This article appeared in Accounting and Financial Planning for Law Firms, an ALM publication delivering analysis and intelligence for Corporate Counsel, Managing Partners, Financial Planning Professionals, and Law Firm Administrators. Visit the website to learn more.

You are a partner in a law firm and you have decided to make a lateral move. You want it to be the right move to a better platform. Where do you start and how do you maximize the likelihood of a successful outcome? The lateral candidate process differs among firms and candidates. But the more you are prepared to answer and ask questions, the greater the likelihood this next move will be an optimal one for you and the firm you are joining. Consider the approach detailed below regarding the research, preparation and vetting activities associated with a lateral partner move.