Job Seekers

The coronavirus pandemic has created unprecedented personal and professional challenges to nearly every individual around the world. The U.S. economy has come very close to a halt and almost every business now finds itself in a tough position financially and operationally. The legal field was not spared, and law firms of all sizes are feeling their way through a contracting marketplace. 

There have been many conversations between attorneys about an expected flood of businesses filing for bankruptcy due to the COVID-19 economic slowdown. However, Texas commercial bankruptcy attorney Howard Rubin has not seen this yet, though he noted this could change in the coming months. 

Due diligence into their target law firms by lateral candidates is even more important in the post-COVID era. The way a law firm handled the economic shutdown and reopening, as well as its management and financial posture afterward, are vital considerations when determining which firm would be the best fit for the candidate and, for partner candidates, her clients.

“Stay home and stay healthy” and “we’re all in this together” have become common mantras during this trying time. The COVID-19 crisis has shown us that we are sharing common experiences, but individual circumstances within that broader common experience vary greatly. 

The business landscape has been going through a constant and sometimes unpredictable change. In-house counsel are anticipating to drive stability and value, and act as business partners, not just legal advisers. 

The coronavirus has completely altered the hiring landscape, perhaps forever, according to in-house and executive recruiters. But it’s not all bad. 

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, law firms are relying on technology and videoconferencing more than ever to hire and onboard attorneys and staff during this crisis. Unfortunately, however, many will not be able to achieve 100% remote onboarding. 

Recent data from the National Association for Law Placement shows 2019 was a strong year for summer associate hiring, but the COVID-19 crisis is raising questions on whether those summer programs will go on as expected. 

Confessions of a Legal Recruiter is an ongoing series of articles to advise experienced attorneys at every stage of their career to take them to the next level. From making the lateral partner move to succession planning.

As the COVID-19 crisis continues, there are no signs of a panicked hiring freeze just yet. Offers are even already out to the newest round of associates. However, as this situation evolves, the pandemic is bound to affect the legal job market.