Chances for change

BullRunner: What are your opinions regarding what I have been contemplating for the last few months. I do 100% litigation and want to make a change to transactional type work. I have some experience in the specialty I want to move into but based on the (screwed up) way firms around Philadelphia hire, I don't think I'd have a real chance at a job. Just wanted some outside feedback (and wanted to keep it anonymous). Thanks to all who respond, if anyone's out there at all.

Dancer: Are you looking to move to 100% transactional immediately? Or would a gradual shift be okay? If the latter is true, I'd see if there are any partners you could ask for some trans work. You would think, if you litigate X-related matters, you'd have some good insight into what would make a good X transactions lawyer.

hamburgerman: i'd recommend making a slower shift. if you rack up a little trans experience, you'll be more likely to be taken seriously to a new employer. making a shift like that can be tough without experience. take on some trans matters at your current firm before making the leap.

Philagator: Does the firm you work at now do transactional work? If so, I'd look there first and see if you can slide over. Some firms will allow that. Then if you want to do other trans work later, you can at least have some significant experience under your belt.

BullRunner: Unfortunately for me, I am at a firm where there is no trans work. I'd be making a move without having done any of that. I think my chances are slim, but I am really set on moving. Thanks for your responses.

AmbulanceChaser: Bull - I think your assessment of your own situation is right. Your chances are slim, but that doesn't and shouldn't stop you from trying.

hamburgerman: i'd recommend finding a firm where you can use your other experience as a qualification, then shift into trans work. like, find a firm that does what you do now and trans work. tell them that you want to shift into trans work in the interview. a lot of firms have the attitude of you cant teach an old dog new tricks.

dubs00: Not to sound trite, but just because your current firm doesn't do it, is there any reason why you couldn't reach out to existing clients for that type of work? Even Insurance Defense firms have clients that might need that type of work in the future.

johndoe1: I agree with making the gradual change either at your current law firm or at another law firm that has a transactional group. Most firms do not want to invest their time or money in teaching an attorney the transactional side of law, unless they are a first year.

I actually made the switch from litigation to transactional work via a merger; there was a need for a transactional attorney because many had left, so I jumped at the opportunity and never looked back. I also suggest doing some real estate, corporate, or estate litigation because you will be exposed to some the basics of transactional work. For example, in real estate litigation, you may have to review title work, which will help you in doing a residential or commercial closing.

If you do decide to go to another firm, I would definitely be upfront about making a gradual switch, as I have seen attorneys fired for soliciting work outside their practice group. The firm is hiring you to fill a need; if you are not going to do the work you were hired to do, then they can always find someone who will.

BullRunner: There is no possibility of doing trans type work at my current firm. We don't do any. 100% litigation. I like the advice of using the lit exp I have now to get me in the door somewhere else and then after a year or so move form within. Thanks.

TalentScout: Changing practice areas is always tough— especially when it's dramatic. I managed to change from litigation into corporate after having practiced the former for only one year— this was in New York where it's no easier— even 20 years ago— based upon market conditions (a dearth of junior corporate associates) and the fact that grads from my law school were in high demand. One possibility (which you won't like to hear) is to get an LLM in something like tax. This may enable you to have employers look at you with more of a fresh eye— though that is going to, almost by necessity, get you started as a VERY junior corporate associate. There are some disciplines, like real estate, where it is easier to move from the lit to the transactional side— if real estate lit is an option for you, I would give it a shot. If you want to build a little bit of current transactional experience, there may be non-profit public interest places in Philly where you could get experience drafting agreements (ex, places that provide counseling to small businesses, arts professionals, etc.)