Southeast Legal Search represents the region's most successful firms, partners and practice groups that are considering new platforms and opportunities. Responsible for mergers and acquisitions at the firm where she was formerly a practicing attorney, Liza Purcell, now SLS's managing principal, provides candidates with a personal due diligence approach that includes discreet access to key decision makers and critical, in-depth information about the top firms you are considering. These are essential pieces of the puzzle when evaluating a lateral move.

We have a deep and comprehensive knowledge of the industry and the firms that should be on your radar screen. Most importantly, we can provide you with access to key decision makers at the firms you choose to explore, and we'll be a fierce advocate for you during every step of the process- from initial inquiry all the way through offer and acceptance.

Typically, we'll first make an anonymous inquiry to a firm, or list of firms, on your behalf. The next step is to gauge the level of interest expressed by one or more firms before you decide to pursue the opportunity further. This not only protects your position at your current firm, but also protects your identity should you decide not to pursue a particular firm.

Discretion and confidentiality are the cornerstones of a search firm’s reputation, and that's the foundation on which we've built our business principles and practices. Working with a professional search consultant ensures that you get an unbiased analysis of the market that's both comprehensive and thorough. We know the questions you should be asking at every step of the due diligence process - from rate and client compatibility to the firm’s debt and partnership structure.

Liza Purcell and Southeast Legal Search distinguish themselves from others in the profession by providing timely information, access and counsel on the most sensitive topics associated with lateral moves. You'll get advice and guidance based on our years of experience with key issues such as fiduciary duties, partnership compensation and firm debt.

The legal landscape has changed dramatically over the past few years, and the depth and breadth of due diligence a partner must execute when contemplating a lateral move has changed with it. Knowledgeable, focused, exceptional representation is more critical to the process than ever before.