Associate search

Launched in 2010, the associate division of MRA Search has since grown to a team of 10 consultants. Together, we place associate lawyers of all levels into leading US and UK law firms.

We are also supported by dedicated trainee consultants to source the best candidates.

Who we are

Our consultants come from a variety of professional backgrounds including trained and qualified lawyers. Together, we have the experience and wealth of industry knowledge, enabling us to advise associates on their next move and to assist law firms with their recruitment needs.

Our associate division is divided into two specific teams: one dedicated to US law firms and the other to UK law firms.

US Private Practice team

Our US practice team has five dedicated consultants focusing on vacancies and searches for US law firm clients. We work with a range of prestigious US firms in London and we are instructed on roles across all practice areas, from newly qualified to senior associate levels.

We adopt a model whereby there is one dedicated point of contact for each of our clients, but our consultants work collaboratively together on all searches. We are also instructed on exclusive searches because of our successful track record in placing associates with these firms.

UK Private Practice team

Our UK practice team is made up of five consultants and we focus on a range of positions for leading UK headquartered firms in London and regionally. This includes magic circle and silver circle firms, leading international firms, mid-tier and mid-town firms and West-End and boutique firms.

We adopt the same model as the US team, our clients having one dedicated point of contact, whilst benefitting from the combined experience of an extended team of consultants. We work with our clients on vacancies across all practice areas, and we place associates at all levels, from newly qualified lawyers through to senior associate and counsel level.

What we do

We have access to an extensive network of lawyers in London and internationally. We work across all practice areas and are able to source relevant candidates depending on the practice area and PQE level for our clients' needs.

Find a consultant

How we do it

We have ongoing relationships with associates, who we regularly update about the market and new roles. We will reach out to this existing network, while also proactively searching for and contacting other suitable candidates.

Once we have a shortlist of candidates, we fully brief them on the role, review their CVs, make applications on their behalf and ensure they are prepared for any interviews.

We manage the entire process, from scheduling interviews and providing feedback from both sides, negotiating and presenting offers, through to advising candidates on resignation from their current firm and agreeing on a start date.

Roles we recruit for:

Across all practice areas, for top US and UK law firms
Associate lawyers of all levels, from NQ through to senior associates
We are currently split between carrying out 80% contingent searches and 20% retained searches

London

Lucy understood my motivations for moving firms and what I wanted from my new firm. She tailored her search accordingly and supported me through the recruitment process. A refreshing approach compared with other recruiters in the legal sector.

Associate

Construction, City Firm

Of the many recruiters who reached out to me prior to qualification, Kate was one of the only ones who was direct and cut straight to the chase (which was much appreciated given the workload I was under). She only reached out with relevant roles and was incredibly helpful before, during and after the interview process, giving me constant updates and feedback. She helped me find my dream NQ position, for which I am very grateful.

Junior Associate

US Firm

Tariq helped me to move firms as a junior associate. He is a fantastic person to have on your side. He's good at identifying suitable opportunities, provides useful guidance on the application process and has a deep knowledge of the London lateral hire market at associate level. Tariq is proactive and focused, but without being overbearing. He's a pleasure to deal with and I'd recommend him to any associate considering a lateral move.

Junior Associate

UK Firm

Lucy helped me find and get a role that I was really interested in, and she was excellent in her communication and organisation surrounding the recruitment process.

Associate

Real Estate, City Firm

How can we help ?

We have a dedicated team ready to work with you to find the best solution for your recruitment needs.

Once this form is submitted one of our colleagues will review and get in touch to discuss further.