#54: Specialization v. Broader Practice: Navigating Career Paths for Associates in BigLaw

In today’s episode, I dive into one of the most important decisions lawyers in large law firms face: whether to specialize in a specific practice area or maintain a broader portfolio of work. Drawing from my own experiences and years of coaching attorneys, I discuss how to assess the benefits and risks of specialization, navigate the expectations of your firm, and balance developing expertise with building a resilient and adaptable skill set. 

I share real-world examples of lawyers who have successfully crafted their careers by understanding when to focus and when to broaden their practice, offering actionable advice for associates and partners alike. Whether you’re starting your career, planning a lateral move, or considering a pivot, this episode provides practical strategies for standing out in Big Law.

At a Glance:

• 0:00 Introduction to today’s focus on specialization and flexibility

• 1:20 The question of broad versus specialized practice areas

• 2:05 Identifying your short- and long-term career goals

• 2:48 Early trial experience: balancing courtroom skills with specialization

• 3:32 Choosing the right firm and practice area to advance your expertise

• 5:12 How to differentiate yourself within competitive practice groups

• 6:49 The importance of maintaining a broader skill set for market resilience

• 7:57 Why firms value adaptability in associates and partners

• 9:09 Pivoting into high-demand areas like healthcare law

• 9:30 Understanding the concept of "legal athletes" in in-house roles

• 11:27 Broader skills essential to success: management and budgeting

• 12:18 Final thoughts on balancing specialization and flexibility

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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