The demand for skilled litigation associates continues to grow as law firms seek professionals with the right blend of experience and expertise. Making a strategic lateral move early in your career can open doors to new opportunities, higher compensation, and a more fulfilling practice. Whether you are looking to specialize in a high-demand area or expand your professional network, a well-planned move can significantly enhance your career trajectory.

Staying informed about the latest hiring trends is crucial for making a strategic lateral move. To help your planning as a litigation associate, Carterwill Search has identified some key propensities shaping litigation hiring in 2025, as well as sharing, core practice areas most in demand and our list of skills that hiring partners value most.  

Finally, we’re going to outline actionable steps for you to position yourself for a successful transition. Which is really the goal of any change, move, or transformation in terms of what you do. 

Hiring Trends in Litigation 

Here are our four essential findings on hiring trends to share early year 2025:

Increased Demand for Specialized Legal Talent

• Law firms and corporate legal departments are seeking attorneys with niche expertise in areas such as data privacy, cybersecurity, intellectual property, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance.

Integration of Legal Technology and AI

• Firms are prioritizing candidates with proficiency in legal tech tools, AI-driven research platforms, and e-discovery software to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Knowledge of automation and analytics is becoming a valuable asset.

Remote and Hybrid Work Expectations

• Flexible work arrangements remain a top priority for candidates, with firms offering hybrid or fully remote options to attract and retain top litigation talent in a competitive market.

Rising Salaries and Compensation Packages

• A highly competitive job market is driving firms to offer higher salaries, sign-on bonuses, and improved benefits to attract top litigation attorneys, especially those with in-demand skills.

Sidebar:  Hot Markets and Regions for Litigation Associates

Certain markets are experiencing an increased demand for litigation associates due to economic growth and evolving regulatory landscapes. Cities such as New York, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco remain prime destinations for litigation work, with emerging markets like Austin and Miami gaining traction. Firms in these locations are looking for associates with strong litigation experience who can handle complex disputes efficiently.

Key Practice Areas in Demand

The demand for litigation associates is particularly strong in the following practice areas:

• Commercial Litigation 
  • Businesses continue to face contract disputes, class actions, and shareholder litigation, driving demand for associates with commercial litigation experience.
• White-Collar Defense
  • With increased regulatory scrutiny, law firms are expanding their white-collar defense teams to represent clients facing government investigations and enforcement actions.
• Intellectual Property Litigation
  • The rise of technology and innovation has led to an uptick in patent and trademark disputes, making IP litigation a lucrative area for lateral moves.
• Employment Litigation
  • As workplace regulations evolve, companies seek legal support to navigate compliance and dispute resolution effectively.

Top 3 Skills Hiring Partners Value

To successfully transition into a new firm, you must demonstrate that you possess the skills hiring partners value most. Three of the strongest core competencies Carterwill Search has identified include:

• Analytical Reasoning, Trial Preparation, and Persuasive Writing
  • Litigation is built on strong analytical reasoning skills, the ability to prepare compelling trial strategies, and effective persuasive writing. Hiring partners look for associates who can assess complex legal issues and craft arguments that resonate with judges and juries.
• Strong Track Record in Depositions and Case Management
  • Your experience in managing depositions, handling discovery, and overseeing case progress is a valuable asset. Firms prefer candidates with a proven ability to take ownership of cases and deliver results under tight deadlines.
• Client Relationship Management
  • Successful litigation associates not only excel in legal work but also in building and maintaining client relationships. Demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively with clients and anticipate their needs can set you apart in the hiring process.

Steps to Position Yourself for a Successful Transition

A strategic approach to your lateral move involves careful planning and execution. Here are the essential steps to take:

• Update Your Resume to Highlight Quantifiable Results
  • Your resume should reflect your accomplishments with tangible metrics that demonstrate your impact. Instead of simply listing responsibilities, highlight achievements such as "Successfully negotiated a settlement reducing client liability by 30%" or "Managed discovery for a multi-million-dollar commercial dispute."
• Network with Peers and Mentors
  • Building a strong professional network is key to discovering lateral opportunities. Attend industry events, engage with alumni networks, and seek guidance from mentors who have navigated similar career moves. Leveraging these connections can help you uncover hidden job openings and gain valuable insights into firm cultures.
• Consider Timing and Aligning with Your Career Goals
  • Timing plays a critical role in a successful lateral move. Evaluate your long-term career goals and assess whether the move aligns with your aspirations. Consider factors such as firm culture, growth opportunities, and work-life balance before making your decision.
• Leverage Recruiters for Market Insights
  • Working with legal recruiters, such as Carterwill Search, who specialize in litigation hiring can provide you with valuable market insights and access to exclusive job opportunities. Recruiters can help match your skills and preferences with the right firms, streamlining the job search process.
• Prepare for Interviews with a Strategic Mindset
  • Once you secure interviews, preparation is key. Research the firm thoroughly, understand their core practice areas, and be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with their needs. Practice answering common interview questions and prepare thoughtful questions for your potential employers.

A strategic lateral move can be a game-changer for litigation associates looking to advance their careers. By staying informed about hiring trends, honing the right skills, and taking proactive steps, you can position yourself for success in a competitive market. If you are considering a lateral move and need personalized guidance, our team of experts is here to help. Contact Carterwill Search today to discuss your career goals and explore the best opportunities available to you.