Is it too late to completely switch practice areas as a fourth year associate?

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No, but it gets tougher the longer you wait.

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I am a third year now, but economy is shit. Hoping it recovers this time next year

I switched from tax to corporate as a fourth year and took a two-year class hit. It can be done.

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You'll take a class year hit probably, but that would give you a longer runway to learn the substance while still being valuable in that you actually know a little about how to practice. It can be done, but may be easier in the context of a move to a new firm. I've seen it be pretty tough to do in firm but ymmv

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It is definitely possible, but it takes extra work on your own time and compromise. Ie, depending on how much or how little your skills will transfer to the new practice area, being ok with starting over as a junior associate.

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Did it twice. As a 3rd year and then again as a 6th year. No class year cut. All were transactional practices. But market today is very different from last year. YMMV.

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It depends. Which area do you want to switch into?

M&A or international trade. Need to pick a lane. I’m in a regulatory practice

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I’m pretty busy in my regulatory practice, are you slow rn?

No, just want a change

It’s hard if they’re unrelated to each other and you want to stay in BL once you’re past a certain point. Biglaw is allergic to people who it sees as flaky or uncommitted.

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Dear first years,

When my door is closed, I am in the middle of something and trying to focus. Please stop knocking and letting yourself in to chat. I want to help you, I really do, but if my door is closed it means I am not able to help you right this second. I promise that my door will be open when I am available to do so.

Signed,
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Edit: any advice on how to say this IRL without crushing their spirits?

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