Capital Markets Associate Joins AmLaw 25 in Palo Alto with M&A Growth Focus

Candidate: Capital Markets Associate  

Level: Class of 2022

Move: AmLaw 40 to AmLaw 25 Firm  

Location: Palo Alto  

‍

The Background:

This candidate first connected with our Los Angeles legal recruiter, Cole Evarts, and shared concerns that her partner’s practice was boxing her in. She felt constrained by the group’s narrow focus and had also begun to pick up on quiet concerns about the firm’s long-term growth trajectory. From the outset, she was clear on her goals: to work on large-cap public offerings, with the opportunity to broaden into M&A over time.

‍

The Journey:

Thanks to strong relationships with leading firms in Palo Alto, Cole quickly identified an AmLaw 25 firm where the right partner could offer exactly that career trajectory. Throughout the process, the candidate did her own due diligence—speaking with both a current and former associate. Those conversations aligned with everything Cole had shared, reinforcing her trust in his guidance and the strength of the match.

The interview was a mix of technical and interpersonal. She walked the team through a deal with clarity and confidence—but what left a lasting impression was how she turned the conversation toward the people behind the practice. She asked about the partners as individuals, building authentic connection from the start.

‍

The Outcome:

She received an offer and accepted within days. Afterward, she shared that working with Cole made the process feel "easy, enjoyable, honest, and seamless."

And the feeling was mutual. One of the hiring partners told Cole: “You made my week.”

This wasn’t a pressured placement—it was a thoughtful, well-matched move based on trust, clarity, and long-term fit.

‍

Recruiter Insights:

"What made this so rewarding wasn’t just the outcome—it was knowing I helped set her up for a career she’s genuinely excited about, alongside people who share her values and approach to practice. The partners she joined are just as invested in associate development as she is in building her practice. That kind of alignment is rare, and it’s exactly why I do what I do. Anyone who gets to work hard and play hard is winning in my book." - Cole Evarts (LA Legal Recruiter)

‍

Looking for your next big move?  

If you're considering new opportunities, let us help you take the next step. Reach out for a confidential discussion today.

‍