Should I Retool?
Law school does not teach aspiring lawyers what a technology transactions practice really looks like day-to-day or what a commercial litigation practice actually entails. Yet students are often asked to choose a specialty by the end of their 1L year when they are interviewing for 2L summer roles or right after a 10-week-long 2L summer associate stint.
It is no surprise that many junior associates feel some regret once they start their first year of practice. For the first time, they are getting true exposure to firm life and realizing another practice might be a better fit for their strengths and interests.
When a lawyer decides to move from one practice area into another after already practicing, it is called a retool. Retooling is absolutely possible, but it comes with challenges and considerations.
Why Are You Interested in Retooling?
Sometimes associates believe the grass is greener in transactional work because they dislike the adversarial nature of litigation. That can be true, but before making a move, be certain your frustration is with the substantive work itself, not simply with the pace, demands, or structure of Big Law or private practice in general.
If those are the root issues, switching practice areas will not fix them.
Are You Willing to Accept a Class Year Cut?
Depending on your seniority, potential employers may ask if you are open to a class year cut. Many associates decide the retool is worth it for long-term career satisfaction, even if it means stepping back a year in seniority.
That said, not every retool comes with a cut.
Early retools, such as a first-year associate who switches mid-year, may progress with their original JD class.
Later retools, such as a third-year switching from a litigation practice to a transactional practice, are more likely to be offered a role with a year cut.
While some associates who retool receive offers aligned with their original JD class, it is important to approach the process with realistic expectations.
Applying Broadly Matters More Than Ever
When you retool, you cannot hit the ground running on day one. Firms know they will be training you in a whole new practice area. That means the lateral search often takes longer and success often comes to those who cast a wide net.
Not All Retools Are Created Equal
Some retools are simply easier than others.
Moving from corporate work to real estate is generally more straightforward.
Moving from commercial litigation to a transactional practice is typically more challenging.
The greater the difference between your current practice and your target practice, the steeper the learning curve and the harder the sell to potential employers.
The Bottom Line
Retooling can be one of the most rewarding moves in your career. For the right reasons, it can dramatically improve your day-to-day satisfaction and long-term trajectory.
But before you make the leap:
Be sure your motivations are tied to the work itself, not frustrations with your current firm or workplace culture.
Understand the possibility of a class year cut.
Apply broadly and be prepared for a longer-than-usual search.
If you have a clear and well-thought-out reason for retooling, the process, while more challenging than a standard lateral move, can absolutely be worth it.