Onward Insights - July 2025
A talent crisis is brewing in the legal profession, and it's hiding in plain sight.
While law schools continue producing graduates, the training infrastructure that develops them into experienced practitioners is rapidly shrinking. Summer associate classes are getting smaller each year as firms reassess the economics of entry-level hiring, creating a bottleneck that will leave the entire industry scrambling for mid-level talent within the next five years.
The implications reach far beyond BigLaw. In-house departments, boutique firms, and government agencies all rely on the same pipeline of experienced lawyers – a pipeline that's about to run dry.
We explore why this structural shift is happening, what it means for legal careers, and how smart organizations are already adapting their talent strategies.
The Second Archetype: Why In-House Lawyers Are Built for the Hybrid Era
Why In-House Lawyers Are Built for the Hybrid Era
As the legal world adapts to AI, automation, and cross-functional demands, in-house counsel are uniquely positioned to thrive.
This post explores the "second archetype" — a blend of legal expertise and business fluency — and why it’s essential (not optional) for lawyers navigating corporate environments.
If you're eyeing an in-house move or already in the seat, this is your roadmap to staying relevant, resilient, and ready.
Onward Insights - March 2025
🌱 New Month, Fresh Insights
The March edition of Onward Insights is live, and this one goes way beyond the offer letter.
We’re talking real retention, smarter transitions, and what law firms actually need to keep top talent engaged. Think: onboarding that works, career moves with strategy, and how AI is quietly (and not so quietly) shaking up the legal world.
If you’re building for the long run, whether you’re hiring or being hired, this one’s for you.
👉 Dive in. Let’s grow smarter, together.
In-House Insights: Why Timing Your Move Matters
When is the right time to leave the law firm grind for an in-house role?
If you jump too soon, you risk lower salaries and limited career growth. Wait too long, and you could price yourself out of opportunities.
This article breaks down why 6-10 years of law firm experience is the sweet spot for making a successful in-house transition.
Read on to find out how to maximize your earning power and career trajectory.