At this point in 2024, there has been a somewhat constant stream of lateral associate openings for antitrust practices. While most of these openings can be found in the DC and New York markets, some openings are available nationally. I have placed multiple associates into antitrust practices at BigLaw firms.
There are many reasons why antitrust associates might consider a lateral move. For some, the reasons are similar to what you might find for associates in other BigLaw practices - for example, making a geographic move or moving to a firm with great advancement prospects. But when it comes to an antitrust practice, there are also associates that move in order to change the nature of their very specific practice. Maybe they have been specializing in more litigation regulatory work and would like to do more transaction-advisory work in order to have better prospects for corporate in-house positions. Or maybe their current work is very specific and they would like to have a broader, more holistic antitrust practice. Additionally, each antitrust practice has its own work environment, expectations, and opportunities for professional development. Maybe there is a firm that has a stronger mentorship program or a more flexible work from home policy.
Whatever the reason an antitrust associate might consider a lateral move, there are opportunities right now for them to consider. Here's a closer look at some trends I have noticed:
Demand for Antitrust Associate Talent is Across Regulatory, Transactional and Litigation Lines. The need for antitrust associates includes those with a specialized regulatory practice (e.g., those with Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) filing experience), those who advise on antitrust issues for large transactional matters and those who have experience litigating antitrust issues. The type and breadth of the need will depend on the specific firm and opening. But there are openings out there across these different subspecialties.
Most Demand is for Mid-Level Associates. Like lateral associate openings in other BigLaw practices, most antitrust associate openings are for mid-level associates. This means that antitrust associates with 3 to 5 years of experience have the most options available. However, there are also positions for junior associates and more senior roles, depending on the firm's needs and the associate's experience.
Opportunities are Concentrated in NY and DC with Some Firms Open to Any Office. Antitrust practices are concentrated in the two largest legal markets in the U.S. - New York City and Washington, DC. Given NY's preeminence for transactional work and DC's focus on litigation and regulatory work, this makes a lot of sense (though antitrust positions out there are not necessarily segmented by market in this way). However, as a result of the increase in remote and national hiring starting in 2020/2021, more firms are open to filling positions such as antitrust associate needs in any of their national offices.
In conclusion, antitrust associates considering a lateral move have a range of opportunities available, especially if they have mid-level experience and are open to working in major legal markets. By carefully considering their career goals and the specific opportunities available, associates can find positions that align with their professional aspirations and personal needs.