As a lateral who has made the move from Australia to the US twice, I’d like to share my list of top 7 things that I think every Aussie lawyer should know about a move to the US.
I remember boarding my flight to JFK like it was yesterday. An offer in hand to join the biggest and best funds teams in the world. It was my chance to play the grand final in the big league.
Leaving Australia during the pandemic wasn’t an easy task; the piles of government paperwork, the strategic navigating of borders, the 30 hour flight via Melbourne then Hong Kong, the endless covid testing - it was arduous. Thankfully this is mostly behind us.
Looking back, the opportunity that lay ahead of me was life changing. The opportunity to work in the Big Apple is surreal yet humbling and if you’re ready to have your shot in the big league, this is the place to do it.
So here's what you need to know:
1. Start the process now
Things don’t happen overnight. If you’re planning a move within the next 6-12 months, start speaking to a recruiter as soon as possible (see point 7).
The interview process itself can take up to a month. Throw in the time it takes to update your CV, prepare for interviews, clear conflict checks, obtain a Visa (see point 4), see out your notice period and travel to New York - the months can fly by.
2. The US loves you
The questions I’m most often asked are about the transition from practicing in Australia (or Canada) to the US and whether the partners are aware of the experience gained in those jurisdictions versus US associates. My answer to these questions is simple: the US loves you.
Yes, there will be a learning curve and you will also be given much more responsibility here as the deals are bigger and move at a much faster pace. However, the work is first class and your CV will be shining - remember, you're in the big league now. Which leads me to point 3...
3. Now is not the time for diffidence
Many Aussies have made the move before you and many are now successful partners hiring other Aussies to follow in their footsteps (it’s not just Sydney and Melbourne lawyers either - Brisbane and Perth, we’ve got you covered).
Aussies are known for their good training and positive attitude and we're really likable! Now is not the time to second guess your skills or training - so back yourself.
4. Visas
For years, Aussies have taken the well-trodden 'Kangaroo Route' to London because it was easy, unaware that there’s a special skill E-3 Visa available to Aussies right here in the US. It’s seamless. So get on it!
While the US consulates in Australia continue to experience delays in appointment times, we’re seeing particularly good immigration lawyers navigating around this. For example, I was recently able to obtain my third US Visa in Canada – thanks Cammisa Markel! P.S. Remind me to tell you about coming face to face with some unruly wildlife while there.
5. The bar exam
Yes, you will need to sit the relevant state bar exam and yes, you will do well (see point 3 – back yourself)!
Firms invest in you and want to see you succeed. Generally they offer you paid study leave and reimburse you for a bar preparation course for a sitting in February or July each year.
To be eligible to sit the bar, you will need to have your university transcript assessed up to 6 months before you apply to sit the exam. Get in touch with me about how we can get this process started as soon as possible.
6. Relocation & housing
As part of your relocation, firms will fly you out and put you up in corporate accommodation for a month until you find your own place. Depending on the firm, they might also assist with making arrangements to sell or lease your current property back home and put you in touch with a broker. 'StreetEasy' will be your 'Realestate.com.au' for all things rental and there are some great Facebook groups if you’re looking to sublet.
I’m always happy to offer my thoughts on good neighborhoods to live and play.
7. Partner with a good recruiter
Get good help, it’s as easy as that. Talk to friends, colleagues, family and people who have walked in your shoes before. Partnering up with a good recruiter who knows what is market, what bonuses you should be negotiating and when you should be saying ‘no’ will set you up for success.
A good recruiter won’t push you into any role, they’ll find the roles that fit with your goals, guide you through the process and coach you to put your best foot forward during the interview process.
Having been on both sides of the fence of law and recruitment, I understand the motivations and hesitations lawyers face when considering a lateral move, particularly internationally.
There you have it, I hope this helps!
Get in touch by phone, email or DM so I can help you get on that plane sooner -stefano.barbagallo@sonderconsultants.com
“One can’t paint New York as it is, but rather as it is felt.” – Georgia O’Keefe
