You’ve made it through rounds of interviews. You’ve impressed hiring managers, navigated the reference checks, and now—it’s official. The offer is in hand.
First, congratulations.
But before you hit “Reply All” with an enthusiastic “yes,” take a moment to pause.
Accepting a new legal role—whether at a law firm, in-house legal department, or nonprofit—is more than a formality. It’s the first move in what could become a defining chapter in your legal career. The way you handle this moment sets the tone for your transition, your reputation, and even your early credibility in this new career trajectory.
Here are six strategies to help you accept your next legal opportunity with confidence, clarity, and strategic foresight.
- Know What You’re Signing Up For
Focusing on the headline number is tempting, but seasoned legal professionals know that the salary is just one piece of the puzzle. Before you accept, take time to understand:
- Your title and reporting line – Do you understand who you’ll be working with and learning from?
- The scope of responsibilities – Are you being hired for a narrow legal lane, or a broad business-facing role?
- Bonus structure, equity, or long-term incentives—Equity and deferred compensation can significantly change the picture, especially in-house.
- Hybrid or in-office expectations – Do the logistics align with your lifestyle and long-term goals?
- Start date and contingencies – Are there background checks, board approvals, or relocation considerations?
Clarity now prevents surprises later. Ask for help if you have any questions about the compensation structure/s.
- Don’t Skip the Negotiation Window
Once the offer is made—but before you accept—is the most strategic moment you’ll have in the employment relationship. Use it wisely.
This doesn’t mean making unreasonable demands. It means asking thoughtful, informed questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the market:
- Is the compensation aligned with current benchmarks for your level and sector?
- Can the organization support a signing bonus, relocation assistance, or transition time?
- How is success measured in this role? What does growth look like one year in?
Even if the offer is already generous, you have one opportunity to confirm the foundation is solid. You don’t get to renegotiate in month six because you learned something new about how bonuses work.
- Accept with Clarity and Gratitude
When you’re ready to say yes, do it with professionalism—and heart.
- Confirm your acceptance in writing.
- Thank the decision-makers for their time and advocacy
- Acknowledge any flexibility or accommodations they made
General Counsels, Partners, and executive teams often go to bat behind the scenes to make your hire happen. Recognizing that effort—early—goes a long way in building goodwill.
- Exit Gracefully
If you’re currently employed, how you leave is just as important as where you’re going.
- Resign professionally and discreetly. Don’t resign by email. In person is best. If, however, you’re working remotely, schedule a video call.
- Offer to support the transition. A transition “memo” addressing the legal matters, their status, and due date will help document the transition. (We have several examples)
- If presented with a counteroffer, take it as a compliment—but rarely as a reason to stay.
Most legal professionals who accept counteroffers return to the market within a year. Why? The deeper issues that prompted the search often remain unresolved, or the company has frozen them out of the inner circle.
- Start Strong
Your first 30–90 days set the tone for your next career chapter. Start with humility, but also with intention.
- Listen before leading. Scheduling one-on-one meetings and asking for input is one strategy for demonstrating your adaptability and building trust.
- Learn the culture as much as the business. What is the informal decision-making process?
- Build trust early, especially with cross-functional partners. Can you deliver on some low-lying needs to demonstrate responsiveness and build trust?
You were hired to elevate the team and steward the institution’s legal and ethical obligations. Show up like the leader they selected.
Final Thought: This Is a Defining Moment
Saying “yes” to a new legal role is a decision that carries weight. Make it with intentionality. Accept the offer not because it’s flattering or convenient—but because it aligns with your values, goals, and next leadership level.
Say “yes” for the right reasons. Say “thank you” like you mean it. And begin the role with the same confidence, clarity, and integrity that earned you the offer in the first place.
