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Lauren Smith, Senior Partner at CenterPeak, highlights a notable shift in the legal recruiting landscape where high-level government attorneys are increasingly joining boutique firms rather than Big Law. She noted that some lateral candidates are specifically avoiding firms that have aligned with certain administration policies, making boutiques an attractive option for those seeking alignment with their values. Smith acknowledges that while established D.C. boutiques have long thrived in the market, it remains to be seen how these newer boutiques will sustain their momentum and impact the competitive landscape.