When does what a "retained" recruiter do for you cross over from head-hunting to quasi-management consulting?  (Think:  Acquiring a practice group or moving into a new city.)

And what about the trend towards more and more professionalization of firm management?

"With respect to the law firm trend of hiring COOs, I consider that an unequivocally positive development. COOs are driven by accomplishing strategic goals. They're not trying to manage a full-time law practice."

And should these COOs be lawyers by training? "Many times a lawyer who has practiced but is now managing is the absolute best person to professionalize the management because they understand the business so well." Read more here.