Mahta Talani

First and foremost, if you’re here from last year, happy new year! If you’re new here, welcome! With 2026 well under way, I figured it was a good time to address one of the most common questions I get from associates: “Can I change practice areas and if yes, how do I do it?” You'll need to indulge me for while I make an X-Men Mystique analogy. Changing practice areas is a lot like shape shifting. And to be clear, the only reason Mystique is on my mind is because I watched far too much Heated...

To wrap up the Application Playbook Series  and the year, here is my final blog of 2025. I hope the final days of December 2025 treat you well. Happy holidays and happy new year! Lots more blogging to come in 2026.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Luka and I! I’ll get right into it: by the time you land an interview, the firm already thinks you can do the job on paper. The interview is about something else entirely. Fit, judgment, preparation, and whether you are someone they can...

The U.S. associate market in 2025, while holding steadier than 2024, is still nowhere near the 2021 hiring boom. We are seeing a more strategic approach to hiring, clear shifts in demand, and new expectations for associates at every level. And unfortunately, the strategic approach to hiring is making it very difficult for international associates looking to switch to the U.S. market. Below is a snapshot of some trends and expectations for next year. Key Trends in 2025 Demand is Steady but...