The legal profession is one where every decision can have a significant impact on your career trajectory. Whether you’re contemplating a lateral move or simply exploring your options, understanding what your peers prioritize can provide valuable insights. We recently conducted a survey to capture these priorities, and the results reveal critical factors that could influence your next career move.
Firm Culture: Collaboration and Career Growth Are Key
The culture of a law firm plays a significant role in determining whether a lateral move will be successful and fulfilling. Our survey reveals that 41% of legal professionals prioritize a collaborative team atmosphere, while 39% seek support for career growth. This emphasis on firm culture reflects broader industry trends where lawyers are increasingly valuing workplaces that promote teamwork and professional development.
Recent trends show that firms with strong collaborative cultures are not only more successful in retaining talent but also in enhancing overall employee satisfaction and performance. Attorneys are drawn to environments where they feel supported and valued, which often translates to higher levels of engagement and productivity. Additionally, there is a growing expectation for firms to offer clear pathways for career advancement, including mentorship programs and opportunities for skill development. As firms adapt to these evolving priorities, they will be better positioned to attract and keep top legal talent who are looking for both a supportive work environment and tangible career growth opportunities.
The Shift Towards Remote and Hybrid Work Models
Flexibility in work arrangements has become a crucial consideration for legal professionals. According to our survey, 52% of respondents expressed a preference for working remotely full-time, while 37% favored a hybrid model that allows for at least 50% remote work. As Gloria Cannon, Managing Principal at Lateral Link, notes, “The trend towards remote and hybrid work models is a game-changer for the legal industry. Candidates are not just looking for flexibility as a perk—they consider it a necessity. Firms that can offer flexible working arrangements are positioned to attract and retain the best talent. This shift reflects a broader change in expectations, where work-life balance is becoming as important as traditional benefits.” This growing demand underscores the importance of flexible work arrangements as a key factor in career satisfaction. Firms that adapt to these new expectations will likely find themselves better positioned to compete in the evolving job market.
In-House Roles Are Gaining Popularity
Our survey also revealed that 54% of legal professionals are interested in moving into in-house roles. This trend reflects a desire for more stable working conditions, often associated with in-house positions, and a broader shift towards roles that offer a closer connection to business operations and strategy. For many attorneys, in-house roles represent an opportunity to apply their legal expertise in a different context, often with greater work-life balance and a more predictable work environment. At Lateral Link, we offer in-house roles at major companies, giving you access to some of the most sought-after positions in the industry.
Work-Life Balance and Career Growth Top the List
When it comes to making a lateral move, the most important considerations for legal professionals are work-life balance and career growth. Our survey found that 41% of respondents prioritize work-life balance, while 26% place career growth at the top of their list. “Work-life balance has become a critical factor in the decision-making process for many lawyers. While career growth remains important, it’s clear that more attorneys are prioritizing their personal well-being alongside their professional ambitions. Firms that can offer a healthy balance between the two will likely see higher satisfaction and retention rates among their lawyers,” says Adrienne R. Levi, Northeast recruiter. This also suggests that while compensation and firm prestige are still important, the ability to maintain a healthy balance between professional and personal life, along with opportunities for advancement, are increasingly critical for many attorneys.
Aligning Firm Values with Lawyer Priorities
The survey results provide a clear picture of what today’s legal professionals seek in their employers. Firms that emphasize a collaborative culture, offer career growth opportunities, and provide flexible working conditions are likely to attract and retain top talent. At Lateral Link, we’re here to help you find a firm that aligns with your professional and personal priorities. With our deep industry expertise and access to top-tier opportunities in Am Law 200 firms, we’re ready to guide you through your next career move.
Survey Sponsorship
Dreaming of your next big career move? Participating in Above the Law’s most recent survey, proudly sponsored by Lateral Link, provides you with a unique opportunity to receive a $10,000 placement bonus when you turn that dream into reality. Survey takers are eligible to receive a $10,000 Placement Bonus from Lateral Link if they make a lateral move by December 31, 2025, contingent upon a few simple requirements:
- You are open to Lateral Link contacting you for a potential lateral placement in the United States or Asia.
- You are placed through Lateral Link by December 31, 2025, at an Am Law 200 law firm with a base salary of at least $200,000.
- You remain at your new Am Law 200 law firm for at least 12 months from your start date.
More details are available at the end of the survey.
