Legal recruiters help attorneys navigate lateral moves by matching candidates with firm opportunities, providing market intelligence, and managing the interview process. They're typically paid by firms on successful placements, making their services free for candidates.
Partners benefit significantly from working with specialized legal recruiters who can navigate confidential opportunities, provide market intelligence, and manage complex negotiations. The current lateral market strongly favors candidates with portable business, making recruiter expertise particularly valuable.
Fenwick & West is an excellent choice for mid-level corporate and technology associates, particularly those with startup or emerging company experience. The firm's market-leading position in Silicon Valley tech transactions creates strong advancement opportunities for laterals with relevant backgrounds.
While the terms are often used interchangeably, legal recruiters typically specialize exclusively in law firm and in-house legal placements, while headhunters may work across multiple industries. Legal recruiters generally offer deeper market knowledge and stronger relationships within the legal community.
The right time for a lateral partner move depends on market demand for your practice, your book's true portability, and your firm's trajectory. Strong lateral markets and personal growth momentum often align with optimal timing.