In today’s episode, I dive into the complex dynamics of self-advocacy inside Big Law firms—especially when you know stepping up may trigger pushback or quietly harm your reputation. I talk about what it really feels like to raise your hand in an environment where power dynamics are murky, and how to do it strategically so you're not sidelined for asking for what you've earned.

Whether you’ve been burned in the past or you’re simply unsure how to assert yourself without risk, I break down practical ways to navigate firm politics, advocate for your own advancement, and shift how you're seen by the decision-makers at your firm.

You'll hear real-world examples from my coaching clients, including how one partner successfully challenged a toxic situation by staying grounded in facts—not emotion—and how to use smaller, safer forums to build visibility before taking bigger swings.

At a Glance:
00:00 Introduction and the real challenge of self-advocacy inside Big Law
01:20 Why internal negotiation feels riskier than client advocacy
02:12 The hidden rules of the sandbox—and how fear shapes behavior
03:12 How law firm culture discourages asking for more
04:00 Imposter syndrome and unclear rules for advancement
05:10 Why some partners turn cold—and how that shift derails careers
06:01 A mindset reframe to engage power players strategically
07:06 A junior partner’s story: pushing through abuse to win a major pitch
09:07 How to build influence through low-risk contributions
10:14 Why tone and timing matter more than content in firm-wide conversations
10:35 How to read your firm’s sandbox like a strategist
11:30 What to do when you’ve been cut out or undermined
12:43 Gut-checking your fears vs. firm realities
13:45 Advocacy isn’t selfish—it’s part of owning your career
14:26 How to show up consistently and shape your firm’s future

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.

For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast here!

For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars.

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting?

Here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

laura@lauraterrell.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast