The Challenge
An Equity Partner at a major law firm approached us during a pivotal moment in her career. While she had achieved a high level of success, she had grown increasingly dissatisfied with certain aspects of her current firm. With her children nearing college graduation and more flexibility on the horizon, she wanted to use the next few high-earning years to set herself up for a strategic exit from BigLaw and a transition to a more purpose-driven chapter of life.
Evaluating Competing Offers
As a highly experienced Partner, she quickly drew serious interest from multiple firms. Two opportunities rose to the top, but she needed help determining which path aligned best with her financial goals. While compensation was important, she recognized that the structure of each offer could have a long-term impact on her financial flexibility and future plans.
We provided a detailed review of the financial and benefits-related elements of both offers. This included:
• Comparing partner capital contribution requirements
• Evaluating differences in retirement plan structure and vesting
• Reviewing the cash flow implications of each firm’s draw schedule
• Assessing the impact of firm-provided benefits on her personal insurance and savings strategies
• Identifying where negotiation might yield the most value
Highlighting a Critical Difference
One firm required a $250,000 capital contribution within the first 90 days of joining, while the other firm offered a lower capital contribution amount, payable over five years and deducted from the monthly partner draw. For this client, the upfront cash need was a key concern. She would have been forced to choose between liquidating investments or taking out a sizable loan—neither of which aligned with her goal of preserving liquidity and minimizing financial disruption at this stage of life.
Understanding this distinction allowed her to prioritize what mattered most: preserving flexibility, avoiding unnecessary debt, and maximizing the next few years of earnings.
A Confident Decision
Armed with clarity, the client was able to ask sharper questions, negotiate more effectively, and ultimately choose the opportunity that best supported her broader life and financial goals.
While compensation remains a central consideration in any career decision, this case highlighted how structure, timing, and tax implications can be just as important.
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