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A lateral move can change an attorney’s career. However, joining another law firm takes careful planning.

A higher salary may look attractive. Yet, money should not be the only reason to move.

LawCrossing highlights key points for attorneys who are thinking about a career move. The guidance covers when to move, how to stand out, and how to avoid career risks.

Lateral hiring remains an important part of the legal market. Many attorneys seek better work, higher pay, and stronger career growth.

Learn more from this guide: The Lateral Move Playbook: When to Move, How to Position, and How to Avoid Career Risk

When Should Attorneys Make a Lateral Move?

A lateral move can make sense when career growth has slowed.

For example, an attorney may have few chances to advance. Another lawyer may want better work or stronger training.

However, attorneys should first ask why they want to leave.

Junior lawyers should look closely at training and work quality. Good mentors can also help build a strong career.

Mid-level lawyers often have more options. They have gained useful skills and firm experience. As a result, other firms may see them as strong candidates.

Senior attorneys face different choices. They should review partnership paths, client work, and business growth.

How Attorneys Can Stand Out

A strong career story can help an attorney win a new role.

Candidates should explain why they want to move. They should focus on future goals rather than complain about their current firm.

For example, an attorney may want more complex cases. Another may want more client contact or a larger practice.

Candidates should also show what they can offer.

Major cases and deals can help. Client work, leadership roles, and key legal skills can also strengthen a candidate’s profile.

How to Avoid Career Risk

A lateral move can bring new chances. However, it can also create new risks.

Attorneys should research a firm before accepting an offer. They should review its workload, culture, pay, and growth path.

Candidates should also ask why the job is open. A growing team can be a good sign. Frequent departures may signal a problem.

Salary also deserves careful review.

A bigger paycheck may not make up for a heavy workload or poor career prospects. Therefore, attorneys should look at the full offer.

Frequent job changes can also raise concerns. One well-planned move can help a career. Too many short stays may raise questions about stability.

What Recruiters Should Know

Lateral hiring helps firms add experienced lawyers.

Recruiters should look beyond an attorney’s current job title. They should review the candidate’s skills, work history, and career goals.

A candidate’s reason for moving also matters.

Furthermore, firms can avoid poor hires by giving clear details about the role. This includes pay, workload, team structure, and growth plans.

A Smart Approach to Career Growth

The key lesson is simple: not every job move is a good move.

Attorneys should think about their long-term goals before making a change.

The best lateral move should offer more than a new employer. It should provide better work, stronger growth, or a better career path.

For legal professionals, careful planning can turn a lateral move into a major career step.

Learn more from this guide: The Lateral Move Playbook: When to Move, How to Position, and How to Avoid Career Risk

See Also:

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The post How to Make a Powerful Lateral Career Move first appeared on JDJournal Blog.