CBA Record

Y O U N G L A W Y E R S J O U R N A L

Finding the Perfect Fit For Your Profession Considerations in Making a Lateral Move as a Law Firm Associate By Jesse P. Hyde

A s a recent law school graduate, when joining a law firm as an associate, you focus on develop- ing foundational skills that will serve you through your entire career. If you are a corporate M&A associate, for example, you are drafting disclosure schedules and ancillary closing documents, coordinat-

ing due diligence, and, ideally, beginning to draft asset and stock purchase agree- ments. If you are a litigation associate, you draft motions, respond to discovery requests, and prepare for depositions. As you progress to a mid-level associate, your concentration is on gaining experience and building relationships with clients and

other attorneys. While it is critical to excel as an associate within your firm, there will be opportunities to make a lateral move to other firms and companies during this period, with short-term and long-term factors to evaluate and consider.

46 JULY/AUGUST 2017