Government Attorneys Face a Crowded Legal Job Market—Here’s What to Know

The Washington, D.C. legal job market is seeing a surge in government attorneys exploring private practice opportunities. As law firms manage an influx of applicants, many hiring decisions are taking longer than usual. While opportunities remain, firms are prioritizing high-profile candidates who can generate business.

In a recent Law360 article, Rachel Nonaka, a partner in our Washington, D.C. office, highlighted the challenges facing government attorneys in this competitive landscape:

“Law firms are receiving such a high volume of government applicants that their internal processes are truly slow”

For government attorneys considering a move, this means timing and positioning are more important than ever. A strong network, strategic career planning, and working with an experienced recruiter can help navigate the hiring process effectively.

Despite the slower pace, law firms continue to bring in talent from the public sector, and certain practice areas—including international trade, national security, and regulatory law—remain in high demand.

Read the full article by Alison Knezevich for Law360 here.

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For more insights connect with Rachel Nonaka or reach out to our team at Macrae.