BigLaw partner lateral moves involve extensive due diligence on portable business, client relationship verification, and detailed compensation negotiations. The process typically takes 3-6 months and requires careful timing around non-competes and client notifications.
Seattle offers higher attorney salaries but significantly higher housing costs, while Portland provides a lower cost of living but fewer BigLaw opportunities. Tax differences and lifestyle factors also impact the real value of compensation packages.
Charlotte is emerging as one of the fastest-growing Southeast legal markets, driven by banking headquarters and lower competition, while Atlanta remains the established regional hub with broader practice diversity but higher attorney saturation.
M&A partners specializing in private equity combine deal execution expertise with significant client relationship management and business development responsibilities. Their role extends far beyond transaction work to include practice leadership, team management, and strategic firm initiatives.