How easy is it to go back to big law after doing a few years in house? I am a senior associate planning to take a job in-house at a healthcare company. I’m curious how difficult it would be to go back to big law in a couple of years, either as an associate or counsel, if I wanted to go back.

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Nothing is ever guaranteed, but if you have the right experience, skill set, and can show how you'll bring value to a firm, I don't see why you at least wouldn't be considered for a role. That happened to me -- very little law firm experience to start my career, then 10+ years in-house, and recently joined a major international firm.

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It depends on what you would like to go back as: Associate to partner track, of counsel or come back as a partner? If you go in-house and then move to a firm and your former employer comes along as a new client with a big bill you'd find moving to be really easy. If you're coming back without any portable business it could be difficult but not impossible if the former company has name recognition or if the work experience is useful for a firm. Lastly, if you leave on great terms you might be able to come back to your current firm (this is pretty common for people that leave and go to the government for example).

Best of luck with your decision!

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Agree with SLR1. Most firms are not looking to hire a senior attorney or partner without the prospect of a book of business. I have talked to my firm colleagues and those firms seeking to consolidate will be a tough sell without the prospect of bringing in established clients. If you have connections, those are a great place to start, such as firms you regularly send work to when you don’t have the resources or necessary expertise in-house.

I think right now, in this market, anything goes. What may be a traditionally tricky path could be a very easy one depending on your pedigree, previous firm and practice area in the current environment. Corporate and real estate teams are desperate for help and are willing to be more creative than usual.

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