In the competitive world of law, lateral movement has become a common and strategic career move. Whether looking to join a larger firm, transition to a specialized practice, or explore opportunities in a new geographic location, lateral moves are significant decisions that require careful planning and skilled legal guidance. At Law Firm GC, we represent lawyers and law firms in all aspects of lateral movement, ensuring that your transition is as smooth and advantageous as possible.
As a law firm focused on representing lawyers and law firms in their business-related legal needs, we thoroughly understand the unique challenges that attorneys face when considering a lateral move. Our experienced attorneys work closely with individual lawyers and law firms to provide tailored legal advice and strategic counsel throughout every stage of the lateral move process.
What Is Lateral Movement?
Lateral movement is when an attorney or practice group transitions from one law firm to another, often at a similar or higher level within the legal profession. Lateral moves may occur for various reasons, including career advancement, pursuing new practice areas, enhancing work-life balance, or seeking greater financial rewards. This type of movement is particularly prevalent in larger law firms, where attorneys may move between firms of different sizes, practice areas, or locations. It also occurs within boutique firms and between firms with different client bases.
Lateral moves benefit lawyers seeking new challenges, professional growth, and financial incentives. However, the process can be complex and involves multiple considerations, including:
- Notice Requirements
- Non-solicitation agreements
- Confidentiality obligations
- Conflicts of interest
- Partnership agreements
- Client retention issues
- Compensation structures
Why Skilled Legal Counsel is Essential in Lateral Moves
Making a lateral move requires navigating a host of legal complexities. These complexities underscore the need for experienced legal counsel. Law Firm GC provides attorneys with the support they need to navigate these issues, protect their interests, and optimize their new opportunities. Our team of attorneys, founded by Jonathan Hawkins, focuses on assisting lawyers with various issues that may arise during a lateral move, including:
Notice Requirements
The timing of notifying the firm and your clients is governed by ethical rules, fiduciary obligations, and written contracts. Generally speaking, lawyers should not inform their clients they are leaving their firm until they have given their notice to their firm. After notice is given to the firm, the contents, timing, and delivery method of notice to clients can not be glossed over. How these notices are made is often addressed in state-specific ethics rules and opinions.
Reviewing Employment Contracts and Non-Solicitation Agreements
One of the first considerations for any attorney contemplating a lateral move is the existing employment contract with their current firm. Some law firms require attorneys to sign non-solicitation agreements as part of their employment contract. These agreements often place restrictions on an attorney’s ability to solicit staff or colleagues, as they are considering a lateral move.
Our team can assist in reviewing your current agreement, analyzing its terms, and identifying potential limitations or legal risks related to the lateral move. If necessary, we will negotiate with your current employer to secure more favorable terms, helping you to transition smoothly while minimizing legal exposure.
Navigating Conflicts of Interest
When making a lateral move, evaluating potential conflicts of interest between your current firm’s clients and the new firm is essential. Conflicts can complicate the transition and may even prevent you from joining certain firms, depending on the nature of your current practice and the practice areas of the firms involved.
Our attorneys have experience identifying and resolving conflicts of interest. We work with you and the potential firm to conduct a thorough conflict check, ensuring that any existing relationships are handled appropriately and that you can proceed with your lateral move without encountering significant obstacles.
Client Retention and Transition
In many lateral moves, attorneys bring their clients with them, which can be a significant part of the decision to move. However, this process requires careful management. There are several important considerations you must address, including client notification, developing retention strategies, and negotiating appropriate fee arrangements.
Compensation and Equity Negotiations
Another key aspect of a lateral move is compensation. Attorneys typically seek higher compensation packages, better benefits, or different work structures when moving to a new firm. Our team has extensive experience negotiating compensation packages that align with your career goals and professional experience. Whether you are joining a larger firm, boutique firm, or a specialized practice, we can help negotiate:
- Base salary
- Bonus structures
- Equity partnerships
- Profit sharing
- Deferred compensation
We understand the nuances of law firm compensation and will help ensure that your financial arrangement is in line with industry standards and your professional value.
Employment and Partnership Agreement Review
For attorneys considering a move to a partnership track or a larger firm, it is crucial to carefully review any partnership agreements and employment terms. Transitioning from an associate role to a partner requires a thorough understanding of the new firm’s partnership structure, profit-sharing arrangements, and the obligations attached to partnership status.
We provide negotiation support and help you understand these complex agreements to confirm that you are entering into a partnership that meets your expectations and long-term goals. We offer guidance on positioning yourself for success if you seek equity ownership, alternative billing arrangements, or other benefits.
Geographic Considerations and Relocation Issues
Additional considerations for attorneys making lateral moves across states or regions include relocation logistics, compliance with local bar association rules, and licensing requirements. We help attorneys understand and navigate these rules to facilitate a smooth transition as they integrate into the new legal community.
Why Choose Law Firm GC for Help with Your Lateral Move?
Law Firm GC offers tailored legal strategies for lateral moves, blending business insight with legal knowledge. Our team excels in navigating complex employment agreements, conflicts, and client transitions. With experience across firms of all sizes and practice areas, we ensure your move is legally sound and strategically beneficial. Lawyers trust us for our proactive approach and proven success, making us the ideal partner for a smooth and successful career transition.
Contact Law Firm GC Today
Lateral movement can be a pivotal moment in your career. If you are moving to advance your practice, increase your earning potential, or seek new professional challenges, contact us today. We have the skill and experience to guide you through every step of the lateral move process and help you succeed in your next career transition.