A new guide from BCG Attorney Search explains what it takes to make partner at leading law firms.
The guide, “What It Takes to Make Partner at the Top 100 Law Firms,” looks at the skills and steps lawyers need to move toward partnership. It also explains how partnership roles have changed at large law firms.
For associates building a BigLaw career, the guide offers practical advice on the path to partnership.
Learn more from this guide: What It Takes to Make Partner at the Top 100 Law Firms – The Ultimate BCG Guide
The Path to Partnership Is Changing
Making partner now involves more than strong legal work and long hours.
Many large firms use two types of partners. These are equity partners and non-equity partners.
According to the guide, 86% of Am Law 100 firms have non-equity partner roles.
As a result, becoming a partner does not always mean owning part of the firm.
The guide also says the path to partnership often takes about eight to 10 years. Reaching equity partner can take even longer.
What Firms Want in Partners
BCG points to several key factors that can affect an associate’s path to partnership.
Strong Legal Work
Good legal work remains the starting point.
The guide lists 2,000 or more billable hours a year as a benchmark for partnership candidates.
However, hours are only one part of the picture. Associates also need strong reviews and a good work record.
A strong reputation can also help an attorney stand out within a firm.
Business Development
Business development is another key part of the partnership path.
Law firms need partners who can build client ties and bring in new work. Therefore, associates should start building these skills early.
Networking can help attorneys meet new contacts. Client work can also create chances to build long-term relationships.
Support From Senior Partners
Support from senior lawyers can also matter.
Associates should build strong ties with partners who know their work. These lawyers may support an associate during partnership reviews.
Meanwhile, mentoring younger lawyers can show leadership skills.
Understanding Your Firm’s Model
The guide also stresses the need to understand how a firm makes partnership decisions.
Some firms promote many partners from within. Others hire more partners from outside the firm.
Practice area demand can also affect career paths. Therefore, associates should learn about their firm’s needs and future plans.
The guide also notes that partnership is not the only career option. Lawyers can pursue counsel roles, in-house jobs, boutique firms, and other paths.
Building a Long-Term Career Plan
BCG encourages lawyers to start planning for partnership early.
First, associates should build strong legal skills and a good work record. Next, they can focus on client ties, networking, and business development.
Senior associates should also learn their firm’s partnership rules. They should understand what the firm expects from future partners.
For law students and recruiters, the guide offers a broader lesson. Career growth at large firms can depend on both legal skills and business value.
Conclusion
The new BCG Attorney Search guide provides a look at the path to partnership at Top 100 law firms.
The guide shows that billable hours are only one part of the process. Legal skills, client ties, business development, leadership, and support from partners can also matter.
As law firms change, lawyers can benefit from knowing what their firms expect. A clear career plan can help associates prepare for the next step.
Learn more from this guide: What It Takes to Make Partner at the Top 100 Law Firms – The Ultimate BCG Guide
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