So you’ve settled on the idea that it’s time to leave your current legal practice. Maybe there was a lack of upward mobility, a weak work-life balance, or little room for developing robust client relationships. While the decision to go might have been a no-brainer, navigating the exit process is far less cut and dry. Here’s what you need to know about resigning, interviewing, and negotiating without breaching ethical or professional obligations.
Common Sense is Key: Proceed with Discretion:
Confidentiality is one of the most desired elements of this process among transitioning legal professionals. Keeping things under wraps affords you maximum control, allowing you to protect your current role and relationships as well as limit the spread of rumors or suspicion. Whether you connect with a recruiter through your network or utilize a platform like Job Lasso, refrain from disclosing sensitive information about past or ongoing work up front. Instead, highlight general details about your skill set and experience level. In addition, be sure to offer your personal contact information as opposed to any work-affiliated numbers or email addresses.
Be Mindful of Client Involvement:
In any initial conversations with hiring managers, you may need to strategize how to disclose your book of business without sharing specific client information. The goal is to showcase the value of your existing relationships, the types of clients you serve, and the revenue potential you can bring to the firm, without breaching confidentiality.
Ultimately it is up to the client if they move with you to the new firm. Oftentimes notifying your clients about your decision in a respectful way involves collaboration with company leadership so that all parties are aware it is not a solicitation, rather a client choice on how they choose to move forward.
Bolster Your Reputation by Maintaining Cordial Relationships:
Expressing respect and gratitude for your former firm goes a long way. Schedule a meeting with your current firm’s leadership to explain your plans to resign and provide an appropriate notice period (two to four weeks often suffice).
Airing any sort of grievance is a no-go. Rather, express your gratitude for the opportunities given at the firm, and note the intention of prolonging your professional relationship with managing partners. In addition, be aware of which documents you have the right to take with you when you leave, so as not to violate the trust of former clients, colleagues, or managing partners. According to the American Bar Association, departing lawyers are permitted to hold onto any materials that were originally “prepared by the lawyer” or “considered in the public domain.”
With these best practices in mind, you can be prepared to embark on a smooth transition while prioritizing your professional needs and goals and preserving a first-rate reputation.
