One of the most common, and frequently coveted, professional transitions an attorney can make is the move from private practice to in-house counsel. As well-worn as this path may be, it is not without its challenges and perils. Nevertheless, over the years, we have advised a good number of attorneys who have moved back and forth between private practice and in-house positions. The collective wisdom of these lawyers can ease the way for those who are making similar moves now. Overall, the advice to new in-house attorneys can be grouped into three general maxims:
1. Recognize Your Client: the Company
All good attorneys know that their business is client-based. Private practice is built around clients: acquiring them, managing them, and, ultimately, serving them. One hallmark of a successful attorney in private practice is the ability to manage and serve multiple clients, often across different industries, all at the same time. Moreover, as a practical matter, the lawyer in private practice often sees the in-house attorney as the client.
