Some formulas for success are a safe bet; others should come with a warning label. So say law placement counselors, recruiters and law firm hiring partners as they survey which practice specialities are likely to lead to a new or better-paying job in this marketplace.

On the face of it, it looks as though intellectual property and corporate law are neck and neck as the most in demand. Intellectual property is so hot that even lawyers with mediocre credentials are being courted for choice jobs.