Thanks for all the replies. It remains to be seen how more lucrative the small firm would be. I think that is for the next round of conversations. I know that the associates in the firm earn approximately according to the GS schedule for fed attorneys. I assume, but could be wrong that profit sharing would make it much more lucrative.

The PP who mentioned that I better like the other partners makes a good point. I'll have to consider that. I know I have a good deal and a great work/life balance. But I just cannot see myself doing this for another 20 years.

I've also considered this, but when looking into it closely, I'd be working more and when you factor in the extra saving I'd have to do to make up for the lost pension, making less.

Are you fed? Salary? Prospective salary at small firm?

better like your partners, be ok with the lease (location and rent and term), look at the books (any debt, how do they fund operations at the start of the year), what is the buy-in, are the key players getting older (what happens if any get hit by a bus), etc.

I prefer small firms to bigger firms, having done both. Less stress, less work and you can often make more money (i.e., non-equity at big law compared to equity at regional law).

What's your practice area? How's your rainmaking potential, assuming that's something you'll need to worry about? What change in your work/life balance are you looking at?

I started my career in a small law firm in DC. Twelve years ago, I moved into government. Now that my kids are older, I am considering moving back to a firm, possibly as partner. I am already in discussions with a few firms. I know I have a great gig in government and that I would be giving up the pension. But I'm bored.

Has anybody made this move? Also, does anybody have any insights into the logistics of joining a small firm (20-30 total attorneys) later in your career?