The 2026 National Association of Legal Search Consultants (NALSC) just held their annual conference in New Orleans. We love to attend this largest gathering of legal recruiters in the country. This year was no different, and not just because they’re a fun, smart group or that some of us (we won’t name names) are seriously pushing for an office in NOLA just because some of us (we won’t name names) love NOLA so much. Meeting up with these colleagues always gives us real-time insights into the ever-evolving legal industry and allows us to share ideas with the best in the business. On that note, I’d like to share with you my key takeaways from 2026 NALSC.
1. Technology (AI) was on everybody’s mind
Technology worked its way into many conversations – particularly in a panel discussion about rapidly changing landscapes in the legal industry, because of AI. Practus’ Chief Innovation & Strategy Officer participated in that panel. We learned profit per lawyer for all law firms is up 39% since 2019 (53.7% for Big Law, 25.5% for Midsize), but that AI is doing a lot of the work that associates used to cut their teeth on right out of law school. This shift will impact billable hours, alternative fee agreements, and reshape recruiting priorities.
You can read Val’s whole blog on the matter here:
2. OK, Boomer (and Gen X and Millennials) – Time to welcome Gen Z
Gen Z is out of college and working, and yeah – lawyers! This means any workplace could potentially have four generations attending a Teams meeting, working on a project, or gathering at the water cooler! Author Chris DeSantis talked about these generation gaps and pointed out that between these gaps lie not just challenges, but opportunities. It was a great reminder that all organizations need to be asking themselves what they need to do to meet our newest generation of workers, embrace them, and retain them.
3. Got Two Minutes? Move it!
Wellness is always a hot topic at NALSC. One of the most interesting sessions hosted by Ava Diamond Dreyer talked about the importance of taking a movement break for every two hours of focused mental work. It may sound like you’re just interrupting your workflow, but the truth is, two minutes of intentional movement every two hours of brain time – turbo charges your ability to focus. Now get moving!
4. Relationships are key, because career transitions can be hard
It doesn’t matter what NALSC event you attend. The common thread running through every conference is connection and community. We know that attorneys who join Practus come because of a relationship and trust that has been established, maybe before they’ve even heard of Practus. Recruiters are often the first face an attorney sees in their career transition; the first relationship they build. They build the steps to help attorneys reach us where we can bring them into our community.
We’re so grateful for NALSC and the relationships we’ve made plus the support of this special community. Executive Director Stephanie Ankus and her team put on an amazing event, and Practus was proud to be a gold sponsor. What’d you say we do this again next year?
