Private equity funds focusing on emerging companies create significant lateral opportunities for corporate attorneys. These funds drive demand for specialized legal services in M&A, securities, and regulatory compliance as their portfolio companies scale.
Securities litigation offers strong compensation and steady demand, particularly at elite firms and boutiques. The practice combines complex financial analysis with high-stakes litigation, making it an attractive specialty for experienced commercial litigators.
Washington and California employment law markets differ significantly in regulatory complexity, with California's PAGA and wage & hour laws creating more plaintiff-side opportunities, while Washington's noncompete ban and tech concentration drive corporate employment demand.
In-house attorneys routinely sign interrogatories and discovery responses as part of their role, but should understand the professional liability implications and implement proper review procedures. This responsibility comes with the territory of being corporate counsel.
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.
Intellectual property presents excellent lateral opportunities for partnership-minded attorneys, driven by consistent client demand, specialized expertise requirements, and strong economics. However, success requires strategic positioning and often additional technical credentials.