In-House Illusions: Why the Grass Isn't Always Greener

Attorneys, fresh-faced and well-seasoned alike, often harbour dreams of escaping the gruelling grind of law firm life. Their sanctuary? The promised land of in-house positions. However, the alluring sirens of shorter hours and seemingly increased autonomy can be deceptive.

The purpose of this article is not to discourage you from considering an in-house role. Rather, it is to challenge the stereotype of in-house positions as a universally perfect solution for all lawyers. It's time to dispel the illusions and shine a light on the realities of in-house life.

Illusion #1: Shorter Hours, Easier Life

The first in-house illusion is that the hours are consistently shorter and easier. As a former Supreme Court Justice Benjamin N. Cardozo put it, "The great ideals of liberty and equality are preserved against the assaults of opportunism, the expediency of the passing hour, the erosion of small encroachments, the scorn and derision of those who have no patience with general principles."

Indeed, shorter hours might hold true, to an extent. However, a critical dimension often overlooked is the unpredictability of those hours. As an in-house attorney, you become an integral part of the business, which could mean attending to crises at any given moment. This unpredictability can sometimes make work-life balance even more challenging to achieve.

Illusion #2: Autonomy And Control

The second illusion revolves around the level of control and autonomy. While in-house attorneys have direct business involvement, this does not always translate into greater autonomy. Just like Clarence Darrow said, "You can only protect your liberties in this world by protecting the other man's freedom." Similarly, you can only control your work environment by understanding the broader context of the organization.

The demands of internal stakeholders and the acute nature of business needs can often result in a heightened pressure to deliver, with less control over timelines than one might expect.

Illusion #3: The 'Business' Role

The third illusion is the perception of a more "business" role. Many lawyers crave the chance to be closer to the business side, and indeed, an in-house role will provide that opportunity. However, this requires an ability to navigate complex business landscapes while still maintaining legal rigor. As the legendary lawyer Louis Nizer once said, "A man who works with his hands is a labourer; a man who works with his hands and his brain is a craftsman; but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist."

The art of balancing business acumen with legal expertise is a fundamental challenge of the in-house role. The pressures from the business to be more "commercial" can sometimes clash with your legal instincts.

Practical Tips

While these illusions may seem daunting, they are not insurmountable. Here are some practical tips to thrive in-house:

• Understand the business and align with its vision
• Be adaptable and prepared for unpredictable schedules
• Maintain legal rigor in the face of commercial pressures
• Exercise patience in influencing business decisions

Make the Right Move: Informed Decisions Over Illusions

At this point, you might be questioning your dream of moving in-house. But remember, every role has its own challenges, and with these come unique rewards. As John F. Kennedy said, "Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future."

An in-house role can offer you the chance to be closer to the business, engage in strategic decisions, and immerse yourself in an industry. Just remember to make this move based on informed decisions rather than illusions of an easier life.

As a seasoned legal recruiter, my intent isn't to discourage but to ensure you are fully aware of what you're signing up for. It's better to be prepared than surprised.

Need Advice?

If you are considering a move, in-house or otherwise, and need some professional advice, feel free to get in touch with me at [email protected]. In a world fraught with illusions, let's make informed decisions together.

For more insightful articles that reveal truths about the legal profession not typically shared online, sign up for my newsletter at www.tattonsheikh.com. Let's embark on this journey of professional growth and development together.

Let's shatter illusions, and build realities based on truth, understanding, and wisdom. The grass might not always be greener on the other side, but it could be just the shade you're looking for.