offers strong compensation but demands deep technical skills and significant client development.
Most major Seattle firms don't match full Cravath scale compensation, typically offering 10-20% below NYC rates while emphasizing work-life balance and lower cost of living. However, top-tier firms increasingly compete on salary for high-demand practice areas like tech transactions and IP.
Investment management and funds law is experiencing robust growth driven by record private equity activity, new regulatory frameworks, and expanding alternative investment strategies. Demand is particularly strong in major financial centers and firms are actively recruiting experienced practitioners.
Generally, keep your job search confidential until you have a firm offer. However, there are strategic exceptions where early disclosure might benefit your relationship with current employers.
Fund finance offers strong lateral opportunities for associates with banking experience, featuring high demand, competitive compensation, and diverse exit paths. The practice combines subscription credit facilities, NAV lending, and hybrid capital structures in a growing market driven by private equity expansion.
The T&E partner market for 2026 looks robust, driven by ongoing wealth transfer dynamics and tax uncertainty. High-net-worth population growth and family office expansion continue fueling demand for experienced laterals.