Big Law Life

In today’s episode, I walk through one of the most important—but often rushed—decisions in a legal career, choosing a practice area. Whether you're a junior associate deciding where to start or a mid-level lawyer rethinking your long-term fit, this episode lays out ten insights lawyers frequently wish they'd heard before committing to a specialty. I unpack what day-to-day work in different practice areas actually looks like (not just what it sounds like on paper or in theory), the types of clients and stressors you can expect, and how to think about exit options, marketability, and long-term sustainability. I also cover what happens when your specialty is too niche or too trendy, and how to evaluate whether a practice area is keeping up with new developments over time. This episode is about helping you choose a path that aligns with how you work best, including over the long term in your legal career. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction and why law school doesn't prepare you for picking a practice area 01:20 Considering how you prefer to work and what that means for certain practices 02:19 The benefits of shadowing or observing potential specialties before committing 03:22 Myths about what you think certain practices are like v. reality 04:09 Why you may spend years waiting for “real” litigation experience 05:15 Deal work isn’t easier—it’s just a different kind of pressure 06:14 The stress of transactional work at junior and senior levels 07:10 Which practice areas and other training may offer potential exit options from firms 08:00 How geography can affect your legal opportunities 09:20 How the type of clients you serve can affect your work 10:11 Why cross-border work can be a variable to consider 11:22 The impact of certain practices areas on your career over time 12:12 Practice areas most vulnerable to AI-driven developments 12:57 The potential risks of overspecialization 13:53 Beware of trend-driven practice areas that may fizzle out 15:19 Cybersecurity: a cautionary tale of legal work vs. non-legal demands 15:44 Why mid-levels often give better career advice than partners 16:56 The real question behind choosing your practice area 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

In today’s episode, I dive into the complex dynamics of self-advocacy inside Big Law firms—especially when you know stepping up may trigger pushback or quietly harm your reputation. I talk about what it really feels like to raise your hand in an environment where power dynamics are murky, and how to do it strategically so you're not sidelined for asking for what you've earned.  Whether you’ve been burned in the past or you’re simply unsure how to assert yourself without risk, I break down practical ways to navigate firm politics, advocate for your own advancement, and shift how you're seen by the decision-makers at your firm.  You'll hear real-world examples from my coaching clients, including how one partner successfully challenged a toxic situation by staying grounded in facts—not emotion—and how to use smaller, safer forums to build visibility before taking bigger swings. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction and the real challenge of self-advocacy inside Big Law 01:20 Why internal negotiation feels riskier than client advocacy 02:12 The hidden rules of the sandbox—and how fear shapes behavior 03:12 How law firm culture discourages asking for more 04:00 Imposter syndrome and unclear rules for advancement 05:10 Why some partners turn cold—and how that shift derails careers 06:01 A mindset reframe to engage power players strategically 07:06 A junior partner’s story: pushing through abuse to win a major pitch 09:07 How to build influence through low-risk contributions 10:14 Why tone and timing matter more than content in firm-wide conversations 10:35 How to read your firm’s sandbox like a strategist 11:30 What to do when you’ve been cut out or undermined 12:43 Gut-checking your fears vs. firm realities 13:45 Advocacy isn’t selfish—it’s part of owning your career 14:26 How to show up consistently and shape your firm’s future 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today’s episode, I’m diving into how to stay strategic when the legal market slows or your practice area begins to shrink. These shifts are inevitable in any long-term legal career but how you respond can define your next chapter. I walk through how to assess whether you’re facing a temporary dip or a deeper structural change, and how to use that insight to proactively adapt.  Whether you’re exploring a pivot within your firm, aiming to future-proof your practice, or quietly preparing for a move, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to act with confidence rather than panic. I also cover how to show up visibly at your firm, deepen your network, and identify overlooked opportunities that can make you indispensable, even when work is light. At a Glance:  00:00 Introduction and and why downturns are a critical moment to take strategic control of your career 01:20 How market slowdowns expose firm and practice vulnerabilities 03:02 Recognizing whether your practice decline is cyclical or structural—and how to respond 05:08 Pivoting within your firm: cross-training, lateral moves, and internal repositioning 07:22 Rebranding your skill set to meet evolving client and market needs 09:18 Staying valuable through client development, visibility, and strategic connections 11:10 Preparing your network and materials in case of a job search 13:14 Staying engaged and billable when work is light 15:15 Following firm economics and identifying growth opportunities 16:50 Evaluating whether to stay or go—and setting yourself up for the next move 17:56 Final thoughts on planning proactively instead of reacting to firm decisions 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

In today’s episode, I talk about something many lawyers experience but rarely discuss: what to do when you’re ready to leave your law firm, but you haven’t yet found the right opportunity. Maybe the market’s slow. Maybe your book isn’t portable. Or maybe nothing else feels like the right fit yet. Regardless, being stuck in limbo is frustrating—and it can quickly tank your motivation, reputation, and future options if you’re not intentional. I share what to focus on now, even if you’re in survival mode, to preserve your professional standing and prepare for your next move. From managing your mindset to making sure your materials are airtight, I break down how to keep moving forward while you're still inside a firm that no longer feels right. You’ll hear actionable steps you can take to maintain credibility, boost visibility, build momentum, and avoid some costly mistakes. At a Glance:  00:00 Introduction to Big Law Life and today’s episode 01:20 Feeling stuck when lateral options are limited 02:01 Why quiet quitting can backfire—and how to stay visible 02:44 How to maintain professionalism even when motivation dips 03:23 Risks of falling into the complaints trap 04:10 Why it's better to leave on your terms—not the firm’s 04:47 Leveraging downtime to prep your pitch to future firms 05:09 Specific ways to sharpen legal knowledge and market positioning 06:11 How tech innovation can become a strategic edge 06:34 Start tracking feedback, wins, and achievements now 07:29 Prepping for a move by activating your network 08:01 Tips for handling outreach and keeping conversations discreet 09:20 Managing recruiters and setting clear expectations 10:31 Resume, firm bio, and LinkedIn cleanup essentials 11:53 Finding meaning and control when your current work feels flat 12:20 Using pro bono and internal initiatives to add value and visibility 13:00 Thought leadership and LinkedIn as personal branding tools 13:48 How outside interests can help with burnout and breakthroughs 14:41 Staying ready for the next wave—and why mindset matters 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

In this episode, I share the top five misconceptions I see lawyers make—even the most brilliant ones—about working in Big law firms. These aren’t just abstract ideas. They’re real misunderstandings that I’ve seen derail careers, slow down progress, and create unnecessary frustration for talented attorneys. Whether you're aiming for equity partnership or trying to better understand the business side of firm life, this episode will help you avoid common pitfalls and make smarter decisions. I unpack why revenue doesn’t automatically equal profit, why strong legal skills alone won’t win you clients, and why firm culture matters more than many attorneys realize. I also challenge the assumption that every client is worth keeping and share the overlooked business and interpersonal skills that set successful lawyers apart. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction to Big Law Life 01:20 The five biggest misconceptions lawyers make about firm life 02:41 Why revenue does not equal profit—and how high billables can still hurt the bottom line 04:31 Real-world examples of high-revenue, low-profit partners losing firm support 04:57 Why legal talent alone won’t win clients—and what actually builds lasting relationships 06:21 Personal branding: Why your firm’s bio isn’t enough 07:44 If you avoid business development, firm life may not be for you 08:28 Firm culture isn’t the same everywhere—key differences that impact your daily work 09:50 What leadership structures say about your firm’s values 11:03 Not every client is a good client—and how to assess whether to let them go 12:02 What non-paying and discount-demanding clients cost you 13:01 When long-term loyalty no longer makes financial sense 14:09 If your client puts your ethics at risk, they’re not worth keeping 14:29 Great legal and business skills aren’t enough—you also need leadership and relationship management 15:38 Why strategic planning, delegation, and feedback matter just as much 16:26 Law firms now train lawyers on client business issues—because clients expect it 16:54 Your internal reputation isn’t just about legal wins—it’s about how people feel working with you 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

In today’s episode, I discuss more of the pressing questions and challenges that associates in BigLaw frequently face, including how much you should be checking in when you're out on vacation; how much face time is enough; what to consider before requesting a transfer to another office; and whether you should stay in your law firm if you're less than thrilled with life in BigLaw after less than a year. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction: Big Law Associate Advice 01:19 Should you check emails while on vacation? 03:25 Why even a 5-minute daily check-in matters 03:52 How often should you be in the office? 05:18 Matching your office presence to your career goals 06:29 What to consider before requesting an office transfer 07:20 Personal vs. professional reasons for switching offices 08:17 Managing office transfer logistics and stakeholder buy-in 09:55 Who pays for relocation—and what bar requirements matter 11:21 Should you stay in Big Law if you’re unhappy a few months in? 12:19 Distinguishing tough adjustments from toxic environments 13:14 Why staying a year or more improves future options 14:06 What you’re learning—even when it doesn’t feel like it 15:17 Big Law as training ground: why it’s still worth it 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

Dive into the 2025 legal landscape with insights from a leading expert. Discover how law firms are grappling with generative AI adoption and its potential to reshape billing structures. Learn about the rise of non-equity partner tiers and their impact on firm economics. The discussion also highlights the challenges of lateral hiring in a competitive market. Tune in to explore key trends that will define the future for law firm leaders and aspiring partners alike!

In this episode, I break down the key issues surrounding origination credit, how firms allocate it, and the strategies you need to advocate for your fair share. Whether you’re an equity partner, a non-equity partner, or a rising attorney thinking about your future, this discussion provides essential insights to help you navigate the often opaque world of credit allocation. Origination credit is one of the most critical factors determining compensation, recognition, and career advancement in Big Law—but many lawyers don’t fully understand how it works until they hit roadblocks. I explore the different models firms use, the impact of origination credit on client relationships, and how to handle situations where credit is unfairly withheld. You’ll also hear about practical approaches for protecting your interests and ensuring that your contributions are recognized. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction: Why origination credit matters 01:20 The key role of origination credit in compensation and promotion 02:30 How firms allocate credit and why policies are often vague 05:15 Strategies for partners to claim and negotiate origination credit 07:30 How firms use multiple client numbers to distribute credit 09:10 When to escalate disputes over credit allocation 12:00 Should you ask clients to intervene on your behalf? 14:05 The risks of firms failing to update credit allocation policies 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast  

In today’s episode, I explore one of the most critical yet overlooked aspects of making a lateral move as a partner in Big Law: evaluating your future practice group before making the jump. A firm’s overall reputation and financials matter, but your day-to-day success and satisfaction will depend significantly upon how your specific group operates.  I break down six essential questions every lateral partner should ask before accepting an offer -- from understanding how the group influences origination credit, to internal competition and management of clients, to evaluating whether the firm’s business development support for the group is effective and well-thought out. Whether you’re considering a move or advising colleagues who are, this episode provides the practical insights you need to make an informed decision and avoid costly surprises. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction to Big Law Life and why evaluating your practice group is critical before making a lateral move 01:20 The difference between assessing a firm’s overall reputation vs. understanding your day-to-day practice group experience 02:48 Why lateral partner candidates often overlook key questions about their future practice group 04:07 Question 1: Does the practice group complement your skills, or will you be competing for the same work? 06:13 How to assess internal competition and potential conflicts over key clients 07:12 Question 2: Are you joining an established team or expected to build a practice from scratch? 08:37 How firms vary in their willingness to support lateral partners in hiring associates and expanding their teams 10:06 Question 3: How does the practice group pitch and win new clients? 11:37 The warning signs of a dysfunctional business development strategy 13:09 Question 4: How much influence does the practice group leader have over compensation and evaluations? 14:29 Why some groups have more control over partner resources and career progression than others 15:30 Question 5: Does the practice group quietly enforce unwritten rules that contradict firm policies? 16:51 Real world examples of practice groups ignoring firm policies on leave, origination credit, and compensation 17:48 Question 6: How does this firm’s approach compare to competitors and industry best practices? 19:14 Why understanding your practice group’s internal operations is so critical 20:05 Closing thoughts: Doing your due diligence before making a lateral move to ensure long-term success 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: www.lauraterrell.com  laura@lauraterrell.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/  Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast