California does not offer bar exam reciprocity, so out-of-state attorneys must take the California bar exam. However, experienced attorneys may qualify for admission by motion under specific circumstances.
Fenwick & West is a premier Silicon Valley technology law firm known for venture capital, IPOs, and emerging company representation. They're particularly strong in tech transactions, employment law for tech companies, and intellectual property matters.
Legal recruitment consultants are specialized headhunters who connect attorneys with law firms, handling everything from market intelligence to interview coaching. They're typically most valuable for lateral moves rather than entry-level positions.
Lateral attorney moves typically take 3-6 months from initial outreach to start date, though the timeline varies significantly based on practice area demand, seniority level, and market conditions.
Breaking into financial services law from general corporate practice requires leveraging your M&A and securities experience while building regulatory knowledge. Target firms with strong banking practices and consider geographic markets with major financial institutions.