In 2025, a significant shift occurred in the landscape of legal hiring, as major U.S. law firms dramatically increased their lateral recruiting of attorneys with government experience. This trend is reshaping the legal profession, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the demand for regulatory and policy expertise is at an all-time high. The surge in hiring former government attorneys can be attributed to a variety of factors, including agency reorganizations, retirements, and an overall increase in the need for professionals with a deep understanding of government affairs.
This influx of government attorneys, which is reported to have more than doubled in comparison to recent years, is creating both new opportunities and challenges for law firms. High-profile firms such as WilmerHale, Covington & Burling, and Morgan Lewis have emerged as some of the primary destinations for these recruits. The increase in hires reflects a broader industry trend, as law firms have begun to recognize the significant value that experienced government lawyers bring to their teams, especially in areas such as regulatory compliance, public policy, and government investigations.
A key driver behind this increase in lateral hiring is the ongoing changes within federal agencies, including reorganizations that have led to a wave of retirements among senior government attorneys. These shifts have created openings for talented legal professionals to transition from public sector roles into private practice. The changing dynamics within federal agencies have resulted in a pool of seasoned attorneys who possess a wealth of experience in navigating the complexities of government regulations, enforcement actions, and policy-making processes. Law firms are eager to tap into this talent pool to meet the growing demand for legal expertise in regulatory and public affairs.
The surge in government attorney hires is not just a short-term phenomenon; it represents a fundamental shift in the way law firms approach talent acquisition. Historically, large law firms have focused on recruiting top-tier talent from prestigious law schools or within their own ranks. However, in recent years, there has been a notable shift toward prioritizing candidates with specialized knowledge in government affairs. This change is driven by the increasing complexity of the regulatory environment, as well as the growing importance of understanding the intersection of law, government, and public policy.
With the influx of government attorneys, firms are finding themselves needing to adapt quickly to accommodate this new cohort. Integrating former government lawyers into private practice can be a challenge, as these professionals often come from a different work culture and have different expectations about career progression and compensation. Additionally, law firms must find ways to effectively harness the skills and expertise of these new recruits, particularly in areas such as government investigations, regulatory compliance, and public policy strategy.
The trend of hiring former government attorneys is expected to continue in the coming years, as law firms seek to capitalize on the growing demand for expertise in areas such as antitrust, environmental law, and cybersecurity. As more attorneys transition from government positions to private practice, firms will continue to refine their hiring practices and integration strategies to ensure that they are able to maximize the value of this influx of talent.
The impact of this trend is also likely to be felt by clients, who will benefit from having access to attorneys with deep insights into government processes and the ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks. The growing number of government attorneys in private practice will provide clients with a unique advantage, as these professionals bring firsthand knowledge of how government agencies operate and make decisions. In addition, these attorneys can offer valuable insights into the intricacies of government investigations and enforcement actions, helping clients to better navigate the often-turbulent waters of government regulation.
Overall, the surge in government attorney hires marks a new chapter in the evolution of big law firms. As the legal profession continues to evolve, firms that are able to adapt to these changes and effectively integrate former government attorneys will be well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly competitive and complex legal market. The increased focus on government experience within law firms is a reflection of broader trends in the legal profession, where regulatory expertise is becoming more essential than ever before.
This trend not only underscores the importance of having attorneys with government experience, but also highlights the ways in which law firms are reshaping their business models to meet the needs of their clients in a rapidly changing regulatory environment. The influx of government attorneys into private practice is likely to have lasting implications for the structure and future of the legal industry.
