Government Lawyers Are Flooding the Private Sector - Here’s What It Means for Hiring

Washington, D.C., has always been a hub for legal talent, but the current wave of government lawyers seeking private practice opportunities is unlike anything we’ve seen before. As Bloomberg Law recently reported, law firms are seeing an influx of resumes from attorneys at agencies like the FTC, CFPB, and IRS, as many professionals face job insecurity or strategic career shifts.

In the article, Justine Donahue, partner in our Washington, D.C. office, highlights the challenges of this unique moment:

“Supply is already outweighing demand.”

With so many skilled attorneys entering the market at once, standing out is key. Law firms are being highly selective, prioritizing candidates with in-demand expertise, strong networks, and a strategic approach to making a move.

For lawyers considering a transition from government to private practice, working with a trusted recruiter can provide the insight and connections needed to navigate this competitive landscape.

Read the full article by Tatyana Monnay for Bloomberg Law here.

For more insights connect with Justine Donahue or reach out to our team at Macrae.