Big Law Life

Laura Terrell
  • 4.8(25개의 평가)
  • 직업
  • 매주 업데이트
Big Law Life

On Big Law Life, Laura Terrell and her guests discuss the strategies, steps, relationships and communications you need to navigate the world of large global and national law firms, from the perspective of lawyers, business and legal professionals, in-house counsel, and others with experience working in and around this environment. Laura dives into what you want to know about BigLaw but didn’t learn in law school and what wasn’t covered in your law firm orientation. To learn more about how she works with attorneys and to access her blog and resources, go to www.lauraterrell.com

  1. #63: How to Identify Good Mentors in BigLaw

    23시간 전

    #63: How to Identify Good Mentors in BigLaw

    In today’s episode, I dive into one of the most common challenges for lawyers in large law firms—finding the right mentor. It's a common problem as formal mentoring programs may fall short of providing meaningful guidance, it can be hard to find mentors with the time to really connect with you, and figuring out who is best to help you navigate the particular hurdles you're facing in your work life isn't always clear. In this episode discuss how to identify the potential mentors both inside and outside your firm, how to approach them, and how to cultivate a valuable, long-term mentoring relationship. Whether you’re looking for guidance on firm politics, client relationships, or business development, identifying the right kind of mentor is truly important. I share practical strategies for seeking out mentors who can provide specific, actionable advice—no vague career tips or generic feedback. If you’ve ever struggled to find someone who truly supports your professional growth, this episode will give you a roadmap for making those crucial connections. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction to Big Law Life and how to approach mentoring in Big Law 01:20 Why formal mentoring programs often fall short 02:08 How to identify lawyers who could be strong mentors 03:39 The importance of observing how senior lawyers communicate, give feedback, and handle client relationships 05:18 Learning from lawyers who explain complex concepts clearly and concisely 06:34 Don’t limit yourself. Mentors don’t have to look like you or share your background 07:25 Building an organic relationship instead of asking outright for mentorship 09:07 Making yourself available and showing initiative in seeking mentorship 10:40 Why a single mentor may not meet all your needs & the importance of building a network of mentors 12:15 The value of external mentors and non-lawyer advisors 14:10 How to approach busy lawyers and ask for guidance without overstepping 15:32 Maintaining and nurturing your mentor relationships over time 17:02 How to stay visible to your mentor without becoming a burden 18:24 A strategic approach to checking in with mentors and keeping them engaged 19:08 Acknowledging and appreciating your mentor’s time and contributions 19:39 Why recognizing your mentor’s help strengthens the relationship 20:05 Closing thoughts on the importance of mentorship in Big Law 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

    21분
  2. #62: Key Signs It’s Time for An Associate to Leave Their Law Firm

    3월 5일

    #62: Key Signs It’s Time for An Associate to Leave Their Law Firm

    In today’s episode, I tackle one of the biggest questions associates in large law firms often wrestle with -- when is it time to leave your firm? Some of the key signals that indicate it might be time to start looking elsewhere include when you're struggling to meet your billable hours with no sign of that changing, losing a key partner champion that could help make or break your future at the firm, struggling on the path to partnership or promotion, or seeing troubling shifts in firm culture or compensation.  I also discuss how to time a departure strategically, including how to navigate bonuses and negotiations when making a move. If you’re debating whether to stay or go, this episode offers a clear framework to help you make an informed decision. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction to Big Law Life and today’s topic 01:20 The most common reasons associates consider leaving 02:00 Struggling to meet billable hours: when it’s a personal issue vs. a firm-wide problem 04:14 Why prolonged slow periods (9-12 months) can put your career at risk 04:37 Losing a key partner advocate and how it affects your career trajectory 06:04 When your path to partnership stalls and no one can give you a clear answer why 07:44 Undercompensation as a red flag for firm instability 09:05 Cultural shifts that signal it may be time to leave 11:15 How and when to time your exit strategically 12:17 Final thoughts on evaluating your options before making a move 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

    13분
  3. #61: Why Even Great Lawyers Still Fail to Make Partner

    2월 26일

    #61: Why Even Great Lawyers Still Fail to Make Partner

    In today’s episode, I break down why even highly skilled, well-regarded lawyers can still fail to make partner—and what you can do to avoid that fate. If you’ve been getting great reviews, meeting your billable targets, and even bringing in business but still aren’t seeing a clear path to partnership, you’re not alone. I’ve served on partnership committees and evaluated countless candidates, and I’ve seen three common reasons why some lawyers don’t make the cut. From understanding the financial and structural realities of your firm, to identifying the right advocates, to assessing whether your firm is truly the right fit, this episode covers what you need to be thinking about now if you want to successfully navigate the partnership process. At a Glance: 00:00 Introduction – Why Big Law Life exists and what law school doesn’t teach you 01:20 The frustrating reality: Why talented, high-performing associates can still fail to make partner 03:03 The first critical factor: Understanding your firm’s financials, structure, and business needs 06:00 Why great lawyering isn’t enough—you need to offer something the firm needs right now 06:43 The second critical factor: You need internal advocates, and one key partner to guide you through the process 09:09 How to find the right person to help you—and why the partner you work with most closely might not be the one 11:11 The third critical factor: When failing to make partner has nothing to do with you and everything to do with your firm 12:37 Why some firms have an unspoken “type” that makes partnership harder for certain lawyers 14:29 Key questions to ask yourself before committing to partnership at your firm 15:15 Final thoughts on strategically crafting your path to partnership 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

    16분
  4. #60: How Junior Partners Can Compete for Work and Clients

    2월 19일

    #60: How Junior Partners Can Compete for Work and Clients

    In today’s episode, I discuss how junior partners in large law firms can differentiate themselves within their firms and the broader market. Many newly minted partners find themselves competing against more experienced colleagues for work and visibility. I explore strategies for carving out a niche, leveraging unique skills beyond legal expertise, and actively marketing yourself both internally and externally. From highlighting non-traditional strengths like financial management and team leadership to optimizing your law firm bio and LinkedIn presence, I provide actionable insights to help lawyers build their brand and position themselves for long-term success. At a Glance: 0:00 Introduction – Challenges junior partners face in standing out internally and externally 1:20 Why senior attorneys often get priority for work 2:57 Identifying what made you a partner and leveraging it 5:06 Using AI, cannabis law, and other niches to stand out 7:15 Management and budgeting can set you apart 9:02 Positioning yourself as indispensable within the firm 10:45 Using LinkedIn and branding to gain visibility 12:30 How most lawyers miss opportunities to highlight strengths 14:15 Getting credit for your contributions when the firm doesn’t 16:40 Using LinkedIn and Substack to showcase expertise 18:55 Posting insights to build credibility 21:30 The value of self-promotion and differentiation 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

    15분
  5. #59: Choose How Many Hours You Bill: Steptoe’s New Associate Compensation Model with Kate Cappaert

    2월 12일

    #59: Choose How Many Hours You Bill: Steptoe’s New Associate Compensation Model with Kate Cappaert

    In today’s episode, I sit down with Kate Cappaert, a partner in the Intellectual Property group at Steptoe. We discuss a major shift in Steptoe’s associate compensation—one that gives lawyers more control over their careers and work-life balance.  Steptoe’s new model allows associates to choose from three different billable hour targets, with corresponding salary levels, providing a level of flexibility rarely seen in Big Law. We explore how this model was developed, the firm’s commitment to maintaining an open dialogue with associates, and what it means for career progression, partnership considerations, and recruiting.  Kate, who serves as chair of Steptoe’s Professional Development Committee, shares insights into how the firm designed this initiative to address long-standing concerns from associates while ensuring that firm goals and client service standards remain intact. At a Glance: 0:00 Introduction: The shift in associate compensation that led Steptoe to rethink the billable hour model 1:20 A unique approach: Why Steptoe introduced three billable hour targets and how they work 2:57 The firm’s motivation: What associates wanted and how this model addresses their concerns 5:06 Flexibility with structure: How the tiered approach allows associates to adjust their hours annually 7:15 First-year associates: Why they start with a standard target before choosing a path 9:02 Moving across tiers: How associates can adjust their billable targets over time 10:45 Impact on partnership: Whether choosing a lower tier affects promotion prospects 12:30 Compensation considerations: How salary and bonuses are structured within this model 14:15 Partner perspectives: How firm leadership responded to this shift in associate compensation 16:40 Recruiting implications: How this new model is shaping lateral hiring and on-campus recruiting 18:55 Training integration: How non-billable training hours are factored into the new compensation model 21:30 Looking ahead: How Steptoe will evaluate the success of this approach in 2025 Article describing Steptoe’s associate compensation program: https://www.law.com/americanlawyer/2024/12/09/steptoe-offers-associates-new-flexible-billable-hour-tracks-in-revamped-comp-system/ 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. How to reach Kate Cappaert: https://www.steptoe.com/en/lawyers/katherine-cappaert.html 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

    29분
  6. #58: Should You Take a Counsel Role In BigLaw? Critical Questions to Ask First

    2월 5일

    #58: Should You Take a Counsel Role In BigLaw? Critical Questions to Ask First

    In today’s episode, I break down the nuances of the counsel role in Big Law—what it really means, how it differs across firms, and whether it can be a stepping stone to partnership or a career dead-end. I address the biggest challenges lawyers face when considering a counsel position, including unclear compensation structures, lack of business development credit, and the evolving role of non-equity partners. If you're thinking about a counsel position—whether as a promotion or a lateral move—this episode will help you ask the right questions to ensure it aligns with your career goals. At a Glance: 0:00 Introduction: The evolving role of counsel in Big Law and why it varies across firms 1:20 Lack of a clear definition: Why counsel roles differ significantly between firms 2:06 Counsel as contract attorneys: How some firms use the role to retain talent without long-term commitments 3:07 Counsel as a path to partnership: When the role is a stepping stone versus a permanent position 4:23 Key questions to ask: Understanding firm expectations before accepting a counsel offer 5:16 Business development expectations: Whether counsels receive credit or budget for generating clients 7:23 Compensation uncertainty: How salary and bonus structures for counsels differ from associates and partners 9:02 When a counsel role makes sense: Strategic reasons for choosing counsel over partner or associate positions 12:00 The changing landscape: How the rise of non-equity partners is reshaping the counsel role   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

    14분
  7. #57: How Law Firms Can Build Stronger Partners Through Training - with Latham & Watkins’ Andrew Clark

    1월 29일

    #57: How Law Firms Can Build Stronger Partners Through Training - with Latham & Watkins’ Andrew Clark

    In today’s episode, I talk with Andrew Clark, a partner with Latham & Watkins and the global chair of the firm's Training and Career Enhancement Committee. Andrew shares how Latham develops its partners and other lawyers through a structured and comprehensive training program that evolves at every stage of their career.  From preparing new partners for leadership roles to equipping junior partners to deepen their client relationships and build their practices, Andrew gives us an inside look at how Latham is setting up its attorneys for long-term success.  We also discuss the unique role of business professionals in shaping law firm training and the firm’s work in training its lawyers to leverage generative AI. At a Glance: 0:00 Introduction: Andrew  discusses ongoing training for partners beyond when they are promoted into their partner roles 1:20 Importance of partner development: Preparing for leadership and client management 2:24 Andrew’s career journey: From Latham’s London office to leading global training initiatives 4:02 Partner involvement in firm management and training programs 6:01 Multi-stage partner training: New Partner Academy and Junior Partner Development Retreat 9:17 Financial literacy and business development: Preparing partners for understand client needs and demands 12:13 Integrating lateral partners: Communicating and strengthening understanding of firm culture through structured training 14:28 Rainmaker panel: Insights into business development from partners who role-play a simulated client pitch 18:27 Contributions of business professionals: Elevating law firm training programs to include education and support from business and training experts in the firm 21:53 External experts in training: Lessons from outside speakers, including military leaders and others 24:57 Generational shifts: Adapting training for Gen Z attorneys 30:01 Latham’s AI Academy: Preparing lawyers for the future of legal practice 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. How to reach Andrew Clark: https://www.lw.com/en/people/andrew-clark  Link to more information Latham & Watkins’ lawyer development and training: https://www.lw.com/en/about-us/lawyer-development 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

    37분
  8. #56: Navigating Difficult Client Relationships in Big Law

    1월 22일

    #56: Navigating Difficult Client Relationships in Big Law

    One of the most challenging aspects of legal practice is managing difficult client relationships in a high-stakes environment. In today's episode I'll share how to navigate the tough moments when you may be struggling to work with clients that can frustrate your attempts to engage and deliver your best work. At a Glance: 0:00 Introduction: Managing client expectations and setting boundaries 1:20 Common frustrations in client relationships: The stress of meeting high demands and client conflicts 2:43 The importance of engagement letters and billing guidelines in setting client expectations 5:22 Addressing surprise costs: Transparent communication about fee changes 6:21 Staying professional under client criticism: Shifting focus to facts over emotions 8:21 Case study: Escalating client issues when partners are unresponsive 10:12 Listening to difficult clients: Understanding their frustrations beyond the surface 13:17 Knowing when to withdraw from challenging client relationships 14:29 Helping clients navigate their own internal organizational challenges 16:11 Building trust by aligning legal strategies with business concerns 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

    17분
모두 보기(63개)

4.8
최고 5점
25개의 평가

소개

On Big Law Life, Laura Terrell and her guests discuss the strategies, steps, relationships and communications you need to navigate the world of large global and national law firms, from the perspective of lawyers, business and legal professionals, in-house counsel, and others with experience working in and around this environment. Laura dives into what you want to know about BigLaw but didn’t learn in law school and what wasn’t covered in your law firm orientation. To learn more about how she works with attorneys and to access her blog and resources, go to www.lauraterrell.com

정보

  • 제작진
    Laura Terrell
  • 방송 연도
    2024년 - 2025년
  • 에피소드
    63
  • 등급
    전체 연령 사용가
  • 저작권
    © 2024
  • 웹사이트 보기
    Big Law Life

좋아할 만한 다른 항목

무삭제판 에피소드를 청취하려면 로그인하십시오.

이 프로그램의 최신 정보 받기

프로그램을 팔로우하고, 에피소드를 저장하고, 최신 소식을 받아보려면 로그인하거나 가입하십시오.
국가 또는 지역 선택

아프리카, 중동 및 인도

아시아 태평양

유럽

라틴 아메리카 및 카리브해

미국 및 캐나다