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By Christine Simmons

The lateral market has become a brutal winner-takes-all competition, with elite firms systematically raiding their peers for the best talent. Major, Lindsey & Africa's Jon Lindsey warns "there are no safe havens" as firms with the resources to pursue top talent show no signs of stopping. The numbers tell the story: 54% of firms see lateral hiring as their main growth engine this year, and with some AmLaw 50 firms growing demand at twice the market rate, they have more money to attract "needle-moving people and teams." The result? A contracting winners circle where only firms with "proven success in the most desirable and synergistic practices" can compete for the top echelon of lateral talent.