#69: Stuck at Your Law Firm? How to Stay Strategic Until You Can Move

In today’s episode, I talk about something many lawyers experience but rarely discuss: what to do when you’re ready to leave your law firm, but you haven’t yet found the right opportunity. Maybe the market’s slow. Maybe your book isn’t portable. Or maybe nothing else feels like the right fit yet. Regardless, being stuck in limbo is frustrating—and it can quickly tank your motivation, reputation, and future options if you’re not intentional.

I share what to focus on now, even if you’re in survival mode, to preserve your professional standing and prepare for your next move. From managing your mindset to making sure your materials are airtight, I break down how to keep moving forward while you're still inside a firm that no longer feels right. You’ll hear actionable steps you can take to maintain credibility, boost visibility, build momentum, and avoid some costly mistakes.

At a Glance: 

00:00 Introduction to Big Law Life and today’s episode
01:20 Feeling stuck when lateral options are limited
02:01 Why quiet quitting can backfire—and how to stay visible
02:44 How to maintain professionalism even when motivation dips
03:23 Risks of falling into the complaints trap
04:10 Why it's better to leave on your terms—not the firm’s
04:47 Leveraging downtime to prep your pitch to future firms
05:09 Specific ways to sharpen legal knowledge and market positioning
06:11 How tech innovation can become a strategic edge
06:34 Start tracking feedback, wins, and achievements now
07:29 Prepping for a move by activating your network
08:01 Tips for handling outreach and keeping conversations discreet
09:20 Managing recruiters and setting clear expectations
10:31 Resume, firm bio, and LinkedIn cleanup essentials
11:53 Finding meaning and control when your current work feels flat
12:20 Using pro bono and internal initiatives to add value and visibility
13:00 Thought leadership and LinkedIn as personal branding tools
13:48 How outside interests can help with burnout and breakthroughs
14:41 Staying ready for the next wave—and why mindset matters

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Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting?

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www.lauraterrell.com 

[e-mail]  

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Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast