3 Trends Shaping Strategic Growth Through Lateral Hiring in Law Firms

3 Trends Shaping Strategic Growth Through Lateral Hiring in Law Firms

In today’s legal market, defined by rising costs, shifting client expectations, and intense competition, lateral hiring is still a key part of how law firms grow. But firms focused on long-term success know it’s about more than just filling seats.

Drawing on insights from Leopard Solutions and SurePoint’s work with mid-size law firms nationwide, here are three trends law firm leaders should understand—and act on—as they refine their approach to lateral hiring.

1. Firms Are Shifting from Reactive to Intentional Hiring

It’s easy to fall into a reactive rhythm: a partner leaves, a client needs niche expertise, or a team’s bandwidth hits a wall—and suddenly it’s time to hire.

But reactive hiring often leads to misalignment, unmet expectations, and costly turnover.

Firms that are growing strategically in 2025 are looking ahead. They’re using data to anticipate future needs—whether that’s expanding into new markets, developing the next generation of leaders, or building out a specific practice area. The goal isn’t just to fill a gap, but to make each hire part of a broader growth plan.

Strategic Takeaway: Don’t just hire for today’s openings. Plan for where your firm wants to grow next.

2. Legal Market Intelligence Is Raising the Bar

The competition for talent hasn’t slowed, and neither has the pressure to hire smart. That’s why more firms are turning to legal market data to sharpen their approach.

SurePoint and Leopard Solutions make it easier to:

• Identify candidates likely to make a move

• Track shifts in firm stability and growth patterns

• Surface internal connections to improve outreach and fit

When integrated with financial and practice management tools, these insights can also help firms connect hiring decisions to profitability, productivity, and long-term value.

Strategic Takeaway: With the right data, your lateral strategy becomes smarter—and far less risky.

3. Retention is Just as Strategic as Recruitment

Every lateral hire is an investment, and the return depends on what happens after they join.

Forward-thinking firms are focused not just on hiring top talent, but on creating an environment where that talent stays, thrives, and grows with the firm. That means:

• Providing clear advancement paths and transparency around expectations

• Building systems that reduce administrative drag and support flexible work

• Using technology that makes it easier to collaborate, bill, and deliver great service

In mid-size firms, especially, attorneys want to make an impact. They want to be seen, supported, and given space to succeed.

Strategic Takeaway: Sustainable growth doesn’t end with a hire. Set people up to succeed—and stay.

Accelerate Your Firm’s Growth Strategy

Lateral hiring isn’t just a talent tactic—it’s a growth lever. When hiring is aligned with your firm’s goals and backed by the right insights and systems, every decision becomes more strategic and more impactful. For additional insights, download our white paper: Unlocking Success in Lateral Partner Hiring.

And if you're ready to learn more now, fill out the form to connect with an expert. Let's explore how SurePoint can support your firm's growth strategy.