In the current free agent lateral era, lateral partner recruiting within Big Law has evolved significantly, transforming into what a Leopard report describes as a “distinct professional function.” Law firms are increasingly devoting resources to establishing entire teams dedicated to identifying and securing top talent. This strategic shift underscores firms’ recognition of the importance of lateral hires in maintaining a competitive edge in the legal industry.
For more detailed insights into this evolving trend, you can read the report on
Leopard’s study.