Firm Managing Partner Steven Wall and partner Donny English were quoted in an article for The American Lawyer discussing the rise of “boomerang” lawyers, characterized by those who leave large law firms and later return, sometimes years down the line, highlighting how the legal profession is adapting to a more fluid career market by treating exits not as endings but as potential future opportunities.
Steve attributed Morgan Lewis’s successful track record in welcoming back “boomerangs” to its “vibrant alumni program” and the ways in which the firm keeps relationships intact for outgoing lawyers. One facet of this alumni program is a password-protected portal where alumni can log in and find updates and other relevant information for the firm.
He noted that the firm’s alumni events often include people who are currently at other firms—and “[w]hen they are there, they are not an attorney at ‘Jones & Jones,’ but an alumni of Morgan Lewis.”
Donny, who recently rejoined Morgan Lewis, referenced how the combination of how his exit from the firm was handled and the culture of a place he knew and enjoyed was enough to bring him back.
Donny spoke of how Morgan Lewis was supportive of his decision, and he maintained contact with friends at the firm while also becoming a part of its alumni network. And last year his mentor, Grace Speights, reached out to him to see if he would be interested in returning to the firm.
Says Donny, “Grace recruited me—mentored me while I was there, stayed in touch with me throughout my career progressions—and last spring we had a career conversation. She said Morgan Lewis needed a trial lawyer and asked if I was interested. It’s clear the firm cares about the people they practice with. Not just when they are in the building, but when they leave, supporting them throughout their journey.”
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