Big Law Life #71: Succeeding in BigLaw Without Origination Credit
In today’s episode, I tackle one of the most frustrating challenges lawyers face as they move up the ranks in Big Law: how to demonstrate value when you don’t have origination credit. I’ve seen far too many talented attorneys get left out of compensation conversations, passed over for opportunities, or feel stuck because they seemingly rely on others to bring in work—even when they’re the ones clients actually trust.
I break down real-world strategies to change how you’re perceived inside your firm and with recruiters, even if you’re not the billing or relationship partner on paper. I also walk through how to make a compelling lateral case without a traditional book of business and how to think long-term about origination in a way that keeps your options open and your standing strong.
At a Glance:
00:00 Introduction and why origination or billing credit is a key challenge for BigLaw partners 01:20 The importance of finding a way through the origination credit problem 03:04 What to say when firm leadership questions your contribution 04:05 How to revive slowing client relationships and demonstrate business impact 06:15 When leadership doesn’t see the full picture, and how to correct the record 06:56 Making a lateral move without a traditional book of business 07:36 The three strongest arguments for portable work without official billing credit 09:26 How to pitch yourself when someone else controls all client credit 10:02 The reality of working with a “credit hog” partner and what to do about it 11:08 Why high-value work still counts, even if your name isn’t on the origination line 12:16 Building your value narrative for your current or next firm 12:57 Final thoughts and where to find more career resources
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify
Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.
For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast here!
For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars.
Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her:
laura@lauraterrell.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/
Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast