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Law Firm Remote Attorney Hiring Trends in Law Firms

Remote attorney hiring is divided into two types of jobs: (1) jobs in practice areas that do not require the attorney to be admitted to a specific state bar—and where law firms can hire from a national pool, and (2) jobs in practice areas that require the candidate to be admitted to the bar of a certain state.
 

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• Remote vs. Hybrid vs. In-Office Work: A Comprehensive Guide for Legal Job Seekers and Law Firms
• Emerging Trends in Law Firm Structures: What Legal Employers Need to Know
• Retaining Top Legal Talent: Strategies for Boosting Employee Satisfaction and Loyalty

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1. Law Firm Remote Attorney Jobs that Do Not Require an Attorney to be Admitted in a Specific State

Remote work is increasingly common for attorneys, particularly in practice areas where legal work is governed primarily by federal law rather than state-specific law and a state bar license is not needed to practice remotely.  If you have needs in any of these practice areas, remote attorneys could allow you to deepen you bench of attorneys and get work done that may not be being done, resulting in profitability in practice areas otherwise not fully serviced. You can hire them from any state and have them work remotely.
 

The Top 5 Most Active Practice Areas for Remote Hiring by Law Firms Where a State Bar in the State Where the Job is Are Not Required

1. Intellectual Property Law-This is by far the most active practice area for law firms to hire remote attorneys. Law firms in every state make lateral hires from this practice area consistently.

• Patent Law (governed by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the federal courts)
• Copyright Law (administered by the U.S. Copyright Office and litigated in federal courts)
• Trademark Law (trademarks can be federally registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, although state trademark law also exists)

2. Immigration Law-This is also an enormously popular practice area for law firms to hire remote attorneys in.

• Immigration, naturalization, visas, deportation, asylum, and citizenship are all governed by federal law, particularly under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

3. Bankruptcy Law-There are fewer of these positions, but law firms frequently hire remote attorneys here as well. This work is often cyclical in nature and allows firms to increase their headcount rapidly when they have the work.

• Bankruptcy cases are exclusively handled in federal courts under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.

4. Securities Law-Many smaller markets do not have local talent to draw firm in this practice area, but the work to support it. This is also a popular practice area for remote attorneys, but most firms in larger markets do not need to hire remotely,

• Regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and governed by federal laws such as the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Dodd-Frank Act of 2010, and the Investment Advisors Act of 1940.

5. Environmental Law-Many law firms all over the country that do this work use remote attorneys for the work.

• Regulated primarily by federal statutes such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act, enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

 

Other Practice Areas Where Remote, Out-of-State Hiring Frequently Done and No State Bar Required

1. Banking Law

• The Federal Reserve Act (1913) created the Federal Reserve System to oversee monetary policy, the Bank Holding Company Act (1956) regulates bank holding companies, the National Bank Act governs federally chartered banks, the Dodd-Frank Act established stricter banking regulations, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) encourages banks to meet the credit needs of their communities.

2. Antitrust Law-Less of this work is done outside of markets like Washington, DC, for example, but it can enable law firms to draw from talent if they have work outside of major markets.

• Federal laws like the Sherman Act, Clayton Act, and Federal Trade Commission Act govern monopolies, price-fixing, and competition-related issues.

3. Federal Tax Law

• Governed by the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) and enforced by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

4. ERISA Law

• ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974) is federal law. It governs private-sector employee benefit plans, including pensions, health insurance, and executive compensation. Because ERISA is a federal statute, attorneys practicing in ERISA and executive compensation law generally do not need state-specific bar admission to handle most aspects of their work.

5. Food and Drug Law

• Food and drug law in the United States is primarily governed by federal law, with oversight by various agencies, particularly the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Below are the major federal laws and regulations that govern food and drug law:

6.  Healthcare Law

• Federal healthcare laws establish nationwide standards and regulations, with key agencies and legislation including the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for healthcare coverage, Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) for federal oversight, HIPAA for patient privacy, the False Claims Act for fraud prevention, and the FDA for regulating pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and food safety.

7. Admiralty and Maritime Law

• Cases involving shipping, navigation, and maritime commerce fall under federal jurisdiction.

8. Aviation Law

• Governed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and federal regulations.

9.  Telecommunications

• Telecommunications law in the United States is primarily governed by federal law, but states also have some regulatory authority in certain areas

 

2. Law Firm Remote Attorney Jobs that Require an Attorney to be Admitted in a Specific State to Practice There that Firms Hire Remotely For

For practice areas where attorneys need to be admitted to the state to practice, almost any practice area can be remote.  The attorney only needs to be admitted to the bar—but can work anywhere.
These practice areas in terms of the most demand are:

1. Trusts and Estates: Remote positions are available for attorneys handling estate planning, probate matters, and trust administration. The most popular practice area, by fair, for remote attorneys in different parts of a given state, is trust and estates.  Numerous law firms throughout the country, especially in less populated areas, are interested in hiring remote attorneys to do trust and estates work.
2. Corporate Law: Attorneys specializing in corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and compliance are often hired for remote roles to assist businesses with complex transactions and regulatory adherence.
3. Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Law: With the increasing importance of data protection, there's a growing demand for remote attorneys to advise on compliance with privacy laws and to manage cybersecurity incidents.
4. Employment Law: Remote opportunities are available for attorneys to counsel clients on employment policies, handle disputes, and ensure adherence to labor regulations.
5. Litigation: Various forms of litigation, including civil and commercial disputes, often have remote positions for attorneys skilled in managing cases from inception through resolution.  With virtual court appearances becoming increasingly popular, there has been significant growth here.
6. Real Estate Law: Attorneys in this field are often engaged remotely to manage transactions, leases, and property disputes.

While other areas such as Construction, Education, Energy, Entertainment, Environmental and Land Use, Family Law, Finance, Healthcare, Insurance, and Municipal Law may offer remote opportunities, they appear less frequently in online job postings. The availability of remote positions in these fields can vary based on market demand and the specific needs of employers.
 

Why Hire Remote Attorneys?

Hiring remote attorneys offers numerous benefits, including:
 

• Access to a Nationwide Talent Pool – Find the best legal talent without geographic limitations.
• Cost Savings – Reduce overhead expenses associated with in-house hires.
• Flexibility – Scale your legal team as needed without long-term commitments.
• Expertise in Niche Practice Areas – Gain access to specialized attorneys for complex legal matters.
• Improved Work-Life Balance for Attorneys – Happier attorneys often lead to better performance and job satisfaction, reducing turnover rates.
• Diverse Perspectives and Expertise – Hiring remotely enables firms to build a more diverse legal team, incorporating different viewpoints and experiences that enhance problem-solving and decision-making.
• Faster Hiring Process – Traditional hiring processes often involve weeks or months of negotiations and relocations. Remote hiring enables faster onboarding and immediate contributions from attorneys.

 

Cost-Effectiveness of Remote Attorneys

One of the most significant benefits of hiring remote attorneys is cost savings. Law firms and corporate legal departments can reduce their expenses in several ways:
 

• Lower Office Space Costs – Firms that rely on remote attorneys do not need to maintain large office spaces, reducing real estate expenses.
• Reduced Operational Costs – Fewer in-house employees mean lower costs for office supplies, utilities, and equipment.
• Flexible Compensation Models – Many remote attorneys work on an hourly or project basis, allowing firms to pay only for the work needed rather than maintaining a full-time salary and benefits package.

 

Enhanced Productivity and Efficiency

Many studies have shown that remote workers are more productive than their in-office counterparts. Without daily commutes, office distractions, and rigid schedules, remote attorneys can focus on delivering high-quality legal work efficiently.

Remote work also allows for better time management. Attorneys can work during their most productive hours, providing quicker turnaround times on projects and cases. This increased efficiency leads to cost savings and improved client satisfaction.

 

How Remote Attorneys Improve Business Agility

The legal industry is dynamic, requiring firms and corporations to adapt quickly to regulatory changes, economic shifts, and evolving client needs. Remote attorneys provide businesses with the agility necessary to navigate these challenges effectively. Some key advantages include:
 

• Rapid Response to Legal Issues – Remote attorneys can be onboarded quickly, ensuring that businesses address legal matters without delay.
• Access to Global Expertise – Law firms can engage attorneys with international experience or specific regulatory knowledge relevant to their industry.
• Easier Expansion into New Markets – Businesses looking to expand operations into new states or countries can hire attorneys with jurisdiction-specific knowledge without requiring relocation.

 

Attracting and Retaining Top Legal Talent

Legal professionals are increasingly prioritizing work-life balance and flexibility in their careers. By offering remote positions, firms can attract top-tier attorneys who may not be willing to relocate or commit to traditional office structures. Moreover, firms that embrace remote work demonstrate a forward-thinking approach that enhances their reputation in the industry.

Flexible work arrangements also lead to higher retention rates. Attorneys who have control over their schedules and work environments tend to remain with firms longer, reducing turnover costs and maintaining institutional knowledge within the organization.
 

How We Help You Find the Right Remote Attorney

BCG Attorney Search uses a proprietary matching process to connect firms and businesses with the best legal professionals for their needs. Our process includes:

1. Understanding Your Legal Needs – We assess your requirements to find the right match.
2. Vetting & Screening Candidates – We ensure all remote attorneys meet your qualifications.
3. Seamless Hiring Process – We facilitate smooth onboarding so attorneys can start working immediately.
4. Ongoing Support – We assist firms throughout the hiring process and beyond, ensuring long-term success with remote hires.
 

The Future of Remote Legal Work

As technology continues to advance, remote legal work will become even more efficient and widely accepted. Cloud-based case management systems, secure communication platforms, and digital collaboration tools enable attorneys to work seamlessly from any location. Law firms and businesses that embrace this trend will have a competitive advantage in attracting top talent, reducing costs, and providing superior legal services.
 

Contact Us to Hire a Remote Attorney Today

If you are looking to hire a highly skilled remote attorney, BCG Attorney Search can help. Contact us today to access top legal talent across the country. You can post jobs here: or call our offices at 310-444-0000 to discuss any of your remote and other openings.

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About Harrison Barnes

No legal recruiter in the United States has placed more attorneys at top law firms across every practice area than Harrison Barnes. His unmatched expertise, industry connections, and proven placement strategies have made him the most influential legal career advisor for attorneys seeking success in Big Law, elite boutiques, mid-sized firms, small firms, firms in the largest and smallest markets, and in over 350 separate practice areas.

A Reach Unlike Any Other Legal Recruiter

Most legal recruiters focus only on placing attorneys in large markets or specific practice areas, but Harrison places attorneys at all levels, in all practice areas, and in all locations-from the most prestigious firms in New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., to small and mid-sized firms in rural markets. Every week, he successfully places attorneys not only in high-demand practice areas like corporate and litigation but also in niche and less commonly recruited areas such as:

• Immigration Law
• Workers Compensation
• Insurance
• Family Law
• Trust and Estate
• Municipal law
• And many more...

This breadth of placements is unheard of in the legal recruiting industry and is a testament to his extraordinary ability to connect attorneys with the right firms, regardless of market size or practice area.

Proven Success at All Levels

With over 25 years of experience, Harrison has successfully placed attorneys at over 1,000 law firms, including:

• Top Am Law 100 firms such including Sullivan and Cromwell, and almost every AmLaw 100 and AmLaw 200 law firm.
• Elite boutique firms with specialized practices
• Mid-sized firms looking to expand their practice areas
• Growing firms in small and rural markets

He has also placed hundreds of law firm partners and has worked on firm and practice area mergers, helping law firms strategically grow their teams.

Unmatched Commitment to Attorney Success - The Story of BCG Attorney Search

Harrison Barnes is not just the most effective legal recruiter in the country, he is also the founder of BCG Attorney Search, a recruiting powerhouse that has helped thousands of attorneys transform their careers. His vision for BCG goes beyond just job placement; it is built on a mission to provide attorneys with opportunities they would never have access to otherwise. Unlike traditional recruiting firms, BCG Attorney Search operates as a career partner, not just a placement service. The firm's unparalleled resources, including a team of over 150 employees, enable it to offer customized job searches, direct outreach to firms, and market intelligence that no other legal recruiting service provides. Attorneys working with Harrison and BCG gain access to hidden opportunities, real-time insights on firm hiring trends, and guidance from a team that truly understands the legal market. You can read more about how BCG Attorney Search revolutionizes legal recruiting here: The Story of BCG Attorney Search and What We Do for You.

The Most Trusted Career Advisor for Attorneys

Harrison's legal career insights are the most widely followed in the profession.

• His articles on BCG Search alone are read by over 150,000 attorneys per month, making his guidance the most sought-after in the legal field. Read his latest insights here.
• He has conducted hundreds of hours of career development webinars, available here: Harrison Barnes Webinar Replays.
• His placement success is unmatched-see examples here: Harrison Barnes' Attorney Placements.
• He has created numerous comprehensive career development courses, including BigLaw Breakthrough, designed to help attorneys land positions at elite law firms.

Submit Your Resume to Work with Harrison Barnes

If you are serious about advancing your legal career and want access to the most sought-after law firm opportunities, Harrison Barnes is the most powerful recruiter to have on your side.

Submit your resume today to start working with him: Submit Resume Here

With an unmatched track record of success, a vast team of over 150 dedicated employees, and a reach into every market and practice area, Harrison Barnes is the recruiter who makes career transformations happen and has the talent and resources behind him to make this happen.

A Relentless Commitment to Attorney Success

Unlike most recruiters who work with only a narrow subset of attorneys, Harrison Barnes works with lawyers at all stages of their careers, from junior associates to senior partners, in every practice area imaginable. His placements are not limited to only those with "elite" credentials-he has helped thousands of attorneys, including those who thought it was impossible to move firms, find their next great opportunity.

Harrison's work is backed by a team of over 150 professionals who work around the clock to uncover hidden job opportunities at law firms across the country. His team:

• Finds and creates job openings that aren't publicly listed, giving attorneys access to exclusive opportunities.
• Works closely with candidates to ensure their resumes and applications stand out.
• Provides ongoing guidance and career coaching to help attorneys navigate interviews, negotiations, and transitions successfully.

This level of dedicated support is unmatched in the legal recruiting industry.

A Legal Recruiter Who Changes Lives

Harrison believes that every attorney-no matter their background, law school, or previous experience-has the potential to find success in the right law firm environment. Many attorneys come to him feeling stuck in their careers, underpaid, or unsure of their next steps. Through his unique ability to identify the right opportunities, he helps attorneys transform their careers in ways they never thought possible.

He has worked with:

• Attorneys making below-market salaries who went on to double or triple their earnings at new firms.
• Senior attorneys who believed they were "too experienced" to make a move and found better roles with firms eager for their expertise.
• Attorneys in small or remote markets who assumed they had no options-only to be placed at strong firms they never knew existed.
• Partners looking for a better platform or more autonomy who successfully transitioned to firms where they could grow their practice.

For attorneys who think their options are limited, Harrison Barnes has proven time and time again that opportunities exist-often in places they never expected.

Submit Your Resume Today - Start Your Career Transformation

If you want to explore new career opportunities, Harrison Barnes and BCG Attorney Search are your best resources. Whether you are looking for a BigLaw position, a boutique firm, or a move to a better work environment, Harrison's expertise will help you take control of your future.

Submit Your Resume Here to get started with Harrison Barnes today.

Harrison's reach, experience, and proven results make him the best legal recruiter in the industry. Don't settle for an average recruiter-work with the one who has changed the careers of thousands of attorneys and can do the same for you.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.