When an attorney receives a notice of termination, it can be both psychologically and financially devastating. Some are so overwhelmed by this news that they deny their reality rather than take the steps necessary to secure suitable future employment.

This state of denial can be so profound that they may go as far as to convince themselves that their termination notice was only a warning.  They can continue to mire themselves in work for the firm that has just terminated them to reaffirm their professional competence and ignore their top priority of searching for and securing a new position.

Overwhelmed by feelings of fear and shame and confused about what to do next, terminated attorneys can become paralyzed or “stuck.”   

If ever you find yourself in this unfortunate position, here are some tips for moving ahead:

·      Put yourself first.

·      Gather references now from trusted allies. Don’t worry about partners who are still expecting stellar work from you. They have their own agendas, which possibly do not include your future employment. Your number one job is to find a new one. Billable hours for a firm that has terminated you should no longer be your priority.

·      Do not be afraid to turn away work, because you want a good reference. Most law firms tell their partners to try not to give demanding assignments to their departing attorneys. Your firm’s human resources officer will tell you your first priority will be to find a new job. Nevertheless, some partners continue to give you work because they need the help. Furthermore, they may not realize the drain on your time. If you cannot look for a job because you are continuing to do work for your firm, speak up. If you think that your firm is going to ask you back, think twice. That rarely happens. It may give you additional time before you have to leave, but that will depend on your firm and the particular circumstances.

·      If you are given a “soft date” instead of a “hard date” by which you must leave, don’t wait - start looking immediately. Your “drop dead” departure date will come eventually. Give yourself ample time while you have it.

·      Analyze your own thoughts and feeling about your termination. Are you upset? Depressed? Embarrassed? Stuck in slow motion? While these feeling are very real, find someone to speak with who can help validate them, like a friend, partner, or psychological professional. However, never let yourself get swallowed into this process. There is a prize at the end of your journey and that prize is to secure a new position. Don’t ever lose sight of it.