While many young lawyers set their sights on prominent law firms post-graduation, the reality of Biglaw life isn’t for everyone. Many are naturally drawn to in-house positions for their perceived work-life balance and the opportunity to become deeply entrenched in the industry of their particular corporation. However, such a transition isn’t always smooth. One Biglaw firm in particular is aiming to change that narrative: Husch Blackwell.
Husch Blackwell recently introduced a new program – HB In-House – specifically designed to facilitate their attorneys’ transition to in-house roles. This initiative’s primary objectives are two-fold: firstly, to offer attorneys an intimate understanding of their client duties and obligations, and secondly, to equip attorneys who are interested in transitioning to in-house roles with the requisite tools to do so.
The novel approach Husch Blackwell has taken towards nurturing their attorneys’ career progressions offers a refreshing perspective on in-house transitioning. Usually, such a move is largely dependent on random case allotments or personal networking. With the launch of this program, attorneys interested in taking a different career path from the traditional Biglaw structure have a clear way forward.
Chief Client Officer Angela Quinn sees this program as a unique market offering that helps bridge gaps in traditional legal career trajectories while creating an ideal talent pool for in-house roles. Twenty-five clients of the firm contributed to the development of the HB In-House curriculum, reflecting a synergy between the firm’s lawyers and clients.
The first iteration of the program will focus on three key areas:
- Education: Participants will gain insights into the responsibilities of in-house attorneys, comprehend the structure of legal teams, and understand the differences between private practice and in-house work.
- Training: The program helps attorneys understand various crucial aspects such as a company’s business objectives, managing budgets, understanding key financial reports, risk identification and mitigation, relationship building, teamwork, and leadership skills development.
- Coaching: Attorneys also get the opportunity to access various coaching programs during the course period, such as individual coaching, the opportunity to join a coaching cohort, and mentorship from an in-house advisor, among others.
By acknowledging and facilitating the career developments of associates, Husch Blackwell’s innovative approach indeed sets a new bar in attorney career development.