Boutique Legal Recruiting
Small Firm Values, Big Firm Results
Start a Confidential ConversationUnlike large, impersonal recruiting agencies, Dawson & Mercer is a boutique firm where every attorney gets direct access to a dedicated recruiter who understands your goals, your practice, and what matters most to you. We don't blast your resume to dozens of firms — we take the time to understand your story and identify the right opportunities, not just any opportunity.
We place individual attorneys and entire practice groups — from lateral partners looking for a better platform, to cohesive teams ready to make a strategic move together. Our deep market expertise means we understand the dynamics of group transitions and can negotiate arrangements that work for everyone involved.
Over 60% of our placements are for positions that are "pocket listings" — opportunities that are never publicly listed or advertised. That's the power of relationships built on trust.
The personal attention and market expertise that larger agencies simply can't offer
You're not a number in a database. Whether you're an individual attorney or part of a practice group exploring options together, you'll work with a dedicated recruiter who understands your aspirations and what truly matters.
We understand the sensitive nature of career moves in the legal profession. Your search is handled with absolute discretion — nothing moves without your explicit approval.
From litigation and corporate law to intellectual property and real estate, our team has hands-on experience across all major practice areas and understands the nuances that matter.
We specialize in managing the complexity of practice group moves — coordinating multiple attorneys, negotiating unified terms, and ensuring a seamless transition that preserves team cohesion and client relationships.
While boutique in our approach, our network spans all 50 states. We place individual attorneys and practice groups in major legal markets as well as emerging hubs across the country.
We're not just trying to fill a position. We invest in understanding your long-term career goals and become a trusted advisor you can rely on for years to come.
Individual laterals, practice groups, and in-house counsel across all major areas of law
Placing attorneys and practice groups in top legal markets across the country
Don't see your market? We place attorneys in all 50 states. Get in touch and we'll discuss opportunities in your area.
Hear from professionals who experienced the boutique difference
I asked around and colleagues had positive things to say. The first time we spoke, there wasn't anything worth pursuing. About six months later, they called with an opportunity I would be interested in. I've now been in that role for almost 3 years and I'm very happy!
Washington, DC
I receive calls from recruiters all the time, and I'm glad I took the time to speak with them. It was more like having a discussion about the business of law and identifying the right opportunities for me. My recruiter offered valuable insight and became more like a trusted friend than a recruiter.
New York, NY
I got 4 introductions and 4 offers. I ended up with a $125,000 higher base salary plus equity! The personal attention I received made all the difference.
Chicago, IL
Whether you're looking for something in the immediate future or want to discuss long-term strategic goals, we're here to help.
We've received your information and one of our recruiters will reach out to you personally within 1-2 business days. We look forward to learning more about your career goals.
Dawson & Mercer is a boutique legal recruiting firm built on the belief that every attorney — and every practice group — deserves personal, thoughtful career guidance, not a transactional experience. We work closely with candidates, teams, and firms to ensure every placement is a strong, lasting match.
Our small, experienced team brings years of deep legal industry knowledge. Whether we're placing an individual lateral or coordinating a multi-attorney group transition, we understand the nuances of practice areas, firm culture, and career development that matter most.
Learn More About Our Team