Why do people not dare to exit law firms when they are unhappy ?

likehelpful
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I feel so busy and overwhelmed I can’t even think about my next move. I don’t have the time to step back and think because whenever I’m not working, I’m trying to relax. I also don’t have the kind of experience that would put me in a good position to take a next step unless it was into government or something (and I doubt they’d have me either).

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Money?

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Several hundred thousand dollars a year prolly

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Career inertia is real; despite how hard things get, it's often easier to just grit your teeth and endure. Lawyers aren't risk-takers by nature. The biglaw grind may mean you haven't made a lot of non-law friends, especially if you moved to a new city after law school. This leads to "keeping up with the Joneses" and all that toxic BS.

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People stay for all the reasons people here have pointed to. But, more people than it may seem do get out. It can just be hard to see from inside the bubble. Look for those stories and evidence of alternative paths working out. You could start with my podcast, The Lawyer’s Escape Pod - lots of good inspiration there.

likehelpful

I have lateraled twice and am now going in house due to being unhappy each time. Each time I made more money. In 4 years I went from $120k to $250k and this next role is my highest paying and my WLB should finally be what I want.

likesmart

Fear and money and sunk cost

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