BigLaw Firms Reassess Hiring Strategy Amid Political Turbulence
April 10, 2025, 12:23 pm CDT
Law firms are critically evaluating their practices in light of the evolving political landscape.
In the wake of a tumultuous presidential transition, many large law firms, commonly referred to as BigLaw, are curtailing their recruiting and hiring initiatives. Observers cite a climate of economic uncertainty surrounding the current administration as a potential driver of this trend.
Strategic Reevaluation of Practices
Many law firms are taking the opportunity to reevaluate their business models, focusing on sustainable practices amidst a dynamic political backdrop. They are particularly scrutinizing areas such as regulatory compliance and white-collar criminal defense, alongside their pro bono initiatives. Furthermore, some firms are reassessing their diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies to align with the changing landscape.
Lauren Drake, a partner at the Washington, D.C., branch of recruiting firm Macrae, states, “What we’re hearing is tremendous uncertainty and apprehension. Firms are taking time to reassess their internal priorities and planning, which inevitably slows recruiting efforts.”
Impact of Executive Actions
The legal sector has recently faced challenges following President Trump’s targeted executive orders against certain prominent law firms, which included withdrawing security clearances for their employees. This has led to varying responses within the industry regarding collaboration or resistance to the administration’s directives.
Jeffrey A. Lowe, president of CenterPeak, notes a “chilling effect in Washington,” indicating that firms are wary of actions that might draw unfavorable attention. “There’s a ripple effect as firms try to determine how to avoid disfavor, particularly regarding their hiring choices,” he explains. “In a conservative business approach, caution tends to prevail.”
Distinct Challenges in Transition Periods
Transition periods typically see an increase in movement as government lawyers consider private practice opportunities. Legal recruiters often note this uptick as firms assess growth avenues and candidate profiles.
However, Drake observes that the current atmosphere “feels different.” The uncertainty surrounding business operations under scrutiny presents unprecedented challenges for law firms. Job seekers from government positions have flooded the market due to mass layoffs, adding to the recruiting complexities.
Legal Industry Transformation
The Trump administration’s approach to law firms marked a significant shift in the legal landscape. The administration’s executive order particularly aimed at Perkins Coie, and other firms associated with high-profile political events has raised apprehensions across the sector. In March, Trump threatened to revoke clearance and access rights, questioning the viability of continued government contracts for those firms.
In response, over 50 bar associations, alongside the American Bar Association, unified to defend the rule of law, asserting that the government should not penalize lawyers for advocating for their clients. This moment may define BigLaw’s strategies in the foreseeable future, as they navigate the challenging political waters.
Evolving Nature of Legal Practices
The ongoing uncertainty likely will influence both the regulatory landscape and the demand for lawyers specializing in white-collar crime, as enforcement might shift towards state levels. As noted by Lowe, law firms that are heavily reliant on government contracts and practices may face significant hurdles and may need to pivot strategically.
The Future of Pro Bono Work
BigLaw firms have historically seen their pro bono work as a pillar for recruitment and morale. However, the current political climate could discourage firms from engaging in high-stakes pro bono litigation against the government to mitigate potential backlash, raising concerns about access to legal representation for clients in need.
Legal professionals are increasingly vocal about their positions on social media, leading to heightened scrutiny of firms’ decisions—including participation in pro bono cases against the administration.
Amid these shifting dynamics, law schools and students are also voicing their discontent with firms perceived as lacking in principled positions against government actions. As pressure mounts for firms to respond to their associates and potential recruits, the evolving landscape poses both risks and opportunities for the future of legal practice.
