As we move into 2025, the legal profession faces new pressures and opportunities shaped by economic shifts, technological advances, and changing client demands. For partners and associates considering lateral moves, staying attuned to these forces is essential for making a strategic career decision. At Onward Recruiting, we’ve identified the most impactful trends reshaping lateral hiring this year. Here’s how to navigate the landscape and position yourself for success.

1. The Push-and-Pull of Flexibility in Firms

The pandemic brought sweeping changes to workplace expectations, with many law firms embracing hybrid or fully remote models to attract and retain top talent. However, as we step into 2025, the legal industry is grappling with a tug-of-war on this issue. Some firms are doubling down on in-office requirements, leaving lawyers feeling whiplash from the sudden shift in expectations.

As stated in our recent blog “Is Remote Work Dead? Let’s Not Bury It Just Yet”, while many lawyers prefer flexibility, some firms have reversed course, citing concerns about collaboration, culture-building, and client service. This has created a polarized landscape:

  • Pro-Flexibility Firms: Leveraging hybrid work models to attract a broader talent pool and boost retention. Flexibility continues to enhance job satisfaction and work-life balance for legal professionals.

  • Return-to-Office Advocates: Mandating more in-office time, arguing that face-to-face interaction is critical for mentorship, teamwork, and maintaining a cohesive firm identity.

How to Approach This:

  1. Clarify Expectations Early: Understand a prospective firm’s stance on remote work before committing.

  2. Demonstrate Adaptability: Showcase your ability to excel in both remote and in-office environments.

  3. Balance Your Priorities: If flexibility is essential to you, prioritize firms with hybrid or remote-friendly policies. If you value an in-office setting, focus on firms that align with those preferences.

2. Specialists Shine, But Generalists Build Bridges

What’s Driving the Demand for Specialists?

Law firms are zeroing in on attorneys with deep knowledge in emerging and high-demand fields. Areas like cybersecurity, intellectual property, healthcare law, and fintech have seen a surge in client needs, making lawyers with this expertise highly sought after. Firms aren’t just looking for technical knowledge—they want lawyers who can use their expertise to solve complex client problems.

Generalists Aren’t Going Anywhere

While specialists are in the spotlight, generalists with strong client relationships remain indispensable. Firms recognize the value of lawyers who can pivot across practice areas and provide holistic solutions. The key is versatility paired with a proven ability to meet diverse client needs.

Takeaway: Whether you bring a specialized skill set or a broad-based practice, it’s critical to articulate how your expertise aligns with the goals of the firm you’re considering.

3. Mid-Market Firms Are Gaining Ground

For many lawyers, the allure of mid-market firms is growing stronger. These firms offer a unique blend of benefits, including:

  • Competitive Compensation: Without the intense pressures often associated with larger firms.

  • Agility: Mid-sized firms are better positioned to respond to client needs quickly.

  • Culture: A collaborative, entrepreneurial environment that appeals to lawyers looking for work-life balance.

Smaller firms outside the AmLaw 200 have seen impressive growth, with firms under 150 lawyers experiencing a 14% median revenue increase (Best Lawyers)—a testament to their ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive market.

Pro Tip: If professional fulfillment and a more balanced lifestyle are high on your priority list, exploring opportunities with mid-market firms could be the right move.

4. A Portable Book of Business: The Game-Changer for Partners

If you’re a partner considering a move, your book of business is your strongest currency. In today’s competitive market, firms in major legal hubs increasingly expect a minimum portable book of $2 million, with many targeting $3 million or more for top-tier firms.

But it’s not just about numbers—firms are looking at the bigger picture:

  • Sustainability: Is your client base diversified enough to weather industry changes?

  • Strength of Relationships: Are your client relationships strong and likely to transition with you?

  • Cross-Selling Potential: Can your practice generate opportunities across multiple practice areas within the firm?

These factors can significantly influence your attractiveness to a prospective firm. Additionally, firms differ in how they reward efforts like cross-selling, making it crucial to find the right cultural and strategic fit. Working with an experienced recruiter like Onward Recruiting can help you navigate these nuances and position yourself for success.

Conclusion: Your Career, Your Move

Making a lateral move in today’s legal market is about more than just finding a new position—it’s about aligning your strengths and aspirations with the right opportunities. Whether you’re a partner evaluating your book of business or an associate looking for a firm that values flexibility, staying informed is the first step toward a successful transition.

At Onward Recruiting, we’re here to help you navigate the trends, identify the best opportunities, and take your career to the next level.

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Is Remote Work Dead? Let’s Not Bury It Just Yet