The Goldilocks Effect: Finding the Law Firm That's Just Right

It is common knowledge that law firms employ the majority of attorneys practicing today. Selecting the right firm is just as important a decision as where you choose to go to law school or in which substantive legal discipline you choose to practice. In my two decades of practice, I have learned all too well that such decisions can make or break the quality of your professional life and the potential opportunities you might encounter. Unfortunately, there is no single track for law firm careers, and understanding what the selection of law firm types can and cannot offer should be synthesized, applied and leveraged to evaluate your own potential goals and objectives.

The International Firm

Larger law firms can offer tremendous advantages, the most obvious being reach, depth and breadth of practice. But it is important to note larger does not mean better. Most large law firms are ranked as top law firms, particularly when measuring profits per partner. Large firms attract prestigious clients and therefore high-stakes and exciting litigation, as well as complex and downright interesting transactions. You are supported by abundant resources, such as cutting-edge technologies, ample support staff and established training and educational programs that can be invaluable to your development as a lawyer. Specialization is encouraged so you believe you will be exposed to in-depth information pertaining to your area of interest. Large firms tout that they can be anything and everything to their clients. And, to state the obvious, you will likely receive far superior pay, benefits and a more crystallized map regarding a much-coveted partnership. In many situations, just having been associated with larger firms will open doors for your future. Let’s face it, are you more likely to interview a candidate who has transactional experience from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom or O’Melveny & Myers, or one that has experience from The Joe Smith Law Firm?

Is Bigger Better?