Careers

Lateral FAQs

The lateral hiring process can be time-intensive and overwhelming, made more so by the fact that procedures may vary greatly among firms. To ease any added stress and help to make your experience with Alston & Bird a good one, we have supplied the answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive from lateral candidates.

• What materials do I need to submit to apply for a position with Alston & Bird?
  
  Please submit a cover letter, resume and transcript to the Attorney Hiring contact in the office to which you are applying.
  
  
• How does the interview process work for experienced attorneys?
  
  Depending on the position, the process typically begins with a screening interview between you and one or two attorneys in the practice group to which you are applying. If there is continued interest on both sides, you are then invited to our offices for a full-round of interviews.
  
  
• Will the firm reimburse me for interview related expenses?
  
  The firm will cover travel expenses for out-of-town candidates who are required to travel for a full-round interview. In some of our offices, the interview will include dinner the night before. Your spouse or significant other is invited to travel with you at our expense.
  
  
• What is Alston & Bird’s relocation policy?
  
  In order to assist with relocation, the firm has a formal policy on reimbursing lateral hires for reasonable documented moving expenses to transfer personal household items from the previous residence to the city in which the attorney will practice. We maintain relationships with reputable moving companies who have direct billing arrangements with the firm.
  
  
• Will the firm reimburse for fees related to becoming a member of the local Bar?
  
  Yes, all attorneys resident in one of our offices must be a member of the Bar jurisdiction in which he/she will be practicing. Steps to becoming admitted to the local Bar must be taken at the earliest possible time. Alston & Bird will pay for expenses related to the bar examination preparation course, bar examination fee or costs associated with being waived in to the jurisdiction. Lateral hires will also be given paid time off for two weeks prior to the exam and the week of the exam. The time off is not considered as vacation time.