Why Fall Is A Great Time for a Lateral Legal Move
We get it: It’s fall. The days are getting shorter, and the pressure to meet your billable target is in full swing. The temptation to hit pause on your job search until after the New Year? Very real.
But here’s the truth no one wants to admit: waiting could cost you.
Fall might be the best-kept secret in legal recruiting. Fewer candidates. Faster hiring timelines that anticipate later start times. An interview panel that is eager to make sure that their team is in place to start after year-end bonuses are paid. And depending on your seniority, a window that may not stay open long.
Let’s break it down:
⏳ 1) Seniority Isn't Just a Number—It's a Clock
Most lateral roles target associates with 2 to 5 years of experience. Once you hit year 6 or beyond, your options narrow. Why? Firms want to make sure their current senior talent does not feel displaced. They won’t hire an additional senior associate unless a team is completely underwater and they have room to make an additional partner down the road.
Translation: If you're a 6th, 7th, or 8th year and see a good fit? Do not wait.
👩⚖️ 2) In-Demand Practice Group? You're Not the Only One
Litigation and corporate associates at top firms are flooded with recruiter outreach. It may feel like you have endless options.
But so does everyone else with your background.
Lateral hiring is need-based, not speculative. When firms open a role, they want to fill it now. Miss the window, and the job is gone.
💰 3) Year-End Bonuses: The Math Might Surprise You
Yes, walking away from your December bonus stings. But if you’re joining a firm with higher base compensation, walking away from your bonus at your current firm may be worth it. Also, as we get into Q4, a number of firms are likely to let you collect your year-end bonus and start your new job in late January or early February. Another thing to keep in mind is that many firms pro-rate, or may even match year-end bonuses for the right hire, especially if you can start quickly.
Even better? A fall start makes you eligible for a full bonus next year. Wait until Q2 2026, and you may lose that eligibility.
🏖️ 4) Have a Vacation or Wedding Planned? Take It.
Firms know you had a life before the offer. Whether it’s a honeymoon or a holiday vacation, they’ll work around it—either with a delayed start or scheduled time off. It’s not a dealbreaker.
✅ Bonus Wins of a Fall Job Search:
😎 Motivated interviewers = better conversations
📆 The opportunity to delay your start date until early 2026
🔒 Less competition from other candidates
⚡ Faster hiring decisions
Bottom line: While others are holding out for January, you could be signing an offer.
A fall search allows you to collect your year-end bonus and start 2026 with a new job!
Curious how this applies to your practice area or level?
Contact me—I’m happy to share insight.
