The legal job market is shifting, and not all practice areas are growing at the same pace. Law firms are strategically expanding in response to client demand, regulatory changes, and economic shifts—creating major opportunities for laterals in certain fields. If you’re considering a move, knowing where firms are hiring can give you a significant advantage.
1. Restructuring & Bankruptcy
The surge in corporate bankruptcies has put restructuring lawyers in high demand. In 2024, U.S. corporate bankruptcy filings hit a 14-year high, driven by inflation, interest rates, and post-pandemic financial strain. Firms and private-credit giants like Blackstone and Goldman Sachs are building up restructuring teams to navigate complex liability management and distressed asset deals.
👉 If you have experience in financial restructuring, distressed M&A, or debt workouts, your skills are in high demand. (Source: WSJ)
2. Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
Despite some economic uncertainty, M&A remains a priority for law firms. Firms like Paul Hastings, Paul Weiss, and Freshfields have aggressively recruited top dealmakers, investing in their M&A teams to handle high-value transactions. Since 2022, Paul Hastings alone has added 20 new M&A partners—a clear sign of the sector’s long-term strength.
👉 Lateral candidates with experience in cross-border M&A, private equity transactions, and regulatory approvals are especially valuable. (Source: WSJ)
3. Energy & Environmental Law
The global energy transition is fueling demand for legal expertise in renewable energy projects, regulatory compliance, and environmental litigation. Countries like Australia are already seeing a hiring boom for energy lawyers, and this trend is mirrored globally as governments and corporations shift toward sustainable practices.
👉 If you specialize in energy law, ESG compliance, or carbon markets, firms are actively hiring. (Source: The Australian)
4. Regulatory & Compliance
With anticipated trade policy changes in the U.S., regulatory lawyers are in high demand. Companies are preparing for potential trade conflicts, tariffs, and supply chain disruptions, turning to law firms for guidance.
👉 If you have expertise in trade law, financial regulations, or corporate compliance, your skills will be increasingly valuable. (Source: FT)
5. Cybersecurity & Data Privacy
With the rise in cyber threats and data breaches, law firms are expanding their cybersecurity and data privacy teams. Clients need legal strategies for data protection, compliance with evolving regulations, and breach response protocols.
👉 If your background includes cybersecurity law, GDPR, or privacy litigation, this is a strong growth area. (Source: Clio)
6. Intellectual Property (IP)
Tech innovation is driving demand for lawyers who protect patents, trademarks, and copyrights. From AI-generated content disputes to biotech patents, firms are actively recruiting to support their tech-sector clients.
👉 Lateral moves in IP litigation, patent prosecution, and tech licensing are trending upward. (Source: Clio)
What This Means for Lateral Candidates
If you’re considering a move, aligning your expertise with these high-demand practice areas can give you leverage in negotiations. Law firms are competing for talent in these fields, meaning better compensation packages, leadership opportunities, and firm support for laterals who bring the right skills.
If you’re in one of these fields—or considering pivoting into one—now is the time to explore your options.
Explore how Esquire Talent Consultants can streamline your talent acquisition process and connect you with top-tier legal talent.
