It's an annual rite of spring to see if the grass really is greener on the other side. We may even get the urge to "talk to some folks in the industry," or "send out a couple of resumes," but too often, if we don't get a nibble, we're likely to resign ourselves to simply staying put, because it's easier than changing jobs.

This time is different though, because staying put means leaving money on the table and missing out on the prospect for advancement, says Michelle Foster, founder and managing partner of legal recruiting firm The Foster Group.

Texas Lawyer spoke recently with Foster and her colleagues about how legal professionals are increasing their salaries and positioning within law firms by taking advantage of the changes that are occurring in the legal market.