top of page

27 results found with an empty search

  • Matt Schwartz | Partner | Washington, DC Legal Recruiter | Garrison Search

    Matt Schwartz is appreciated by candidates and employers alike – as the recruiter who honors candidates and clients by taking them seriously. Matt Schwartz Partner 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 mschwartz@g-s.com 202.559.0468 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME If you’re scanning my bio, it means you are wondering if a career change is right for you – I can help you think through that. You might be restless where you are, yet you aren’t certain of the options – are you wondering if they’re better than what you already have? Associates reach out to me whether they want to narrow their focus or see just how broad their professional horizon might be. What I can guarantee for you is that I’ll see your full range of options, align that with your 5-10-year career goals and help you become the best candidate you can possibly be. OVERVIEW Regarded as among the foremost experts in lateral associate placement, Matt Schwartz is appreciated by candidates and employers alike – as the recruiter who honors candidates and clients by taking them seriously. Inside the first few minutes of conversation, they feel the difference in depth, intellect, proven track record, transparency and trust from other recruiter discussions they may have had. These qualities are evident in his success placing attorneys across a wide variety of industries and practice areas for boutiques, national and global law firms. Law schools don’t typically provide students with an education in managing their careers, navigating law firm life, or even finding their perfect fit within one of the most diverse and complex of occupations. Matt knows that his role is to help guide lawyers in their first years of practice so they can find their place in the profession. Whether helping an associate move from one firm to another for any of a myriad of reasons or helping a government lawyer transition to private practice, Matt’s second-to-none knowledge of the legal opportunities provides a distinct advantage to candidates. If it’s your first move, second or third, Matt’s process is tailored to meet you where you are – he will diligently and actively guide you until you find the right position, even if that means staying where you are. Count on Matt understanding how your motivations may have changed as your career has progressed and knowing how to help you take a clear look at the current market, craft the most compelling story of your capabilities and write cover letters that help employers quickly connect with who you are and all that you have to offer. Winning interviews combine both art and science, and Matt will rigorously prepare you. He ensures that his mock interview questions are specifically tailored to the opportunity and even more challenging than the actual ones you will be asked. Matt knows the questions and the answers that will move candidates ahead. Prior to becoming a recruiter, Matt served as a transactional associate at one AmLaw 20 firm and a litigation associate at another DC-based national firm. The competitiveness and his keen legal training at these firms, plus his own career transitions, are the foundation for the unique empathy he brings to these relationships. Because Matt is so successful on the candidate side, he is also sought after by employers who are struggling to find enough associates to meet their high standards and be a good cultural fit. Whether a law firm or legal department, they know that finding their perfect match in a new hire is as important to Matt as it is to them. This is why many of the most revered law firms in the country know Matt’s reputation and trust him completely. An important addition to his work placing attorneys, Matt is invited by Harvard and Stanford to provide real-world career coaching to their law students. He often speaks at other major law schools, such as Michigan, George Washington, Georgetown, Penn and Northwestern, and provides his deep insight into the DC legal market. CREDENTIALS AND PAST EXPERIENCE Prior to becoming a legal recruiter, Matt was a transactional associate at Hogan & Hartson (now Hogan Lovells); before that, he was a litigation associate at Howrey. His legal training and previous employment in the field, his own experience transitioning from litigation to corporate law, and his established expertise recruiting in DC enable Matt to offer candidates as well as clients sound counsel on professional tracks and transitions. Matt is a cum laude graduate of Georgetown University Law Center with an undergraduate degree from Brown University. REPRESENTATIVE PLACEMENTS Matt has placed at least 200 associates and counsels in the DC market at large firms and prestigious boutiques, as well as placing several people in-house. Following are selected examples: Placed a tech transactional associate from the Washington, DC office of an AmLaw 25 firm in the Tech Transactions practice of an AmLaw 50 firm's Washington, DC office. Placed an FCC attorney focusing on wireline service in the Communications practice group of a large, extremely prestigious Washington, DC-based international law firm. Placed a Baltimore AUSA and former AmLaw 50 investigations associate in a Chambers-rated securities enforcement boutique. Placed a policyholder insurance associate from a top-tier international law firm in an Insurance group of a top-tier Washington, DC-based international law firm. Placed a CFIUS associate from the Washington DC office of a large international firm in the International Trade group of the Washington, DC office of an AmLaw 50 firm. Placed a senior corporate (M&A/VC) associate from the Washington, DC office of an AmLaw 50 international law firm in the Washington, DC Corporate practice of an AmLaw 50 national law firm. Placed an FDA associate at the Washington, DC office of a boutique based in New York City in the Washington, DC FDA practice of a top-tier international law firm. Placed a healthcare associate from a top-tier Washington, DC healthcare boutique in the FDA/Healthcare group of a prestigious international law firm's Washington, DC office. Placed a project finance associate from the Washington, DC office of an AmLaw 25 firm in the Project Finance group (Washington, DC office) of an international AmLaw 50 firm based in San Francisco, CA. Placed an associate from a Washington, DC environmental boutique in the Washington, DC-based Environmental group of an AmLaw 100 international firm based in Texas. Placed a tax transactional associate from the Washington, DC office of an AmLaw 25 international law firm in a Transactional Tax practice of a highly prestigious international law firm based in Los Angeles, CA. Placed an associate from the Washington, DC office of a national firm based in Milwaukee, WI in a Washington, DC energy regulatory boutique. Placed an in-house counsel, specializing in corporate governance at one of the country's largest bank holding companies located in Tysons Corner, VA, in a Corporate Governance practice of the Washington, DC office of a premier international law firm based in Los Angeles, CA. Placed a life sciences transactional associate in the Washington, DC office of an AmLaw 100 firm in the Tech Transactions/Life Sciences Transactional group of a prestigious international law firm based in Washington, DC. Placed a Federal District Court Clerk and former associate with the DC Office of a Top-Tier New York-based law firm in an elite Washington, DC-based litigation boutique. Placed a litigation associate from the DC Office of an international law firm based in Chicago in a Washington, DC litigation boutique. Placed a litigation associate from an AmLaw 50 firm in the Washington, DC office of a New York City-based litigation boutique. Placed a labor & employment associate from the Washington, DC office of a Philadelphia-based firm in a Labor & Employment Transactional practice at the Washington, DC office of an AmLaw 25 firm. Placed a mid-level government contracts associate from a regional firm in a Northern Virginia office of an international law firm. Placed an associate from a Washington, DC healthcare boutique firm in a premier Washington, DC FDA boutique. Placed a patent (life sciences) litigation associate from a New York City-based intellectual property boutique in a leading intellectual property boutique. TESTIMONIALS “There are typical legal recruiters, and then there’s Matt Schwartz. I have worked with Matt on two searches, and he stands out for his competence, professionalism, and integrity. Some recruiters will push you into the easiest position, but Matt is selective and prudent. Matt not only identified the right positions, but he also identified the wrong positions. Matt advised me in preparing materials and provided smart and candid feedback that substantially contributed to the quality of my application. It’s clear that Matt invests in every relationship, which means he’s looking out for the long-term satisfaction of every party and not just his own immediate financial interests. This has been apparent to me from the start, including when Matt helped me with an application for which he could not receive a commission. Matt is a rare individual, and I highly recommend him.” Insurance Coverage Associate, AmLaw 25 Firm “If you’re looking for a position in DC you need to call Matt. Matt makes no promises, and will tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. Matt has strong connections with the biggest and best law firms in DC; if he submits you, it’s highly likely you will be interviewed and he helps you prepare for that as well. There are so many recruiters that it’s really hard to differentiate between them. Garrison and Sisson is the gold standard in DC. Matt is different because he doesn’t hound you and he is honest about the market and your prospects from the start. On top of all these great attributes, Matt is genuinely just a good guy, always pleasant to speak with, and funny as hell. Hopefully I won’t be moving again for a long time, but if I decide to, he’s my first and last call as far as recruiters go.” Corporate Associate, AmLaw 25 Firm “It was an absolute pleasure to work with Matt during my lateral search. He is an expert on the legal market and the different firms, and took the time to get to know me personally, as well as understand my short- and long-term goals in order to help guide me towards the right firms. Matt helped fine-tune my application materials and held a mock interview to ensure I was fully prepared. Throughout the interview and offer process he was always available and responsive when I had questions, and proved an invaluable source of information and feedback. I ended up at the perfect firm, and I couldn’t have done it without Matt’s assistance. Lateraling can be a time-consuming and stressful process, but he made it painless and enjoyable. I highly recommend Matt to anyone considering a lateral move.” Corporate Associate, Top Five DC Firm "Matt has generously made time to speak to our students about the Washington D.C. legal market for years now and has become an invaluable resource to our students who are considering entering the DC market. His presentations are well-informed, insightful, and chock full of so much useful information that one of our students recently reported watching the video recording of it twice just to make sure they didn't miss anything! Not only does Matt provide excellent insight into the unique aspects of the legal market in DC, but he also has spot-on advice to students for how to effectively approach their job search and how to best prepare themselves to maximize their success. I consider his program to be required viewing for any student who is even considering working in DC, and I have also recommended him without hesitation to alums who are seeking to lateral into the DC market." Northwestern Pritzker School of Law “Matt was an absolute pleasure to work with, and he did a lot more than merely pass my resume along to his contacts (as two other recruiters had done). His approach was individualized to the firm for which he was seeking placement and tailored to my credentials and needs. Matt gave constructive feedback at every stage of the process. For example, he reviewed my resume carefully and suggested a number of helpful changes. He also set aside a full hour to do a mock interview and helped me hone my interview skills. Matt was available and responsive during the in-between times to answer any and all questions that I had, which I greatly appreciated. Simply put, Matt is a professional. I would (and already have) happily recommend Matt to others.” White Collar Litigation Associate, Top Five DC Firm “Working with Matt was an absolute pleasure. Shortly after the birth of my first child, as a midlevel associate in the BigLaw space in the NY metro area, I started looking for a better job fit for my family and my future ambitions. I was fortunate enough to connect with Matt, who told me about a unique position in the DC area that could be a long term fit for the career pivot I was looking to make. He encouraged me to apply for the position, vouched for the (former BigLaw) attorneys at the small firm I would be interviewing at, and guided me through the interview and offer process. It’s not hyperbole to say that the placement was a life changing one for me and my family. It was certainly a risk when I moved with my wife and 10 month old from a 400 person firm in the NY metro area to a 3 person firm in the Beltway. Six and a half years later, my now 7 and a half year old is entering 2nd grade and is the proud older sister of a 5 yr old sister and a 3 year old sister, both of whom were born in the DC area. The job ended up being a great fit, my family purchased a wonderful home in Bethesda in 2018 and I was elevated to partner as of January 1, 2022. We love the community and it has proven to be a wonderful place to raise a family. I’m home every night at 6PM to put the kids to bed and there are no midnight emails or calls from obnoxious colleagues or nasty clients. The clients are generally wonderful. All of this is possible because I took a chance on a unique opportunity in 2016 and because I trusted Matt when he told me what great potential existed here. My colleagues have been as nice and genuine as Matt said they were and despite our age differences they’ve become friends in addition to colleagues. Matt helped me find a place that has been personally and professionally rewarding for myself and beneficial for my family. I could not recommend him more highly.” Healthcare Associate, Healthcare Boutique “After meeting with so many recruiters and feeling pressured to consider firms that weren’t good fits, finding Matt was a breath of fresh air. Matt’s connections in the industry are genuine, and his recommendations were tailored to my needs. He took the time to prepare me for each step of the process and offered concrete, actionable feedback. Thanks to Matt, I ended up in a group that is a great fit and have sent several colleagues his way since then, each of whom experienced the same personalized approach and successful placements.” Corporate Associate, AmLaw 15 Firm “Matt is the best. I worked with a couple recruiters prior to Matt. What a difference. First, there’s no pressure, and he works with you to identify your goals and develop a plan to achieve them. Equally important, he knows his stuff inside and out. A rock through the lateralling process. I felt he worked hard for me and went the extra mile during writing sample revising, mock interviewing, and post-interview negotiations. I have recommended him to all of my friends that express interest in lateralling. Such a pleasure to work with, and I really appreciated how genuinely happy he was for me when I got the offer at my top-choice firm.” (“V&E has been great so far. Zero regrets.”) Environmental & Natural Resources Associate, AmLaw 75 Firm “I originally started my job search with a different recruiter. The search turned out to be fruitless, and the previous recruiter made to feel like a failure for not getting any responses. A friend referred me to Matt, and it was the best decision I made. Matt and I had an initial “getting to know you” conversation so he could understand the motivations for my job search and what I was looking for in my career. He was honest, never condescending or abrasive, and gave constructive feedback – even recommending that I get an additional credential, which ended up helping me get my offer. With my new certification, Matt helped me submit my material, and within three weeks I got an offer. From application date to offer, Matt was helpful and meticulous. He prepared me by setting up mock interviews with me, by giving me detailed background of the practice group and the firm, and keeping record of any areas of improvement I may need in the future. Even during the offer and decision stage, when I was anxious about hearing back, Matt was reassuring, so that I felt comfortable with every decision and every step of the recruitment process. He made sure to not only help me with obtaining my new job, but also protect my existing job during the search, and ensuring confidentiality so my relationship with my employer was not at risk. Finally, Matt proved to be a great liaison between employer and candidate. Employers give candidates vetted and prepared by Matt a lot of credence.” Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Associate, AmLaw 200 Firm INSIGHTS AND SPEAKING OUTSIDE THE OFFICE Matt freely shares with law schools and law students what he’s learned through many years of legal recruiting. He is also interviewed by the legal media for his take on the current legal employment landscape. Stanford University Law School and Harvard University Law School Counseling 2nd year law students about on-campus interviews (OCIs) for Washington DC law firm positions Meeting with the law school’s career services team to update them on the DC legal market Regular speaker: Michigan, Georgetown, Stanford, Pennsylvania, Northwestern, George Mason and George Washington Law Schools about the DC legal market Mock interviewing practice for nonprofits: Seeking Employment, Equality and Community for People with Developmental Disabilities (SEEC) So Others Might Eat (SOME) Presenter on the legal marketplace: Washington Area Legal Recruitment Administrators Association (WALRAA) The National Association for Law Placement (NALP) “Cracking the DC Legal Market,” University of Pennsylvania Law School, April 2014 “’Hot’ Practice Areas and Job Search Tips,” George Mason University School of Law, March 2014 I’m an avid sports fan, especially supporting the Washington Nationals and the Maryland Terrapins. My love of sports led me at an early age to become a sports memorabilia collector, beginning with baseball cards. Today, my dad and I attend collector shows together and buy and sell our best finds. I also make a study of personal finance and have given talks to various groups on the subject, including single moms attending school and trying to effectively juggle work, kids, school and their finances. And finally, I do love live musical theater and a late, after-theater supper somewhere I can indulge in my favorite dish: Maryland steamed crabs. What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Credentials and Past Experience Representative Placements Testimonials Insights and Speaking Outside the Office

  • Amy K. Savage | Washington, DC Legal Recruiter | Garrison Search

    With 20+ years in the DC legal market, Amy knows the legal market’s players and process — and her contacts benefit from her reputation as a Washington insider. She leverages the expertise and connections she has developed over two decades to help lawyers and legal employers find what they are looking for. Amy understands which attorneys are likely to make a successful move, how to launch an effective search, which practice areas are most in demand, and how that plays into your approach. Amy K. Savage Partner 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 asavage@g-s.com 202.684.3090 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME I care about the people who trust me with their searches, which is why I take a personalized approach to lateral moves. From initial conversations and market research, to crafting compelling pitches and preparing you for interviews, I am actively involved in tailoring your search at every stage. When it comes time to negotiate final terms, my compensation expertise will give you an advantage. Beyond the search, I am invested in your success and have even introduced firms and candidates to potential clients and referral sources. OVERVIEW With 20+ years in the DC legal market, Amy knows the legal market’s players and process — and her contacts benefit from her reputation as a Washington insider. She leverages the expertise and connections she has developed over two decades to help lawyers and legal employers find what they are looking for. Amy understands which attorneys are likely to make a successful move, how to launch an effective search, which practice areas are most in demand, and how that plays into your approach. Working with candidates Contrary to what many will say, all firms are not alike - each platform differs in what it has to offer. The best firm for someone else is not necessarily the best for you and your clients. Amy helps find the strongest platform for you with an initial, exploratory conversation about you, your practice, your clients, your goals, and other key factors like rates, conflicts, and the presence of other complementary practice areas. Amy will then gather market intelligence and present options that align with your goals and background. Amy knows which firms are interested in hiring in specific practice areas and she has access to key decision makers; she will help you navigate the process, simplify the recruiting process, save you time, ensure a more effective search, and help you secure a better result than you can on your own. In addition to working with current law firm partners, Amy also works with Senate-confirmed and other high-level government attorneys. Those candidates face issues those already in private practice do not – how to make a business case without immediately portable business, with whom to speak about recusals, how to address limitations on appearances and compensation after departure, and so much more. Government attorneys can rely on Amy’s expertise to help them navigate those and other questions. More generally, Amy helps senior lawyers and groups advance their careers by making strategic lateral moves to the right firms at the right time. Her success stems in part from her unique ability to align an attorney's skills, aspirations, and (potential or existing) client base with the right platform. Working with employers Amy is widely regarded as one of the most skilled and knowledgeable legal recruiters in the region. She has worked with dozens of law firms to enhance their DC presence and build out both emerging and well-established practices. Hiring teams reach out to Amy because she is effective. She explores the driving forces behind the searches (such as growth, succession, replacement, client demand), as well as key factors that need to be considered to ensure a strong fit. She then uses that information to craft an approach that helps bring the right candidates to the platform. She ensures that the first, lasting impression the candidate has of the firm is accurate and engaging. As stated by an AmLaw 15 firm: “[Amy] knows exactly what we are looking for and never fails to provide top-notch candidates.” CREDENTIALS Prior to joining Garrison, Amy served as the National Chair of the Government Regulatory & Enforcement Group of a large attorney recruiting agency. She graduated with honors from Georgetown University Law Center in 2000, and later moved from practicing law to legal recruiting, bringing experience and insight gleaned from her years at law firms to her work with candidates and clients. Now a recognized expert on legal career issues, Amy has spoken about the DC legal market to numerous law schools (including Yale, Harvard, UVA, Columbia, and Georgetown), presented at key professional associations like NALP and WALRAA, and is relied upon for her thought leadership by the legal press (including ALM, Bloomberg, Law360, and Above the Law). She has also served as an expert witness in federal court on matters related to attorney compensation – experience that makes her uniquely qualified to negotiate on behalf of her candidates. REPRESENTATIVE PLACEMENTS The high-profile candidates with whom Amy has worked include Chambers-Ranked partners, team chairs, elected officials, Senate-confirmed officials, U.S. Attorneys, and senior attorneys from EPA, FERC, DOJ, and other agencies. Amy has negotiated offers for them from a range of firms, from the most prestigious and visible practices in the United States to smaller boutiques. TESTIMONIALS “When it came time for me to think about returning to private practice after over two years as a senior political appointee [], I called only one recruiter: Amy. Her knowledge of the legal market for laterals coming out of government was encyclopedic. She excelled at getting me very quickly in front of the senior leadership of a select number of firms of the highest caliber. And her advice on structuring a business plan, preparing for interviews, and compensation was indispensable. I recommend Amy wholeheartedly and without reservation.” Chambers-Ranked Partner “Amy is the recruiter law firms turn to for their most critical searches because she genuinely cares about her clients. Her deep expertise and strong relationships make her a trusted and successful partner.” Firmwide Director of Partner Recruiting, AmLaw Firm “Amy’s expertise with attorney compensation structures combined with her market knowledge proved to be a winning formula, and she secured multiple offers for me, with highly favorable terms.” Chambers-Ranked Partner “Amy is an exceptional legal recruiter with uncanny insight into the DC legal market, particularly for individuals leaving government. She deploys that insight to her clients in order to maximize the probability that the candidates with whom she works enter new positions that are long-term and productive fits. Amy also works with clients to develop a strong plan that leverages the strengths that her clients bring to employer to ensure that the offers received are the best possible under the market conditions….” Former AUSA turned General Counsel “[Amy] listened to the practices I wanted to focus on, helped me target my search, and then pointed me towards some wonderful opportunities that I wouldn't have known about otherwise. She helped me secure an interview within weeks of when we started working together and I accepted an offer shortly thereafter. Throughout, she quickly gathered information for me and responded to all of my questions, ensuring that I understood where things stood in the firm's decision-making process and had all the information I needed to decide how to respond to the offer.” NGO fellow who landed a position in a highly specialized legal practice “Amy was retained by [a law firm] to help find someone with my skillset to augment its practice … While she was a great advocate for the firm, she also gave me sound advice and insight that helped me make the selection that made the most sense for me. Thanks to Amy I've found a new professional home.” Agency General Counsel, who accepted position as a practice group chair MEDIA, WRITING, AND SPEAKING Amy is a trusted speaker and author on lateral attorney issues. Frequently cited by national publications for her expertise in attorney hiring, she has also presented lectures for top-ranked law schools (including Yale and Harvard), given presentations for the nation’s leading legal placement associations (NALP and WALRAA), and has written articles for The Legal Times, AboveTheLaw, and other publications. Recent Articles (as industry commentator) "Former DOJ Civil Rights Lawyers Flooding D.C. Litigation Talent Market ," The American Lawyer (June 5, 2025) "The 2025 NLJ 500: After Head Count Growth Exploded Last Year, Law Firms Pull in the Reins ," Law.com (June 5, 2025) "What's Life Like For a Nonequity Partner? From Duties to Duration to Tax Status, the Answer Is Complicated, " The American Lawyer (May 6, 2025) "Cut a Deal or File a Suit? Every Big Law Response to Trump Scrutiny Is a Blueprint, " The American Lawyer (March 20, 2025) "BigLaw Hiring From Gov't Up As Trump Slashes Agencies ," Law360 (March 17, 2025) "How Gov't Attys Can Prepare For A Private Sector Job Search ," Law360 (February 19, 2025) "Government Attys Crowd Legal Job Market Amid Trump Cuts ," Law360 (February 14, 2025) "Eight-Figure Outliers Aside, These Lateral Candidates Face a 'Buyer's Market' in Big Law, " The American Lawyer (February 13, 2025) "‘High Demand’: Former Trump Admin Lawyers Leverage Connections for Big Law Work, Job ," National Law Journal (January 29, 2025). "Law Students Scramble As Federal Gov't Yanks Job Offers, " Law360 (January 24, 2025). "Government Attorneys Face Reassignment, Rescinded Job Offers in First Days of Trump Administration ," National Law Journal (January 24, 2025). "Weil Saw 20 People Leave in Partners' Lateral Move to Paul Weiss ," The American Lawyer (January 17, 2025) "As Bonus Pools Expand, Challenges Grow in Partner Compensation, " The American Lawyer (January 13, 2025) "Biggest DC Legal Industry News From 2024 ," Law360 (December 20, 2024) "Government Attorneys Are Flooding the Job Market, But Is There Room in Big Law? " National Law Journal (December 18, 2024) "Congressional Inquiry Practices To Stay Hot With GOP Sweep ," Law360 (November 26, 2024) "'There Is No Time to Waste': Matt Gaetz Withdraws From AG Nomination ," National Law Journal (November 21, 2024) "From ‘Deep Sadness’ to Little Concern, Gaetz’s Nomination Draws Sharp Reaction From Lawyers ," National Law Journal (November 20, 2024) “After Trump’s Win, DC Recruiters See Surge In Gov’t Atty Calls ,” Law360 (November 12, 2024) “Trump's Return to the White House: The Legal Industry Reacts ,” Law.com (November 6, 2024) “From Guaranteed Comp to Ethics Screens, How Big Law Navigates the Revolving Door ,” National Law Journal (October 29, 2024) “Bloomberg Law Reports on McGuireWoods ’ New Partner Hires in Washington, D.C.,” McGuireWoods (October 29, 2024) “Judicial Notice (10.20.24): Blast Off ,” Original Jurisdiction (October 20, 2024) “Legal Recruiter Amy Savage Joins Garrison as Lateral Gov't Moves Stay Busy ,” National Law Journal (October 16, 2024) “Veteran DC Recruiter Joins Garrison From Lateral Link ,” Law360 (October 16, 2024) “McGuireWoods Adds DC Partners as Election Spurs Government Exits ,” Bloomberg Law (October 9, 2024) “The Prosecutors Behind Hunter Biden's Conviction ,” National Law Journal (June 13, 2024) “Biden Antitrust Crackdown Is Boon for Law Firm Competition Work ,” Bloomberg Law (May 10, 2024) “In Big Law Partner Hiring, Business Plans Become 'Litmus Test' For Government Hires ,” National Law Journal (April 9, 2024) “Government Lawyers, Particularly at DOJ, Are 'Flooding' the Job Market ,” National Law Journal (April 3, 2024) Media, Writing, and Speaking Outside the Office What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Credentials Representative Placements Testimonials OUTSIDE THE OFFICE My husband (my college debate partner) and I have lived in the DMV for almost 30 years. We enjoy exploring Old Town Alexandria with our two pups. Virginia has always been home, but I love visiting our children in California, racing to our favorite Formula 1 events, and taking road trips to spring training for the Washington Nationals. Let’s go Nats!

  • Tiffany Manukure | Associate and In-House Practice Manager | Garrison Search

    Tiffany Manukure supports Garrison’s Associate and In-House teams. Among her many responsibilities, she assists with researching and identifying potentially suitable candidates for searches, helping to research the market for law firm associates, preparing spreadsheets and managing interview scheduling, and generally supporting all of the other steps of the search process for the Associate and In-House recruiters. Tiffany Manukure Associate and In-House Practice Manager 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 tmanukure@g-s.com 202.559.0476 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME I like to think of myself as having a very positive attitude that makes things easier for those around me. I’m a hard worker, focus on maximizing efficiencies, and take a very collegial and collaborative approach. I am always striving to put my best foot forward so I can help our clients do the same. OVERVIEW Tiffany supports Garrison’s Associate and In-House teams. Among her many responsibilities, she assists with researching and identifying potentially suitable candidates for searches, helping to research the market for law firm associates, preparing spreadsheets and managing interview scheduling, and generally supporting all of the other steps of the search process for the Associate and In-House recruiters. She also assists with many administrative matters within the company that support day-to-day operations. CREDENTIALS B.A. magna cum laude, Political Science, concentration in Race, Gender, & Politics (minors in American Studies), American University, 2022 OUTSIDE THE OFFICE When not assisting Garrison reach company goals, I am either catching up on some me time or hanging out with friends. As a Maryland resident, there’s always much to explore around me. I spend most of my weekends enjoying the views in Baltimore or trying new food spots in DC. Other activities I love include walking, shopping, and reading. I also enjoy traveling and am making it a goal to visit different states and countries this year! What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Credentials Outside the Office

  • Kaitlyn Hunter | Washington, DC Legal Recruiter | Garrison Search

    Kaitlyn Hunter is a legal recruiter in Washington, DC focusing on placing attorneys in-house and in law firms. Kaitlyn Hunter Managing Director 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 khunter@g-s.com 202.559.0467 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME Recruiting is more than placing candidates. I find it extremely fulfilling to assist attorneys in analyzing their current situations and how to accomplish their goals, whether today or down the road. With extensive knowledge of the lateral market, I approach every search with care, meticulous attention to detail, and sensitivity to the various moving pieces. Aside from my lighthearted and candid nature, you can be confident that I’ll handle every step with the right mix of empathy and guidance. OVERVIEW Kaitlyn collaborates with employers and candidates alike, adeptly facilitating connections that align on both ends. She excels in guiding lateral associate candidates through successful transitions to another firm or company, while catering to their various needs. Simultaneously, Kaitlyn seamlessly assists law firms and in-house corporations in strengthening their practice capabilities by identifying and recruiting exceptional talent. Working with candidates Candidates find in Kaitlyn a trusted and effective advisor, who will guide them throughout the entire search process. She invests in getting to know her candidates and understanding their specific desires when it comes to a new position and their short- and long-term career objectives. This encompasses comprehensive market analysis, candid advice, in-depth resume guidance (drawing on Kaitlyn's deep understanding of what resonates with employers), thorough assessment of opportunities, interview preparation, skillful negotiation of offers and counteroffers, and ultimately, providing support during the resignation process. Kaitlyn is committed to your long-term success, investing whatever time it takes to identify the perfect opportunity. Her approachable nature and ability to foster a comfortable environment make conversations with her enjoyable and engaging. Candidates not only benefit from her expertise but also appreciate the lightheartedness she brings to what can sometimes be a complex process. "Kaitlyn provided a stellar experience of the recruitment process from the very start! Kaitlyn has been a consummate professional from my first conversation with her, and she has been there for every step of my career search process." Midlevel corporate associate Working with employers Kaitlyn has earned the trust and confidence of some of the most esteemed law firms and in-house legal departments throughout the region. Her track record of success and her commitment to excellence have positioned her as a trusted partner. Kaitlyn's approach is characterized by her commitment to providing comprehensive feedback on the lateral market, conducting thorough research tailored to the specific needs of each client, successful outreach strategies, and assistance with negotiating delicate situations. Kaitlyn is candid, thoughtful, and brings an unrelenting desire to make placements that truly fit on all sides. CREDENTIALS B.S., magna cum laude, criminal justice, Old Dominion University, 2016 REPRESENTATIVE PLACEMENTS Kaitlyn has worked with many law firm and in-house attorneys across various practice areas. Recent placements include: Multiple international trade associates into the regulatory transactions group of an AmLaw 25 firm Litigation associate into an elite plaintiff’s litigation boutique Energy associate at a premier DC energy regulatory boutique Associate general counsel at a leading Maryland-based biotech company with a technology partner Environmental associate into a top-ranked environmental regulatory and mass torts group of an AmLaw firm Legal Counsel at a national non-profit focused on health, life sciences and patient advocacy Co-Chair of the government contracts practice in the DC office of a national firm Deputy general counsel (tax) at a leading global association for regulated investment companies Litigation associate into an elite DC-area litigation and defamation boutique Government contracts senior counsel (defense and civilian agencies) in the federal division of a large global IT and business consulting services firm General counsel for Whitman Walker Health Government contracts senior counsel in the federal division of a large global IT and business consulting services firm International arbitration associate at a premier international litigation boutique Associate general counsel (ERISA) at a leading global association for regulated investment companies Government contracts counsel (national security) at a global leader in federal sector management technology and security consulting services Government contracts counsel at a top California-based AmLaw50 firm Multiple real estate counsels into various large local and global real estate developers Associate general counsel (securities regulation) at a leading global association for regulated investment companies Corporate governance & ESG counsel at a global leader in federal sector management technology and security consulting services Investigations/FCPA associate into an AmLaw 50 firm’s top-ranked investigations practice Deputy general counsel at a leading Maryland-based biotech company with a technology partner Government contracts counsel (global defense) at a global leader in federal sector management technology and security consulting services Corporate counsel at a global enterprise software company TESTIMONIALS The following are among the frequent recommendations and endorsements Kaitlyn receives from candidates she has placed in both law firm and in-house positions. "Working with Kaitlyn was seamless from start to finish. After asking detailed questions about my work experience and job search, Kaitlyn immediately found unlisted opportunities with excellent firms. No matter how specific my criteria, or unusual my circumstances, Kaitlyn was dedicated to finding the right fit. Along the way, she provided candid, valuable insight on questions big and small. I am immensely grateful that Kaitlyn and the whole team at Garrison helped me find a great new firm!" Midlevel litigation associate from elite litigation boutique "I had the pleasure of working with Kaitlyn, and I couldn’t be more grateful for her exceptional support throughout my job search. From the very beginning, she was attentive, knowledgeable, and incredibly responsive. She took the time to understand my career goals and skill set, and consistently provided valuable insights to help me prepare for interviews and position myself as a strong candidate. Thanks to Kaitlyn’s efforts, I landed a fantastic opportunity that aligns perfectly with my long-term career aspirations. Her professionalism, dedication, and genuine care made all the difference in my job search experience. I highly recommend Kaitlyn to anyone seeking a recruiter who truly goes above and beyond." Midlevel real estate associate from Chambers-Ranked practice "Kaitlyn and her team at Garrison are hands down the best legal recruiters I’ve ever worked with! Each time we spoke, Kaitlyn was professional, empathetic, responsive and well prepared. She went out of her way to answer all of my questions and made sure I had everything I needed to evaluate the role and, later, an employment offer. She and her team took the time to prepare me for each interview, advocated for me during the offer phase, and were a wealth of knowledge and advice throughout the entire process. Kaitlyn’s thorough preparation and knowledge about the role and legal market made me feel supported every step of the way. I cannot recommend her enough!!" Real estate counsel at a large local real estate developer “Kaitlyn was an indispensable resource in my career transition. She went above and beyond in finding great opportunities and provided insight and coaching about each opportunity. Kaitlyn never relented in her search for the right opportunity which finally presented itself. She made the whole process seamless and easy and went the extra mile to help find me my new role. Kaitlyn cared deeply about finding me a good fit and I cannot thank her enough for her help in this process. I would highly recommend anyone looking to make a career transition to work with Kaitlyn as well as the other professionals at Garrison.” Midlevel government contracts associate from prestigious global firm “From my first discussion about an open role with their client, to coaching me through interview preparation, to periodically checking in with me about my other pursuits, I could tell that Kaitlyn showed me how much she cared about my success as a candidate, regardless of whether or not I was placed with her client. I cannot recommend Garrison enough for both professionals and for companies. This firm is light years ahead of the competition in every sense!” Midlevel corporate associate from regional law firm “Kaitlyn was nothing short of spectacular throughout the process of placing me in my current in-house role (which I love)! From the initial outreach all the way through the accepted offer, her organization, preparation, and experience truly helped me put my best foot forward. I cannot thank her enough!” Technology transactions counsel from an international security and defense contractor “Kaitlyn was terrific to work with. I found her to be knowledgeable, responsive and proactive. I am very happy with my new role and have Kaitlyn to thank for bringing it to my attention and working with me throughout the process.” Associate General Counsel, investment management, from a large government agency INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENT Kaitlyn collaborates annually with The Washington Area Legal Recruitment Administrators Association (WALRAA) and Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) on hosting networking and educational events. Kaitlyn partners with the So Others Might Eat (SOME) organization, which helps prevent poverty and homelessness in the DMV. She helps prepare individuals for job interviews by conducting mock interviews and providing other job-search advice. OUTSIDE THE OFFICE Growing up, I was a competitive cheerleader and now I have transitioned that passion into coaching. At FAME Allstars, I coach children ages 12 -18 and prepare them for local and national competitions. I am an avid supporter for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) and one of my favorite annual events to raise awareness is the Light the Night Walk. I love spending time with my husband and rescued French bulldog, and always welcome the chance to indulge in my passions for tennis, pasta, and wine, but not necessarily in that order. What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Credentials Representative Placements Testimonials Industry Involvement Outside the Office

  • Kendall Kiley | Partner Practice Manager | Garrison Search

    As the Partner Practice Manager for Garrison, Kendall Kiley is known as the one who “keeps the trains running” on the lateral partner side of the firm’s practice. Kendall Kiley Partner Practice Manager 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 kkiley@g-s.com 202.618.6958 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME Every aspect of my role at Garrison includes keeping things on track – this means I have to be simultaneously detail-focused and strategic. My goal is to leave no question unanswered while never being shy about asking questions myself. Colleagues and friends describe me as driven, focused, organized, efficient and responsive – but I balance this by being calm, warm and friendly because that’s my nature. OVERVIEW As the Partner Practice Manager for Garrison, Kendall is known as the one who “keeps the trains running” on the lateral partner side of the firm’s practice. Working with both the Garrison partner practice team and law firm candidates, she is adept at managing the process of identifying suitability and fit and successfully placing lateral partners in key roles at client law firms. Kendall is an essential part of the administrative team that has helped place Garrison at the top of the legal recruiting industry. Kendall’s critical role includes assisting with the research necessary to identify the best laterals, supporting search activities, and organizing recruiter marketing. She assists in developing communications, scheduling meetings, following up on all projects and much more. CREDENTIALS J.D. in progress (graduating 2026), American University Washington College of Law M.A, political science, American University, 2020 B.A. magna cum laude, political science (minors in law and society, philosophy), American University, 2019 OUTSIDE THE OFFICE When not keeping the partner recruiting trains running at Garrison, being a law student keeps me very busy. But I love to make time for trying new art activities, such as crocheting, watercolor painting, and whatever intrigues me in a given moment. When the law books are not calling, I will read almost anything, but I especially like historical fiction and science-focused nonfiction. Other activities I love include thrifting, trying new restaurants, and going to see new movies with friends. Originally from St. Michaels, Maryland, I try to visit with family as often as I can. What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Credentials Outside the Office

  • Erin Sears | Partner | Garrison Search Legal Recruiter

    Erin Sears places attorneys at all levels with some of the country’s best-known firms – from full-service, AmLaw-ranked firms to highly specialized boutiques in major markets around the country. Erin Sears Partner 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 esears@g-s.com 202.370.7684 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME My professional core values include honesty, integrity, and just the right balance of focused commitment and patience. My candidate clients know that I appreciate how much a career change is a defining moment in one’s life both professionally and personally. Giving candidates the confidence to know they are making the “right” decision is a combination of many factors, but in my recruiting approach this often begins and ends with market intel and a careful weighing of the pros and cons of a lateral move. My candidate clients describe me as a “consummate professional with an incredibly ‘high touch’ approach.” My law firm clients trust me to know the marketplace intimately, do the research that identifies the best candidates, and always keep them informed. Having myself practiced for nearly fifteen years at an AmLaw 30 firm, my law firm clients have shared that I am “relatable,” “bring instant credibility,” and “know what [I’m] talking about.” OVERVIEW A Partner with Garrison, Erin has over 15 years of experience in the DC legal market as both a recruiter and attorney at top firms. Erin focuses on law firm placements, working directly with attorneys seeking a lateral move and law firm clients needing to execute on confidential searches. Her experience spans regulatory, transactional and litigation practices, with deep knowledge of practices with some regulatory component, and in particular the financial services and banking sectors (see Representative Placements). Erin works closely with the top-tier firms and Chambers-ranked practices, as well as medium-sized firms and highly specialized boutiques. Candidate clients looking for a career change rely on Erin for guidance throughout the entire lateral process. Her thorough and detailed knowledge of the DC market means she is clear about their best options as she helps them identify firms to consider and pursue; polish and submit materials (e.g., LPQ, business plan, resume, deal sheet); prepare for initial and multi-stage interviews; negotiate offer terms; and navigate conflicts. Erin’s understanding of each candidate’s goals, strengths and personality lead to placements that are a great fit for both the candidate and the employer. Law firm clients have Erin on speed-dial because time after time she succeeds in bringing them not just the top talent – who sometimes don’t even plan to be in the market – but candidates with the highly specific and sometimes hard-to-find skills and experience these firms need. She invests significant time in really getting to know her law firm clients and their individual practice groups – consulting with law firm management, practice leads, partners and their recruiting team – to bring in-depth information about a particular search to the market on a narrow and targeted basis. Erin’s clients trust her and know she “gets it.” CREDENTIALS J.D., Washington University School of Law in St. Louis, 2004 Member, Washington University Law Quarterly B.S., magna cum laude, University of Maryland at College Park, 2001 Double Degrees: International Business and Logistics & Transportation Double Minors: Portuguese and Spanish Prior to joining Garrison, Erin practiced for twelve years at Paul Hastings in DC, as well as at Three Crowns, an elite international arbitration boutique. Her law firm experience has proved an invaluable asset to her law firm and candidate clients. REPRESENTATIVE PLACEMENTS Erin has an impressive track record of placing attorneys in a wide range of regulatory, transactional, and litigation/investigations practices. Sample of Regulatory Placements: (e.g., Financial Services, Broker-Dealer/Investment Adviser, Funds, Healthcare, Privacy, Energy, and National Security) Financial Services regulatory attorney with experience at Federal Reserve Bank of New York with Chambers-ranked practice Financial Services regulatory attorney with experience at FINRA with Chambers-ranked practice Financial Services lawyer with payments, credit card and fintech experience with Chambers-ranked practice Financial Services litigator with AmLaw 20 firm Broker Dealer/Investment Adviser attorney with AmLaw 30 firm Privacy attorney at Chambers-ranked Data Privacy practice Former Enforcement Section Chief at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control with Chambers-ranked National Security practice of AmLaw 50 firm In-house Counsel at wireless communications manufacturer as Export Controls attorney with Chambers-ranked National Security practice of AmLaw 50 firm FERC regulatory specialist at Magic Circle firm Healthcare regulatory and transactional attorney at AmLaw 5 firm Sample of Transactional Placements: ( e.g., Project Development/Finance, M&A, Finance & Real Estate) Commercial Lending attorney with elite, nationwide, finance-focused firm Capital Markets attorney with AmLaw 5 firm Structured Credit attorney with AmLaw 20 firm Project Development/Project Finance attorney with AmLaw 5 firm M&A attorney with leading Media/Publications practice for preeminent firm M&A attorney with top-ranked Technology Transactions practice of AmLaw 10 firm Real Estate attorney with AmLaw 25 firm Sample of Litigation & Investigations Placements: (e.g., Civil, White Collar, Antitrust, Government Contracts, Intellectual Property, Patent Litigation) Numerous placements of litigation and white collar attorneys with top AmLaw firms and boutiques, including complex commercial litigation, ERISA, FCPA, Communications, etc. Numerous placements of antitrust attorneys with top AmLaw firms PTAB/Hatch-Waxman litigator with elite patent litigation boutique Government Contracts attorney with AmLaw 50 firm TESTIMONIALS Below are some of the endorsements Erin has received from her law firm and attorney clients: Law Firms “Erin is a trusted resource for our firm. Our recruiting team and practice leaders ask for her by name. She invests energy and enthusiasm into learning about her clients’ practices and priorities which leads to great results for her candidates and our firm. Erin consistently presents female and diverse candidates, which is phenomenal and reflective of our firm’s shared values.” Lateral Recruiting Coordinator, AmLaw 30 Firm “I trust Erin with exclusive and unpublished searches because she knows the lateral market, our firm, and the candidates who meet our requirements and fit within our firm culture. There’s a presumption that any candidate that Erin sends our way is worth careful consideration." Lateral Recruiting Coordinator, AmLaw 10 Firm Candidates “Erin identified a select handful of firms and provided meaningful insight into each that proved invaluable as I was making my decision. She tailored her approach to fit my (very) specific goals, and I appreciated her deep knowledge of the market." Financial Services, AmLaw 30 Firm “I was unsure about leaving my firm, but also felt that something needed to change. With thanks to Erin, she set up informal meetings with several attorneys at what is now my current firm, and that enabled both sides to learn more about each other and whether it would be a good fit. I really didn’t expect to leave, but so glad she facilitated the opportunity for me to see my options. That approach worked with my comfort level, and I am now extremely grateful to be where I am.” Technology Transactions, AmLaw 10 Firm "Erin is a thoughtful and patient listener and a fierce advocate - throughout the process, her informed market acumen, precision, care and clear communication style were ever-present. She is a consummate professional with an incredibly ‘high-touch’ approach - I was confident at all times throughout the process that I was in the most capable of hands. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to make a move (and even, perhaps, if you aren't yet sure)." Leveraged Finance/Commercial Lending, Chambers-Ranked Practice “I receive so many emails from recruiters, but responded to Erin because it stood apart from the rest – she had taken the time to read my biography and understand my practice. She was sharing details about a specific law firm opportunity, and it was clear she knew so much about that firm and their real estate practice. By far the best experience I’ve had with a recruiter. I would recommend her to anyone making a move.” Real Estate, AmLaw 20 Firm “Several years passed from my initial conversation with Erin to the time I reached back out to her to explore lateral opportunities. Her initial approach was so refreshing in comparison to other recruiters that I held onto her details. She is professional, thorough, relatable – and very patient. We let several opportunities pass to find the right one and it was worth the wait. Plus, I appreciate other working parents – it’s a valuable perspective.” Antitrust, AmLaw 10 Firm "I appreciated Erin's patience and expert insights throughout the lateral process, particularly in suggesting and negotiating offer terms, and in navigating potential conflicts. She was also adept at leveraging my technical background. The results Erin delivered were beyond what I'd thought possible, and she made it seem easy. When someone asks for a referral, I always point to Erin and let them know she's the only recruiter I'd ever want to work with.” Patent Litigation, Elite Boutique “I was referred to Erin by a friend who she had also helped with a lateral move. I was returning to the U.S. from London and interested in top-tier practices in New York, Boston and DC. I cannot say enough about how seamless she made the entire process – everything was streamlined, including identifying firms and review of my deal sheet, which saved me an incredible amount of time.” Capital Markets, AmLaw 10 Firm OUTSIDE THE OFFICE I live in Cleveland Park near the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. Like most parents, the simplest pleasures come from spending time with my family. So, for my two boys, this means cheering loudly on the sidelines for their travel soccer and baseball teams (and alongside them for a Nats game or Real Madrid match). For our beloved german shepherd, Rocky, this means a lot of scratches and fetch. Born and raised in Annapolis, Maryland, I still enjoy being on the water – boating, paddleboarding and hosting the traditional crab feast. I also support and volunteer with the Virginia German Shepherd Rescue. What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Credentials Representative Placements Testimonials Outside the Office

  • Dan Binstock | Legal Recruiter, Washington, DC | Head, Partner Practice Group | Garrison Search

    Dan Binstock, legal recruiter in Washington, DC, heads the partner practice and focuses on placing lateral partners and groups in law firms in DC and nationwide. Dan Binstock Partner 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 dbinstock@g-s.com 202.559.0472 Prior to becoming a legal recruiter in 2004, Dan practiced intellectual property law with Finnegan Henderson, a national intellectual property boutique based in Washington, DC. He earned his J.D., magna cum laude , from American University, Washington College of Law, where he served as editor on the International Law Review . Dan received his undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Maryland while working as pianist for the musical political comedy troupe The Capitol Steps. Named by LawDragon as one of the top 100 legal consultants and strategists for the past eight consecutive years (2017-Present). Past President, National Association of Legal Search Consultants (NALSC), 2018-2021 Chair, Ethics Committee, NALSC, 2015-2018, 2023 - Present Board Member, American Bar Association Legal Career Central, 2017-2018 REPRESENTATIVE PLACEMENTS ACCOLADES AND LEADERSHIP MEDIA, WRITING, AND SPEAKING Dan has placed hundreds of attorneys, and his expertise placing partners, groups, and high-level government attorneys covers a wide range of practice areas, which he has honed over the past 20 years. Recent examples include: Government investigations practice group into top-tier AmLaw firm Financial services and banking regulatory practice into top-tier AmLaw firm White collar/securities enforcement practice into top-tier AmLaw firm Privacy partner into mid-sized AmLaw firm High-level DOJ attorney from the Fraud Section into top-tier AmLaw firm Head of global clean energy practice into top-tier AmLaw firm Investment management partner into top-tier AmLaw firm High-level antitrust attorney from the FTC into top-tier AmLaw firm Banking regulatory/FinTech partner into top-tier AmLaw firm Copyright litigation partner into top-tier AmLaw firm High-level CFTC attorney as partner into mid-sized AmLaw firm Patent prosecution practice into mid-sized AmLaw firm CFIUS partner into top-tier AmLaw firm Health care practice into mid-sized AmLaw firm High level insurance litigation and regulatory firm into mid-sized AmLaw firm Structure finance practice into top-tier AmLaw Firm Global immigration practice into top-tier AmLaw firm Political law practice into mid-sized AmLaw firm Bankruptcy partner into top-tier Magic Circle firm Patent litigation practice into IP boutique Real estate/land use practice into mid-sized AmLaw firm FinTech/blockchain practice into top-tier AmLaw firm Energy practice into mid-sized AmLaw firm National security attorney from the DOJ as a partner into a technology boutique TESTIMONIALS "I’ve had the opportunity to work with many recruiters, and your acuity, professionalism and collegiality have set a new standard. I look forward to continuing to work with you." Managing Partner, AmLaw 50 Firm “His advice is so well-reasoned, and he’s masterful at recognizing the real issues and helping you navigate all the emotions.” Corporate/Finance Partner, AmLaw 5 Firm “I kept hearing Dan’s name as the ‘go to’ recruiter for partners and now I know why. There is truly no one like him. Recruiter, Therapist, Spiritual Guide. He is all in one. Dan is an expert on the market and on the recruiting process, and has the unique insight of someone who knows everyone in the legal field and the directions in which things are moving. His process helps the candidate clarify their goals early and do the hard work of preparation on the front end. He holds your hand during the entire process so that you will never feel alone through the difficult stages. Dan is unfailingly honest and always encouraging. Law firms trust him also, so he is able to broker a great fit for all involved. I would never work with anyone else.” Co-Chair, Financial Services Practice, AmLaw 50 Firm "Dan transforms the experience of working with a recruiter. He is tough when he needs to be, but more importantly there for you when you need him the most. He is quite simply the best recruiter I have ever worked with." Co-Head, Financial Regulatory Practice, AmLaw 25 Firm “Simple words on paper don’t do justice to understanding and appreciating Dan Binstock. You have to speak to Dan to fully appreciate the kind of professional guide, mentor, and friend he can become.” Co-Chair, Government Contracts Practice, AmLaw 100 Firm “You achieved my objective, you were patient throughout, you corrected my missteps with grace, and you sorted out the best firms. But more than all that, you became my trusted counselor during a difficult economic and, yes, emotional time. I have never seen anyone in your business do that." Partner and Former GC of Fortune 100 Company "Dan takes the time to understand law firms and lawyers on a deeper personal level that is meaningful, which translates into the genesis of a greater match when lawyers merge into a new law firm. The result is powerful because everyone is working in the same direction with common goals and methods of achieving those goals. In our case, Dan quickly assessed personalities and created a match that fits like a glove. The team could not be happier, and the law firm is thrilled. Both sides are stronger and thriving because of this match. We have Dan to thank for this." Co-Chair, Health Care Practice, AmLaw 100 Firm “When my partners and I decided that our clients would be better served by combining with a firm with a national footprint, we were fortunate to have Dan Binstock by our side as we embarked on our search. He took the time to get to know us and understood what mattered most to us—finding a firm built on the principles that matched our own. Dan is, quite simply, a consummate professional and a fine person. We are so glad he was part of our team.” Former Managing Partner of a Chambers-ranked Boutique "I have now made three lateral moves in my 20 years of practicing law. Dan managed the last one, and it was by far the smoothest and most rewarding. Dan found a great match for me at a firm where I have doubled the size of my practice in just one year. I highly recommend Dan and have referred colleagues to him." Partner, AmLaw 100 Firm “Dan's in-depth knowledge of the DC legal marketplace, particularly coupled with his caring attitude and superior negotiation skills, makes him the most effective placement professional I have yet to come in contact with. I would not have made the move to my new firm without him -- he truly helped make the transition a success for all involved.” Partner and Head of Trademark Practice at IP Boutique I love music, and during the pandemic I developed an online piano bar concept called Virtual Piano Party . I am known to my two teenage daughters and on Instagram and TikTok as @PianoDadDan, which has over one million followers who try to stump me with piano requests. My favorite music is the 80s. I also serve as the President of a charitable giving foundation supporting a range of non-profits both locally and nationally. I live in Potomac, Maryland (where I grew up) with my wife, two daughters, and two Cavapoos, Maggie and Tucker. CREDENTIALS AND PAST EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW Dan focuses on lateral partners and practice groups. A veteran legal recruiter based in Washington, DC, he's placed hundreds of attorneys and brokered many high-profile partner and practice group moves, as well as high-level government transitions to private practice. His clients range from top AmLaw firms to premiere boutiques in DC and throughout the US. Highlights: Ethics Chair and Past President, National Association of Legal Search Consultants (NALSC). Columnist, "Dear Dan: Demystifying Legal Recruiters " (The American Lawyer). Top 100 Global Legal Consultant and Strategist (LawDragon, 2017 – Present). Founding Editor, LateralPartners.com . Author, "The Attorney's Guide to Using (Or Not Using) Legal Recruiters " (2016). Advisor to top law schools on the DC market. Working with candidates A lateral transition has unanticipated speed bumps, and Dan's process helps you minimize disruption to your current practice while you navigate each step of your transition. He facilitates tailored interactions with the firms you are considering and anticipates potential sticking points, which provides a “two-steps ahead” perspective that generates sound counsel at each stage of the process. This includes: - Sharing non-publicly available insight about different firms, including deep financial performance information as it relates to peers, track record of recent hires and departures, and other relevant information. - Assisting with the confidential preparation and presentation of your materials. - Coordinating and ensuring that you are well-prepared for meetings. - Guiding you through and assisting with the often voluminous and complex Lateral Partner Questionnaires (LPQs) and other due diligence. - Helping analyze competing offers and the pros/cons of each using proprietary comparison tools that help bring significant clarity to your decision-making process. - Negotiating compensation terms on your behalf, which includes analysis of market norms for leverage. - Strategizing notice to your current firm and helping you create a tailored transition plan, and helping connect you with ethics counsel when necessary. "Dan is much more than a placement agent. He’s a strategic advisor about your career. That’s a distinguishing factor that puts him in a class of his own." -Corporate/Finance Partner, AmLaw 5 Firm Working with employers Dan’s unique approach has led to firms hiring him on a retained and/or consulting basis. He has developed useful tools to help firms develop or update their narratives in a clear and comprehensive fashion that will resonate with today’s target partners. Dan has also distinguished himself for his ability to bring candidates to the table for confidential discussions, especially those who are not on the market. As an AmLaw 10 partner on the hiring side recently shared, “Every partner we interviewed through you spent the first few minutes praising you as a recruiter and said they would not be here if not for you. We have worked with the largest search firms in the country and have never seen results like this.” "I wish Dan could be my recruiter for all of our 30+ offices. He is by far the best legal recruiter I have worked with in my 25 years…With Dan, I feel like I truly 'get what I pay for.'" -Chair, Partner Recruiting and Integration, AmLaw 100 Firm OUTSIDE THE OFFICE Dan brings a wealth of experience and understanding of the complex world in which he and his clients function. He is always willing to share what he has learned over decades of practice and what he sees as important current trends through the articles and books he writes, as well as the many interviews he gives to journalists covering the legal industry. Recent Articles (as industry commentator) "After Strong 2024 Growth, US Firms Face Looming Uncertainty ," Law360 (June 5, 2025) "The 2025 NLJ 500: After Head Count Growth Exploded Last Year, Law Firms Pull in the Reins ," Law.com (June 5, 2025) "Partners Hesitant To Leave Biglaw Firms That Capitulated To Trump — Because What If The Next Firm Does It Too? " Above the Law (May 12, 2025) "Stay or Go? Some Partners and Associates Are Considering Exits at Law Firms Settling With Trump ," The American Lawyer (May 8, 2025) "Exodus at DOJ Civil Rights Division Sends Attorneys on Job Hunt ," National Law Journal (May 7, 2025) "What's Life Like For a Nonequity Partner? From Duties to Duration to Tax Status, the Answer Is Complicated ," The American Lawyer (May 6, 2025) "Rich? Some Athletes Get Rich—These Law Firms Are Getting 'Super Rich', " The American Lawyer (April 15, 2025) "From 'Micro Adjustments' to 'Scenario Planning,' Firms Look to Reevaluate 2025 Outlook ," The American Lawyer (April 15, 2025) "BigLaw's 'Calculus' On Trump Orders Infused With Risk ," Law360 (March 28, 2025) "Should Eight-Figure Lateral Partners Make It Rain Right Away? " The American Lawyer (February 26, 2025) "Under Trump, D.C. Faces More Federal Control, Fewer Federal Workers ," The New York Times (February 20, 2025) "Trump's Exiting Government Lawyers Swamp DC Firms With Resumes ," Bloomberg Law (February 18, 2025) "Staying Hungry, The Am Law 200 Took an Extra Serving of Lateral Hires Last Year ," The American Lawyer (February 18, 2025) "Eight-Figure Outliers Aside, These Lateral Candidates Face a 'Buyer's Market' in Big Law ," The American Lawyer (February 13, 2025) "'Work There Will Dry Up’: White-Collar Defense Practices Poised to See Slow Downs ," National Law Journal (February 13, 2025) "Government Attorneys Want OUT ," Above the Law (February 3, 2025) "Government Attorneys are Scrambling to Leave the Federal Workforce ," ABA Journal (January 31, 2025) "Weil Saw 20 People Leave in Partners' Lateral Move to Paul Weiss ," The American Lawyer (January 17, 2025) "Law Firms Grapple With Nonequity Partner Pay ‘Friction’ ," The American Lawyer (January 14, 2025) "As Bonus Pools Expand, Challenges Grow in Partner Compensation ," The American Lawyer (January 13, 2025) "Biggest DC Legal Industry News From 2024 ," Law360 (December 20, 2024) "Government Attorneys Are Flooding the Job Market, But Is There Room in Big Law? " National Law Journal (December 8, 2024) "Congressional Inquiry Practices To Stay Hot With GOP Sweep ," Law360 (November 26, 2024) "From ‘Deep Sadness’ to Little Concern, Gaetz’s Nomination Draws Sharp Reaction From Lawyers ," National Law Journal (November 20, 2024) "'Sharp and Profound' Policy Shifts Prompt DC Law Firms to Evaluate Opportunities, Challenges ," National Law Journal (November 8, 2024) "Where Will Partner Hiring Surge Under Trump? " The American Lawyer (November 7, 2024) "Trump’s win brings new opportunities, challenges for US law firms ," Reuters (November 6, 2024) "Trump's Return to the White House: The Legal Industry Reacts, " Law.com (November 6, 2024) "Freshfields, Paul Hastings, McDermott, Alston Hire in Core Practices, Amid Flurry of Q4 Lateral Moves ," The American Lawyer (November 4, 2024) "Law Firm Seeks to Recoup Recruiter's Fee From Ex-CFO Who Had Brief Tenure on Job ," New Jersey Law Journal (October 31, 2024) "From Guaranteed Comp to Ethics Screens, How Big Law Navigates the Revolving Door ," National Law Journal (October 29, 2024) "The Psychology Of Top Firms' Growing Partner Pay Spreads ," Law360 (October 29, 2024) "Guarantees Are Back, Whether Law Firms Want to Talk About Them or Not ," The American Lawyer (October 28, 2024) "With Election in Sight, DOJ Moves to Law Firms Accelerate ," National Law Journal (October 17, 2024) "Veteran DC Recruiter Joins Garrison From Lateral Link ," Law360 (October 16, 2024) "Are Single-Tier Partnership Law Firms Fighting the Wind? " The American Lawyer (October 14, 2024) "Big Law Making Top IP Partner Hires as 'Demand Far Outweighs Supply' of First-Chair Patent Litigators ," National Law Journal (October 9, 2024) "Are Lead Attorney Relationships More Important Now Than Law Firm Brands? " The American Lawyer (September 25, 2024) "'Underwriting' Laterals Stokes Tension Among Nonequity Partners ," The American Lawyer (September 13, 2024) "Law Firm Leaders See Rapid Movement by Laterals as Red Flag ," Daily Report (September 6, 2024) "Comp Offers for Lateral Partners Now Show Big Law's Buying Power ," The American Lawyer (September 6, 2024) "As Nonequity Tiers Give Greater 'Compensation Flexibility,' Other Law Firms Will Likely Follow Wilmer ," National Law Journal (August 23, 2024) "Some Law Firms 'Bullish' a Trump Presidency Will Push M&A Activity, but Lawyers Aren't Sitting on Deals Now, " National Law Journal (August 21, 2024) "Skadden’s Reputation Remains Sterling. So Why Are Partners Leaving? " The American Lawyer (August 12, 2024) "'Harder to Justify' Counsel Tiers in Big Law, Amid Focus on Nonequity Partners, Lateral Recruiting ," The American Lawyer (July 25, 2024) "How DC Pay Transparency Law May Or May Not Impact Firms ," Law360 (July 12, 2024) "Exit Strategy: The Return From Government to Big Law ," The American Lawyer (July 10, 2024) "'More Extensive' Vetting: How Law Firms Are Picking Laterals ," New York Law Journal (July 3, 2024) "Where Will Trump's Prosecutors Land After Sentencing? " National Law Journal (June 26, 2024) "BigLaw Talent Wars Reach Congressional Oversight Attys, " Law360 (June 12, 2024) "How Attorney Titles in Big Law Can Mean Everything, and Nothing, All at Once, " The American Lawyer (June 10, 2024) "How To Make The Leap From BigLaw To Legal Recruiter ," Law 360 (May 6, 2024) "Morrison Cohen Leaders Tout Revised Pay for Firm Originators ," Bloomberg Law (April 25, 2024) "FTC's Noncompete Ban Could Encourage Mobility Among Legal Recruiters ," The American Lawyer (April 26, 2024) "In Big Law Partner Hiring, Business Plans Become 'Litmus Test' For Government Hires ," National Law Journal (April 9, 2024) "Government Lawyers, Particularly at DOJ, Are 'Flooding' the Job Market ," National Law Journal (April 3, 2024) "Anticipating Transactional Rebound, Am Law 50 Steps Up Partner Hiring in Early 2024 ," The American Lawyer (March 12, 2024) "FisherBroyles Exodus Shows Rift Over Virtual Firm Profits, Taxes ," Bloomberg Law (January 8, 2024) "Law Firms Seek Flexibility in Revised Partner Comp Systems, Balancing Seniority With Productivity ," The American Lawyer (December 28, 2023) "Key Regulatory, Enforcement Practices Drove DC Law Firm Hiring in 2023 ," National Law Journal (December 27, 2023) "Law Firms Offer Income Partners ‘Skin in the Game’ With Partial Equity Status ," The American Lawyer (November 16, 2023) "Ex-Arizona AG’s Ethics Probe Follows Him to Boies Schiller Job ," Bloomberg Law (November 6, 2023) "Litigators Are 'Scrambling' to Staff Cases, Battling Rate, Revenue and Quality Challenges ," The American Lawyer (November 6, 2023) "Stroock To Wind Down NY Office, Impacting 138 ," Law 360 (November 3, 2023) "What Should Law Firms Take Away From Stroock's Demise? " Law 360 (November 1, 2023) "Firms Confront Tough Questions About Single-Tier Partnerships in Wake of Surging Profits ," The American Lawyer (October 31, 2023) "Big Law Attorneys Are Hitting the Lateral Market. Should Midsize Firms Hire Them? " Law.com (October 31, 2023) "Law Firms Doing More 'Tire-Kicking' Before Hiring Lateral Partners ," The American Lawyer (October 23, 2023) "Partner Pay Climbs in DC, as NY Firms and Lateral Market Drive Up Comp Packages ," National Law Journal (October 19, 2023) "With Collections Push Underway, Some DC Law Firms Remain Optimistic About 2023 Profits ," National Law Journal (October 11, 2023) "Longer Partnership Tracks Are Fueling Lateral Recruiting ," Law360 (October 5, 2023) "Law Firm Hiring in DC Focuses on High-Demand Antitrust, Investigations Practices ," National Law Journal (September 22, 2023) "Will Lateral Battle Between Kirkland and Paul Weiss Create 'Ripple Effects'? " The American Lawyer (September 18, 2023) "AI Will Raise Novel Issues in Insurance Litigation: The Morning Minute ," Law.com (August 28, 2023) "One Big Advantage of Growth by Acquisition? Sticky Clients ," The American Lawyer (August 25, 2023) "Comp Likely to Top $10M for 3 Kirkland Laterals Jumping to Paul Weiss ," The American Lawyer (August 18, 2023) "As Pressure Grows for In-Office Mandates, Washington Law Firms Likely to Face 'Resistance' ," National Law Journal (August 7, 2023) "Willkie's Growth in DC Highlights Transition to Go Beyond a 'DC Outpost of Wall Street Firm', " National Law Journal (August 7, 2023) "Cravath, Facing Fierce Competition, Builds Out DC Office With Top Government Hires ," National Law Journal (July 31, 2023) "'Universal' Lateral Partner Questionnaire Seeks to Set Industry Standard ," The American Lawyer (June 22, 2023) "Big Law Firms in DC 'Struggling' With How to Approach In-Office Policies ," National Law Journal (June 14, 2023) "When Rainmakers Leave, Partners Ask 'Should I Stay or Should I Go?' " The American Lawyer (June 5, 2023) “Law Firm Hiring from DOJ and FTC Slows, Amid Uncertainty in Big Law ,” National Law Journal (May 24, 2023) “Antitrust Hiring Slows After Spree, but Demand Stays Steady ,” Law360 (May 12, 2023) “Where are All the Financial Regs Lawyers? Big Law Has a Need for More ,” Law.com (April 24, 2023) “DC Firms Have Strong Showing in Latest Am Law 100 ,” National Law Journal (April 21, 2023) “DC Law Firms Invest in IP Practices, Amid ‘Consistent’ Demand in Patent Practices and ITC Work ,” National Law Journal (April 11, 2023) “DC Law Firms Entered 2023 on Solid Footing, but Rate Pressure Looms ,” National Law Journal (April 7, 2023) “As Antitrust Enforcement Booms, Attorneys Eye AI and ESG as Emerging Targets ,” National Law Journal (February 28, 2023) “Why BigLaw is Rushing to Get Bigger in 2023 ,” Law360 (January 30, 2023) “4 Worries for managing Partners Heading into 2023 ,” Law360 (January 2, 2023) Recent Articles (as author) "Dear Dan: How Best to Assess a Firm's Culture ," The American Lawyer (May 14, 2025) "Beyond the Compensation: Advice from Top Law Firm Leaders to Lateral Partners ," The American Lawyer (February 13, 2025) "Top Tips for Lateral Partners: Part Two ," The American Lawyer (December 10, 2024) "Top Tips for Lateral Partners ," The American Lawyer (November 1, 2024) "Lateral Partners and Ethics Landmines ," The American Lawyer (September 20, 2024) " Dear Dan: Lateral Partners, Mixed Feelings, and Ghosting ," The American Lawyer (2024) " Dear Dan: Blunt Advice from Top Law Firms About Legal Recruiters – Part Four: Bringing it All Together ," The American Lawyer (2024) " Dear Dan: Blunt Advice from Top Law Firms About Legal Recruiters—Part Three ," The American Lawyer (2024) "Dear Dan: Blunt Advice From Top Law Firms About Legal Recruiters—Part Two ," The American Lawyer (2024) "Dear Dan: Blunt Advice from Top Law Firms About Legal Recruiters—Part One ," The American Lawyer (2024) "Law Firm and In-House Recruiting Are Very Different: Here's How ," The American Lawyer (2024) " How Legal Recruiting (Really) Works ," The American Lawyer (2024) "Dear Dan: Why Are Multiple Recruiters Pitching Me About the Same Job at the Same Time? " The American Lawyer (2024) "Dear Dan: Demystifying Legal Recruiters ," The American Lawyer (2023) "Using Integration Discussions During Lateral Partner Interviews ," The American Lawyer (2023) “One Simple Strategy to Improve Lateral Partner Due Diligence ,” The American Lawyer (2022) (as co-author) “Repurposing of Associates During a Slowdown: Pros, Cons, and Unintended Consequences ,” The American Lawyer (2022) (as co-author) “High-Performing Partners Equally Plagued with Mental Health Struggles ,” The American Lawyer (2021) “Navigating the Ethical Maze When Moving from Government to Private Practice ,” The American Lawyer (2019) “Is Your Firm Guilty of Playing Lateral Partner Bingo? ” The American Lawyer (2017) “Making a Lateral Move? Here's How to Get a Signing Bonus ,” The American Lawyer (2015) Books The Attorneys Guide to Using (Or Not Using) Legal Recruiters: Answers to Important Questions Most Attorney’s Don’t Know to Ask … But Should, Amazon, 2015 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME You'll receive market intelligence, access to decision makers, protection of your confidentiality, and seasoned guidance based on 20 years in the market. Because the smallest details can make the biggest difference, my approach is discreet and exacting in a way that brings you confidence and calm. The lateral partner process involves unanticipated bumps and blind spots, and I’m at my best when counseling you through them. I'm an open book, and you'll hopefully feel more at ease by having a (proudly and slightly OCD) confidant and seasoned advocate in your corner at every stage . Representative Placements Accolades and Leadership Media, Writing and Speaking Testimonials Credentials and Past Experience Overview Outside the Office What It's Like To Work With Me

  • Kathy Charlwood - Senior Administrator | Managing Director | Garrison Search

    As the administrator in charge of the business functions of Garrison, Kathy Charlwood is responsible for a long list of functions critical to the firm’s ability to successfully serve its clients. Kathy Charlwood Senior Administrator 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 kcharlwood@g-s.com 202.559.0475 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME Managing the business side of Garrison requires a great deal of discipline, a trait I bring to everything I do. My Garrison colleagues say I’m focused and reliable, but also warm, friendly and even keeled. Unusual or last-minute requests don’t fluster me, and I will respond quickly with an answer or solution. I love helping to ensure the numbers add up to a firm that successfully provides the best opportunities for our clients. OVERVIEW As the administrator in charge of the business functions of Garrison, Kathy is responsible for a long list of functions critical to the firm’s ability to successfully serve its clients. She manages budgets, creates monthly financial reports, maintains all accounting systems, manages vendor and banking relationships, and handles all payments that come in and go out. Kathy also serves as the primary contact with the firm’s outside accountants, providing the data they consistently need. She is also responsible for managing Garrison’s business and worker’s compensation insurance and audits, as well as the firm’s benefits programs. Kathy is quick to take the initiative whenever and wherever it is needed. CREDENTIALS B.S., business administration, University of Saint Joseph, 1983 OUTSIDE THE OFFICE I love running and hiking, and one of my favorite hikes is McAfee Knob in the Roanoke Valley of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s on the bucket list for hikers from around the world. As an owner of a 1930s home, I also enjoy the challenge of restoring it while making it a functioning home today. There is much left to do! My reading focus these days is historical fiction, and I read a wide variety of books from many authors. Of course, spending time with my large extended family and my friends is high on my priority list. What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Credentials Outside the Office

  • Nancy Palermo | Partner | Washington, DC Legal Recruiter | Garrison Search

    Nancy Palermo is a legal recruiter in Washington, DC focusing on in-house placements, including general counsel, associate general counsel, and other high-level corporate attorney positions. Nancy Palermo Partner 1627 I Street, NW Suite 1230 Washington, DC 20006 npalermo@g-s.com 202.559.0470 WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME Whether I’m helping a candidate move from one in-house position to a new one or helping a company recruit the perfect candidate, our clients count on me to fully understand their goals, conduct thorough research and apply my insight, and counsel them through to a successful result. They trust me as a knowledgeable advisor not only because of my decades of experience, but also as one who will always be honest and direct regarding their search, while at the same time being a compassionate and genuinely warm person. OVERVIEW Nancy is both the head of Garrison’s in-house practice and the firm’s COO. She uses her decades of experience in legal recruiting to help companies enhance their in-house legal capabilities by adding one or more attorneys to fill general counsel and/or associate general counsel other attorney positions in various practice disciplines. She does this in two ways: counseling candidates coming from law firms who wish to transition to in-house practice and advising those currently in-house on opportunities to achieve their career objectives with a new company. In both cases, the goal is to match candidates with companies and available positions she knows will be a great fit all around. Prior to becoming a legal recruiter, Nancy was corporate counsel to an environmental services company in Maryland. She also gained private practice experience as a litigation associate with a Maryland law firm. Nancy received her J.D. from Catholic University, Columbus School of Law in 1997. She was appointed to the Board of Visitors in 2007 and serves as Chairperson of the Board’s Career and Professional Development Committee. She received her B.A. from the University of Richmond in 1989 and has five years of prior business experience in marketing and sales for two consumer product companies in New York. Working with candidates Nancy first gets to know candidates’ objectives and personal and professional motivations. The better she understands these, the more efficient, refined and effective her searches and counseling can be. With this knowledge as the foundation of Nancy’s work with lawyers seeking a transition, she identifies the types of positions that would be most appropriate and informs them of the opportunities that fit. Nancy’s experience and instincts are key in counseling the candidate on his/her best options and matching them with the positions she’s seeking to fill. From there, Nancy works side-by side with the candidate, from the resume and interview rehearsal through an offer negotiation. Nancy often hears from candidates that she is the most professional and comprehensive recruiter they’ve worked with. She doesn’t sugar-coat - she is always honest and gets results. Working with employers Focused largely in the Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia (DMV) region, and with a reputation for excellence and success second to none, Garrison has assisted more than 100 companies with candidate searches, and Nancy has been the recruiter for most of them. Today, largely because of her DMV focus, many of her searches are for attorneys with specific government contracting and technology transactions experience, so she has developed a particular expertise in those areas. Nancy’s success placing in-house attorneys plus the broad and detailed subject matter with which she is familiar, have positioned her to expertly handle in-house searches that call for lawyers with varying and specific practice focuses. In her COO role, Nancy helps determine and implement Garrison’s business strategies and manages its day-to-day operations. She provides leadership, management and vision to help Garrison grow and ensure its financial strength and operating efficiency. REPRESENTATIVE PLACEMENTS CREDENTIALS AND PAST EXPERIENCE Across two decades of legal recruiting, Nancy has successfully filled a wide range of in-house legal positions, including, among many others, the following: Deputy general counsel at a leading, Maryland-based biotech company with a technology partner from a Florida-based firm (remote) Associate general counsel, government contracts position at a global leader in federal sector management, technology and security consulting services with a senior corporate counsel from a non-profit, management consulting firm Associate general counsel position at a national real estate finance and development fund based in suburban Virginia with a mid-level real estate finance associate from an AmLaw 30 firm Associate general counsel, corporate and securities position at a high-growth, Mid-Atlantic-based regional bank with a counsel from the Raleigh office of an AmLaw 100 firm (remote) Associate general counsel, privacy position at a leading, online educational technology company with a counsel at an education research, technology and consulting firm Associate general counsel, M&A position at a DC-based, pre-IPO software, data and media company with a senior counsel at a multinational specialty biopharmaceutical company Vice president and associate general counsel, commercial transactions position at a leading, DC-based self-regulatory organization for brokerage firms and exchange markets with a corporate counsel at a global, mission-driven trade association Senior director and assistant general counsel, government contracts position at a global Leader in cloud infrastructure technology with a deputy associate solicitor at the Department of Labor Vice president and assistant general counsel position at a DC-based solar energy finance, trading and development company with a counsel in an AmLaw 30 firm with a leading project finance practice Investigations counsel position at a premier global government contractor with an assistant United States attorney (AUSA) who had prior tenure at an AmLaw 50 firm Senior vice president and associate general counsel position at a Virginia-based, publicly traded asset management and real estate development company with a counsel at a D.C.-based, privately held real estate development and property management company Corporate counsel position at a leading, global defense contractor with a senior attorney, procurement law at the Government Accountability Office Labor and employment counsel position at a rapidly expanding, global government contracts services company with a Paris-based labor and employment attorney at a leading airline carrier Chief privacy officer position at a leading online educational technology company with the chief privacy officer at the Federal Trade Commission Associate general counsel position at a regional infrastructure and development company with a senior associate at an AmLaw 20 firm Senior counsel, commercial transactions position at a Maryland-based, pre-IPO software company with a mid-level corporate M&A associate at an AmLaw 50 firm Associate general counsel, government contracts position at a global leader in federal sector management, technology and security consulting services with a principal and associate general counsel at a leading provider of information technology and consulting services to commercial and governmental entities Associate general counsel, disputes and litigation position at a Virginia-based consumer oriented technology company with a senior associate at a nationally recognized media law boutique firm Tax counsel position at a global trade association for regulated funds with a senior tax associate at a global firm General counsel for a privately owned real estate investment, advisory and management company with a counsel at a national firm with a premier real estate practice TESTIMONIALS “Nancy provides the specialized type of service that makes me feel like I am her most important client. Her meticulous work when developing each search we've done has paid off in the quality of candidates netted and, ultimately, in the quality of attorneys we've hired. She has also made herself readily available to help me work through how to think about different positions before we even committed to running a search.” Todd Glassman, General Counsel, 2U, Inc. “I have worked with Nancy Palermo and Garrison over the last 10 years, starting with my own placement as general counsel. I have found her/them without fail to be the best recruiter/recruiting agency that I’ve worked with over the years, and they have successfully placed candidates who have not only the right skill set, but the right cultural fit for the organization.” General Counsel, North America, leading transportation management and development company “We have used Garrison for our recruitment on an exclusive basis for years. Nancy takes the time to understand the position and thoroughly vet candidates so that only the highest qualified make the interview process. Her unique ability to match the right candidate to our corporate culture has proved invaluable.” Jubal Thompson, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Comstock Holding Companies, Inc. “I greatly appreciated Nancy’s guidance and partnership during my search for a senior level attorney. The candidates were top-notch, and Nancy took pains to accommodate all of my requests and those of my Human Resources group. Best of all, thanks to her, I got a great hire.” Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, financial services industry leader “Working with Nancy and the Garrison team was a pleasure. Job searching alone is a tremendously difficult and stressful task, but then, once the searching is done, interviewing begins. Interviews are also stressful and anxiety inducing, but Nancy and her team made the entire process so much easier. Not only did the team provide me helpful information and interview preparation, they also provided me with emotional support to alleviate my stress and boost confidence. Nancy genuinely takes an interest in you and listens. Nancy and her team guide you through the entire process and also follows up with you after you’ve secured the position." Associate Counsel, global enterprise technology company INSIGHTS AND SPEAKING “Staying Connected and Advancing in your Organization in a Remote Work Environment,” moderator, ACC NCR Career Development Program, May 11, 2022 “What’s Age Got to Do with It?,” moderator, ACC NCR Career Development Program, June 24, 2021 “Shifts & Transitions in Legal Careers,” moderator, Catholic University, Columbus School of Law presentation, January 28, 2021 “Overview of Washington, DC Legal Market & Changes in Light of Covid-19,” co-presenter, Catholic University, Columbus School of Law, August 12, 2020 “Amazing Women Who Lead,” moderator, ACC NCR Career Development Program, June 25, 2020 “Strategies to Increase Your Visibility and Raise Your Profile Inside Your Company and Beyond,” moderator, ACC NCR Career Development Program, December 4, 2019 “Behind the Scenes with In-House Antitrust counsel,” moderator, Women’s Antitrust Forum Program, December 13, 2018 “Overview of Washington, DC Legal Market,” co-presenter, Catholic University, Columbus School of Law, September 15, 2018 “Current State of the Legal Hiring Market and Compensation Trends,” panelist, ACC Baltimore Program, February 27, 2018 OUTSIDE THE OFFICE When not deep into a candidate search, in my free time I find it important to give back to the educational institutions that have had an important impact on my life and my children’s lives by volunteering, serving on their boards and committees, etc. I’m very involved with The Catholic University Columbus School of Law, Georgetown Preparatory School, University of Richmond, and St. Bartholomew Catholic School. On the home front, we’re always engaged in an enhancement or remodeling project, and honestly, I’m a great designer – I just have a knack for it and love doing it. I play golf and am active with my country club, and I entertain at home every chance I get – being a wine enthusiast helps with that. My favorite place in the world – where I go with my family every year to recharge – is Nantucket, MA. The island is simply magic for me. I have a husband, three wonderful children and an English Bulldog named Beauregard. TV and movies? It's got to be either a crime drama or a fantasy – my two favorite genres. What It's Like To Work With Me Overview Representative Placements Credentials and Past Experience Testimonials Insights and Speaking Outside the Office

  • Garrison Legal Search Firm | Top Legal Recruiters Washington, DC | Garrison Search

    Garrison is a top-tier, award-winning legal search firm with national clients and legal recruiters based in Washington, DC. Garrison quoted in Law360 Dan Binstock was quoted in "After Strong 2024 Growth, US Firms Face Looming Uncertainty," (Law360, 6/5/25). Garrison News and Media Thu Jun 05 2025 Garrison quoted in American Lawyer Amy Savage was quoted in "Former DOJ Civil Rights Lawyers Flooding D.C. Litigation Talent Market," (American Lawyer Online, 6/5/25). Garrison News and Media Thu Jun 05 2025 News and Insights Keep up with Garrison and the industry Get to know us. Having placed over 2,000 lawyers into permanent positions, we run our business with a complete mastery of the lateral attorney market. When working with us you can expect: Active listening and a deep understanding of your needs Collaboration Responsiveness Honesty and directness Accountability A combination of expertise and emotional intelligence No pressure Learn More High touch. High truth. High trust. A Washington, DC-headquartered legal search firm, Garrison's long track record of loyal clients across the country is a testament to how we've chosen to run our business. Our clients are the most discerning in the legal industry and demand what we offer: a recruiting team that invests the time to fully understand your goals and provide unparalleled market intelligence, insight and access. Recruiting Associates Recruiting Partners and Groups Recruiting In-House Counsel Employers Candidates In-House Associates Partners and Practice Groups Government to Law Firm Job Openings Minds behind the moves. Elite attorneys, law firms, and corporations align with Garrison because of our approach: a blend of intellectual rigor and emotional understanding. For decades, we've been entrusted with handling sophisticated lateral moves while serving as partners for employers and advocates for attorneys. Photo: Garrison Offices “[T]he highest levels of professionalism with good people you just want to be friends with” Director of Partner Recruiting, AmLaw 25 Firm 2000+ Attorneys placed 175 Law firms have hired our candidates 98.3% Of our candidates stay with their new employer for at least one year 75% Retention rate of partners after five years (industry average is 50%) 95% AmLaw firms in the DC region with which we've worked 100+ Corporations at which we have made placements Our Recruiters Reach out to our team: What clients are saying: After meeting with so many recruiters … finding Garrison was a breath of fresh air. Associate AmLaw 50 firm In an industry in which the majority of players are not known for playing above-board, I completely trust Garrison. Director of Legal Recruiting AmLaw 50 firm Chief Legal Officer and Chief Compliance Officer Private equity fund Clients get 110% from Garrison. They pay attention to your needs and won’t waste your time. Garrison gets a 10 out of 10 for professionalism, responsiveness, consistency and efficiency. Our Team For Candidates For Employers More By the Numbers

  • In-House Legal Recruiters in Washington, DC | Garrison Search

    Top-tier in-house legal recruiters in Washington, DC since 1986. Over 500 in-house placements in the DC region at all types of corporations. 2. A candid and experienced partner We are candid and will tell you if what you are trying to achieve with an in-house move is attainable in the current economic climate and what the impact of such a move has on your future career opportunities. We will share with you the experiences of similarly situated attorneys who have made analogous moves and how the compensation structures compare to other like-kind positions. < Back to For Candidates In-House For Candidates In-House Home Kaitlyn Hunter Bio Nancy Palermo Bio Key Contacts: 1. Credibility and access The relationships we have with our corporate clients in the DMV are longstanding and deep, and we frequently work with clients where we’ve made multiple placements. This longevity provides us with immediate credibility and excellent access. If we work with you and endorse your candidacy, this serves as independent verification of your cultural and experience fit. 5. Offer and acceptance assistance When you receive an offer, we negotiate on your behalf when warranted. We ask our clients the difficult or awkward questions you can’t or shouldn’t ask a potential employer. We know what and whom to ask and how to uncover information that is important to you. We also help you with unanticipated issues that can arise around acceptance, counter-offers, giving notice, start dates, and the like. 3. Confidentiality Confidentiality is an essential priority for us. We guard your reputation as we would our own. We also ensure our employer clients understand the importance of this. 6. Partners at every stage of your career It is common at Garrison for us to work with a lawyer at different points in their in-house career. We are the perfect partner and career advisor as you advance professionally because we understand the challenges and priorities that lawyers like you have at different stages of your in-house career. 4. Presenting you in the best light When Garrison contacts you about an in-house search, we do more than simply collect resumes and present you. We provide an extra level of personal touch and assistance that helps you put your best foot forward during the process. We have a deep understanding of what our in-house clients are seeking, and we provide expert input and advice on how to best prepare your materials to convey your experience. We also offer effective and personalized interview preparation to ensure you most effectively communicate your background, relevant skills and other intangibles for the particular position. 2. A candid and experienced partner 1. Credibility and access 5. Offer and acceptance assistance 3. Confidentiality 6. Partners at every stage of your career 4. Presenting you in the best light Kaitlyn Hunter Bio Nancy Palermo Bio Key Contacts: Over the past 35 years, Garrison has been a consistent leader when it comes to in-house placements in the DC, Maryland and Virginia region, and we offer access to a diverse range of opportunities at all experience levels. We work with a broad range of public and private companies (both industry leaders and start-ups) as well as non-profits and trade associations. Benefits of Working with Our In-House Division High touch. High truth. High trust. 500+ In-House Placements in Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia 100+ Corporations at which we have made placements 1986 Year we began recruiting attorneys 98.2% Of our candidates stay with their new employer for at least one year Our Recruiters Reach out to our team:

  • Lateral Partner Recruiters in Washington, DC | Garrison Search

    Garrison lateral partner recruiters in Washington, DC understand the most important ingredient for attracting a lateral partner. Contact us & let us help you. Representative placements Garrison places partners and practice groups in all practice areas. Below are some examples. Antitrust attorney (Chief-level) from the Criminal II Section, Department of Justice to an AmLaw 50 firm as partner in their antitrust practice group. Antitrust attorney (Chief-level) from the Department of Justice to the DC office of an AmLaw 15 firm as a partner in their antitrust practice group. Antitrust counseling and litigation practice group into the DC office of an AmLaw 50 firm. Antitrust partner (promotion from associate) from an AmLaw 50 firm to an AmLaw 50 global law firm. Antitrust practice group into the DC office of a New York firm to complement the firm’s existing antitrust counseling practice. Banking regulatory practice group into AmLaw 25 firm. Bankruptcy partner from a leading international law firm to a leading Magic Circle law firm. Capital markets partner (formerly in-house) into AmLaw 50 firm. Capital markets partner from the DC office of an international law firm to the DC office of an AmLaw 75 firm. CFIUS partner from an AmLaw 100 firm to head the CFIUS practice at an AmLaw 50 firm. Commercial litigation partner from a leading DC-based firm into an AmLaw 200 firm with litigation as its core strength and a more modest rate structure. Commercial litigation partner from the DC office of a global firm to the DC office of a large national firm. In prior firm, partner was head of the commercial litigation group in DC. Consumer finance/CFPB partner into AmLaw 50 firm. Corporate/finance partner into DC office of leading national firm to help grow firm's east-coast corporate/finance practice. Corporate (M&A) partner from an AmLaw 50 firm to another AmLaw 50 firm to lead its corporate practice. Corporate and securities, bank regulatory, and healthcare partners at a Southeastern-based, mid-sized firm seeking to establish a Washington office to complement its existing lobbying practice. Corporate partner from an AmLaw 100 firm to an AmLaw 200 firm to establish its corporate practice on the east coast. Corporate practice group from a UK-based firm into an AmLaw 100 firm to expand international capabilities within U.S. Energy/FERC partner from an AmLaw 50 firm to DC office of Northeast-based firm. Energy/FERC partner from Texas-based AmLaw 200 firm into Washington office of an AmLaw 50 firm to provide energy regulatory expertise in support of the firm’s projects practice. Energy/project finance (renewable) practice head into AmLaw 50 firm. Energy partner from an AmLaw 15 firm to a Texas-based firm with a growing office and energy practice in DC. Energy partner into regional firm to enhance its east-coast energy practice. Environmental/infrastructure regulatory and litigation practice from boutique firm into an AmLaw 10 global law firm. Export control partner from an AmLaw 100 firm to Washington, DC boutique. FDA partner from a full-service, AmLaw 100 firm into a specialized FDA boutique. Federal government department GC (former partner at a top-tier, DC-based firm) into an AmLaw 100 firm to create the firm’s privacy practice. Financial services enforcement/FinTech group into AmLaw 25 firm. Former Deputy Chief Trial Counsel from the Federal Trade Commission to an international AmLaw 100 firm as partner in their antitrust practice group. Government contracts practice group from an AmLaw 200 firm into an AmLaw 100 firm to co-lead and expand the firm’s existing government contracts practice. Government relations and regulatory affairs counsel from a Congressional committee into an AmLaw 100 firm’s existing political law practice. Healthcare/life sciences practice into AmLaw 100 firm. Healthcare regulatory and transactional attorney from mid-Atlantic regional firm to an AmLaw 100 firm. Healthcare transactional and regulatory practice in New York into the NY office of a mid-Atlantic firm. Immigration group from an AmLaw 15 firm to another AmLaw 15 firm. Insurance litigation practice with the DC office of an AmLaw 150 global firm. Intellectual Property/Internet Governance practice group into the DC office of an AmLaw 100 firm. Investment management/funds partner into AmLaw 50 firm. Investor-focused project finance practice group into an AmLaw 50 firm. IP/ITC litigation practice co-head from an AmLaw 100 patent litigation practice to another AmLaw 100 patent litigation practice. IP (337) litigation partner from leading IP litigation practice to an AmLaw 50 firm to create/chair its Section 337 practice. IP (patent litigation and prosecution) practice group into DC office of AmLaw 100 firm. IP appellate practice co-head from a litigation boutique to a prestigious patent boutique. IP litigation practice into east and west coast offices of AmLaw 50 firm. IP partner from an AmLaw 25 firm to an AmLaw 75 firm. IP practice group into a DC IP boutique. Large government contracts counseling and litigation group into the DC office of a global law firm. Litigation/appellate and commercial trial group into the DC office of a national law firm. Litigation partner from an AmLaw 100 firm to a DC-based litigation boutique. Litigation partner from an AmLaw 25 firm to the DC office of another AmLaw 25 firm. Patent litigation partner from an AmLaw 100 firm to DC office of an AmLaw 200 firm to enhance its intellectual property practice. Patent litigation practice from a litigation boutique to a prestigious patent boutique. Patent litigation practice group to co-head patent litigation practice at top-tier IP firm. Patent litigation practice into an AmLaw 50 firm. Patent partner from an AmLaw 100 firm into newly opened West Coast-based firm’s Washington, DC office to serve as firmwide co-head of patent prosecution practice. Patent prosecution practice from an AmLaw 100 firm to another AmLaw 100 firm. Political law practice from an AmLaw 25 firm to another AmLaw 25 firm. Privacy practice group from a Northeast-based AmLaw 200 firm to Midwest-based AmLaw 200 firm to establish and co-head practice. Privacy practice group into an AmLaw 100 firm to co-head global privacy practice. Private equity and transactional practice into the DC office of an AmLaw 50 firm. Products liability partner from an international trial and litigation firm to a DC-based litigation boutique. Project finance/energy partner into AmLaw 100 firm. Project finance practice group into the DC office of a UK firm to expand its agency-lender-focused project finance practice and enhance the firm’s international capabilities. Real estate counsel from AmLaw 50 firm to a suburban business and real estate firm as a partner. Real estate counsel from an AmLaw 50 firm to DC office of an AmLaw 200 firm as partner and head of real estate practice. Real estate partner into large AmLaw firm to help grow its national real estate practice. Real estate practice group into the DC office of an international law firm. Securities enforcement/white collar practice group into multiple offices of AmLaw 50 global firm. Securities regulatory partner from an AmLaw 50 firm into Washington, DC office of a Magic Circle firm. Structured finance practice group into the DC office of an AmLaw 15 global firm. Tax partner into the Washington office of another AmLaw 100 firm. Telecommunications regulatory and transactional practice into the DC office of an east coast-based firm. Transportation practice from an AmLaw 100 firm to a DC office of another AmLaw 100 firm with a nationally ranked transportation practice. White collar litigation and investigations practice into an AmLaw 50 firm. White-collar partner (formerly high-level in the DOJ Fraud Section) into an AmLaw 10 firm. Our results are superior Our track record in partner and group placements far outpaces the market. Our five-year retention record of placed partners is 75%, compared to the industry average of 50%. 1. What's beyond your biography We see you as a person beyond the breakdown of your practice and portable business. At the outset, we gain a substantive understanding of your practice that goes far beyond what’s in your biography. We also discuss your priorities and goals in depth and advise whether they are more likely to be achieved through a lateral move or by remaining with your current firm. < Back to For Candidates For Candidates Partners and Groups Home Erin Sears Bio Dan Binstock Bio Key Contacts: Amy K. Savage Bio 2. Thorough analysis of the market Based on our 30+ years of experience and market intelligence, we provide insight about law firms that is not generally accessible elsewhere. We study law firm economics, such as profit margins, multi-year trends and other factors that can be important when analyzing options. We also have a comprehensive suite of the most powerful tools in the industry, including our proprietary database where we have captured and analyzed years of market data. Our command of the market – from well-known firms to “hidden gems” – allows us to save you time by only presenting options that specifically align with your goals and priorities. Partners and Groups 5. Negotiating for your advantage At the outset, we help you place into context how your offer compares to other similarly situated partner candidates, whether negotiation is warranted and how to implement the most effective negotiation strategy to maximize your compensation. Many partners are excellent when negotiating for clients but fall short when negotiating on their own behalf. As your recruiter, our role in the process enables us to advocate for you more effectively. For example, it’s routine for recruiters to inform firms about competing offers, potential counter-offers, and other dynamics that are important but challenging for candidates themselves to convey appropriately. You benefit by having a skilled liaison during this delicate period, which often increases the strength of the offer itself and eliminates tensions with your potential future colleagues. 3. Preparing and presenting your materials We know what firms look for, what your materials should emphasize and how best to present your candidacy. Additionally, we are experts at carefully conveying detailed practice information and your reasons for contemplating a move, which ensures you are putting your best foot forward and avoiding pitfalls. When it’s time to go to market, we take confidentiality seriously and always discuss whether an anonymous approach to firms – at the outset – is advisable. And when we share your name and relevant materials, we ensure you are considered in the most appropriate manner by the most relevant partners. Oftentimes the point of entry can make an important difference in the outcome. 6. Providing notice This is perhaps the hardest part of the process. We strategize with you. We prepare you for what you can anticipate and how to best respond. If you receive a counter-offer, we provide advice and help you with any post-notice negotiations that may be appropriate. Lastly, we advise on whether to consider engaging ethics counsel given your bar obligations, fiduciary responsibilities and contractual provisions in your partnership agreement. And if needed, we have a strong network of experienced ethics attorneys to whom we can refer you. 4. Expert guidance on interviewing and due diligence Many partners haven’t interviewed in a long time. Even the most sophisticated partners approach interviews wearing their lawyer-practitioner hat instead of their lateral partner hat. In addition to detailed information on the firm and relevant partners, we provide guidance on the questions you can anticipate and how to best address them. We also save you time, minimize stress, and maximize confidentiality by coordinating and scheduling all of your interviews. Regarding due diligence, we assist you on all stages of completing the Lateral Partner Questionnaire (LPQ). Certain terms can be misinterpreted, and questions are often inadvertently narrow, leading candidates to omit vital practice information. We are experts on helping you answer these questions accurately and, when needed, with appropriate and necessary context. Most importantly, our guidance can help avoid misunderstandings and any uncomfortable discussions resulting therefrom. Our law firm clients frequently praise our candidates for the quality and comprehensiveness of their LPQs. And when you are seriously considering a firm and it’s time to dig deeper, we help you perform your own due diligence, providing extensive information on firms using tools not publicly available, as well as intelligence routinely received from our extensive and discreet personal network. 7. Guidance during the transition We are there for you throughout this process, including helping you recruit prior team members, if needed, and when appropriate and allowed. We will serve as a sounding board and source of advice regarding clients to help maximize the likelihood that they follow. No matter what arises, our partners feel better knowing they have a skilled advisor and confidante in their corner. Representative Placements 1. What's beyond your biography 2. Thorough analysis of the market 5. Negotiating for your advantage 3. Preparing and presenting materials 6. Providing notice 4. Expert guidance on interviewing 7. Guidance during the transition What clients are saying: Professional, personable, detail-oriented, prepared – that’s what you get with Garrison. Hiring Partner Top-tier litigation boutique Your help throughout the process was critical. There’s no way I would have actually made the move without you. Partner, Investment Management AmLaw 100 firm Office Managing Partner AmLaw 100 firm Garrison does three things better than any other firm: (1) They listen. (2) They observe and learn. They pick up information about the firm – what we’re about, our people, our practices -- without our telling them. And, (3) They’re honest. High touch. High truth. High trust. 2000+ Attorneys placed 175 Law firms have hired our candidates 98.3% Of our candidates stay with their new employer for at least one year 75% Retention rate of partners after five years (industry average is 50%) Our Recruiters Reach out to our team: Our Process and Track Record The partners we assist fall into two categories: You have decided that it’s time to move, or You’re not sure and could use some insight and guidance. Our goal: to help you make an intelligent decision regarding your choices, even if you decide not to move. We have a powerful, insightful command of the lateral market and can guide you through every step of this crucial decision with precision, discretion and professionalism Erin Sears Bio Dan Binstock Bio Key Contacts: Amy K. Savage Bio

Search Results

bottom of page