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Tips for breaking into a new practice area

June 5, 2023

In the dynamic landscape of today’s professional world, versatility is key. As a legal professional, broadening your expertise and branching into new practice areas can open doors to new opportunities, challenges, and professional growth.

Whether you’re a seasoned attorney eyeing a fresh perspective or a newly minted law graduate considering your options, venturing into a new practice area can be a rewarding journey. In this post, we will delve into effective strategies to navigate these transitions and provide tips for seamlessly breaking into new areas of practice. Let’s get ready to embark on an exciting path of learning, adaptation, and advancement.Lawyers consult on various lawsuits

Changing practice areas isn’t just for lawyers

As the legal industry continues to evolve, so does the demand for a diverse range of expertise. This expanding horizon isn’t exclusive to lawyers alone; paralegals, legal support staff, other non-attorney professionals within the sector, and law firms themselves are also realizing the benefits of diversifying their skills and knowledge across different practice areas.

The digital age has transformed the legal landscape, introducing new specialties such as cyber law, data privacy, and intellectual property rights. It’s not just lawyers who need to navigate these waters; paralegals and other law firm staff also need to adapt. For instance, a paralegal specializing in family law might see tremendous value in learning about digital forensics for cases involving electronic evidence.

In addition, other non-attorney roles, such as legal project managers and legal technology specialists, are playing increasingly vital roles in law firms and corporate legal departments. These professionals often have cross-disciplinary roles that can greatly benefit from a broad understanding of various legal practice areas.

The takeaway is clear: anyone working in the legal field can reap the rewards of expanding their expertise into new practice areas. Not only does it enhance employability and value to the team, but it also provides a stimulating professional journey. Embracing change and lifelong learning isn’t just a lawyer’s game – it’s a strategy for success in any legal profession.


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Do market research

Transitioning into a new legal practice area starts with thorough market research. You need to navigate the intricate legal landscape and identify areas with robust growth potential, such as emerging fields like cyber or environmental law, that align with your personal interests and aptitude.

Delve into these areas by understanding their challenges, typical case types, clientele, and regulations. Review job listings to familiarize yourself with required skills and qualifications. Networking with professionals in the field can provide invaluable firsthand insights.

Consider the geographical demand for your prospective area as well; some legal specialties might have higher demand in certain regions due to local industries or demographics. Conducting diligent market research equips you with crucial insights for a successful transition into a new practice area, regardless of your role within the legal profession.

Create new connections and networks

As you embark on your journey into a new practice area, creating strong connections and networks is crucial. The interconnected world of law thrives on relationships, and cultivating a broad, diverse network can provide you with insights, guidance, and opportunities that make your transition smoother.

Start by leveraging your existing relationships – colleagues, mentors, or professors may have contacts in your new field of interest. Attend industry events, join legal associations, and engage with relevant groups on platforms like LinkedIn. These activities allow you to meet professionals in your target area, learn from their experiences, and establish your presence.

Simultaneously, it’s vital to establish a relationship with a reputable legal recruiter. Recruiters have in-depth knowledge of the legal job market and established relationships with law firms and legal departments. They can provide guidance on required skills and qualifications, help you position yourself effectively, and connect you with potential opportunities that you might not find on your own.

A two-way street, networking involves both learning and contributing. Share your insights and experiences, offer help where possible, and build reciprocal relationships. Consider finding a mentor within your new practice area for personalized guidance and support.

The power of a strong network, including both peers and experienced recruiters, cannot be underestimated when transitioning to a new practice area. The relationships you build will be key steppingstones on your new professional path.

Find a mentor

Transitioning to a new practice area can be made smoother with the guidance of a mentor. Experienced in your field of interest, a mentor can help you navigate challenges, fast-track your learning, and avoid common pitfalls.

Begin by reaching out to professionals you admire in the new area. Express your eagerness to learn and ask for their mentorship. While they guide you, reciprocate by being proactive, committed, and respectful of their time.

The mentor-mentee relationship, based on mutual respect and shared interests, can be an enriching aspect of your transition. A mentor offers not just expertise but also moral support and inspiration, playing a significant role in your successful shift into a new practice area.

Maintain and leverage your current network

As you build new connections in your target practice area, don’t overlook the value of your existing network. The colleagues, mentors, and clients you already know can be instrumental during your transition.

These individuals may have ties to your new field, able to provide introductions or valuable insights. Inform them about your plans to shift practice areas; their support and advice could lead to unforeseen resources or collaborative opportunities.

Your current network knows your skills and work ethic and can be effective ambassadors for you in their circles. Remember, your established network is not just a part of your past but a valuable asset for your future, playing a key role in your journey into a new area of legal practice.

Review your brand and marketing

As you transition into a new practice area, aligning your personal brand and marketing strategy with your new focus is crucial. Your brand, your professional image, must now reflect your new expertise and values.

Begin by updating your digital presence on platforms like LinkedIn and your professional website, ensuring they highlight your new area of practice. Include any relevant courses, projects, or experiences that underline your commitment.

Engage in creating relevant content, such as blog posts or webinars, to demonstrate your knowledge and dedication. This not only boosts your visibility but also establishes your credibility in your new field.

Don’t overlook offline marketing; ensure materials like business cards also reflect your new practice area. By strategically reshaping your brand, you reinforce your readiness for this exciting new professional path.

Get ready to study

Transitioning to a new practice area in law requires not just networking and branding, but also a significant investment in learning. You are about to embark on a journey that involves intensive study to understand the intricacies of your new field.

Begin by exploring educational resources. This could include enrolling in relevant courses, attending webinars or workshops, reading legal journals, and keeping abreast of the latest news and legal developments in your new practice area.

Remember, the law is a field defined by precedents and ever-evolving regulations. Therefore, understanding historical landmark cases as well as staying up-to-date with current case law is crucial.

Finally, leverage your network to identify the most beneficial learning resources. Colleagues, mentors, or professional contacts might recommend specific books, courses, or study materials that were instrumental in their own learning.

While this process will require time and dedication, it’s an invaluable investment in your future. By immersing yourself in study, you’ll not only gain the knowledge necessary to practice in your new area, but also demonstrate your commitment to this new professional path.

Consider relocation if your practice isn’t big in your area

As you transition into a new practice area, it’s crucial to consider geographical demand. If your chosen field is not highly prevalent in your current location, it may be worth considering relocation. Different regions have varying demands for specific legal specialties, shaped by factors such as local industries, regulations, or demographics.

If relocation seems daunting, remember that this decision can open up a host of new opportunities. Moving to a city or region with a higher demand for your new practice area can enhance your career prospects and provide you with a richer professional experience.

Working with a recruiter, such as Momentum, can be highly beneficial in this situation. Recruiters have a comprehensive understanding of the legal job market, both nationally and regionally. They can provide insights into job opportunities in different locations, assist with job applications, and offer advice on the relocation process.

In conclusion, breaking into a new practice area is a bold step filled with learning, networking, and personal growth. Whether you’re expanding your current expertise or completely switching directions, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. And, in the grand scheme of things, even a geographical move could be the steppingstone to the next exciting phase of your career. Contact Momentum today and get started on embracing the journey.

Categories: Career Goals, Job Success

Jane Pollard

About Jane Pollard

Partner

A founding member of Momentum Search Partners, Jane manages all aspects of its operations, many of its client relationships, and also works a recruiting desk. She has successfully completed attorney searches ranging from executive-level general counsels and chief compliance officers to AGCs and compliance analysts for both for public and private companies, and has also placed attorneys at law firms. Jane obtained her JD with honors from the University of Texas and, prior to recruiting, was a commercial litigator in private practice with a large law firm and a CPA. She lives in Austin with her husband, who is also a lawyer, and spends her free time cycling and playing racquet sports. For questions, comments, or suggestions related to our blog, you can contact us via our website or visit Jane on LinkedIn.

Jennifer Nelson

About Jennifer Nelson

Partner

As a founding member of Momentum Search Partners, Jennifer has developed longstanding and invaluable relationships with both corporate in-house legal departments and law firms across the state of Texas. She handles complex searches that require deep industry knowledge and focuses on identifying high-caliber attorneys and compliance professionals. A native Texan and third generation Longhorn, Jennifer has two sons who followed her at The University of Texas. Jennifer lives in Austin with her husband a longstanding oil & gas attorney, and values her family, friends and faith. For questions, comments, or suggestions related to our blog, you can contact us via our website or visit Jennifer on LinkedIn.

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