Associate Story - Samir Mouawad

A Career Built to Last

Samir Mouawad has experienced the full spectrum of law firm life—starting at a small firm, moving to one of the largest global firms, and ultimately returning to Dykema. Through it all, he’s developed a unique perspective on what truly matters: finding professional fulfillment.

“There’s this idea that bigger law firms are better, that a massive platform, high rates, and global resources make a better lawyer. But, most law firms are very capable. It’s about having the ability to actually build something meaningful.”

The Big Law Mirage

Samir hesitated when a recruiter called with an opportunity at one of the world’s largest law firms. But amidst the uncertainties of a global pandemic, and with a growing family and a significant salary increase on the table, he decided to make the move.

“It felt like the responsible choice,” he recalls. “But within a year, I was on the phone with my old colleagues at Dykema saying, ‘The grass isn’t greener.’”

What he found at his new firm was an environment where associates were cogs in a massive machine. Associates were siloed, shielded from clients, and just grinding out hours. The message was clear, recalls Samir: “One of the partners literally told me: ‘Stop thinking of clients as people—think of them as paychecks.’ That was my wake-up call.” Samir couldn’t reconcile that approach with the kind of lawyer he wanted to be.

A Return to Relationships

The most significant difference Samir noticed was relationships—both with clients and colleagues.

“At Dykema, I can get to know my clients. I can pick up the phone, have a real conversation, and provide value without the ridiculous rates that drive clients away.” Even at an Am Law 50 firm, middle-market clients (the ones you’re trying to build on your own) won’t pay for a $1,000-an-hour associate. Here, he recognizes he can build authentic, sustainable client relationships.

It wasn’t just about clients, though. The internal culture played a huge role in his decision to return. Everything was transactional—including the relationships with colleagues. “At Dykema,” Samir notes, “we’re actually friends. We grab drinks, we genuinely ask after each other’s families, and we enjoy working together.”

Key relationships were pivotal in Samir’s return to Dykema. He shared, “Brendan Cahill was always supportive, even when I left. He understood why I made the move, but he also kept the door open for me to come back if the time was right Samir also recalls Brendan’s client-focused mindset: "Being a lawyer isn’t just about business; it’s a profession.” This wisdom resonated with Samir, and he wanted to embody it in his work. And, on a more personal level, Samir maintained contact with Igli Psari, who reminded him of what he had left behind and encouraged him to rethink his decision.

Mentorship and Growth—Without the Politics

Another key factor? Professional growth. In big law, career advancement often depends on cozying up to the right partner. “If you’re not in someone’s inner circle, you’re stuck, you’re not going anywhere,” Samir explains. Beyond that, you’re under someone else’s shadow for much longer; you’re beholden to the partners. “The meritocracy is out the window. You may get more money upfront, but in the long run, that money dries up quickly.”

At Dykema, things are different. “You’re encouraged to build your own book of business. The partners want you to succeed because they care about the future of the firm—not just their own client list.”

Additionally, Samir highlights that the hands-on experience that a young attorney gets is much better. He said, “I already knew more about deal structuring than many of my peers because of the experience I got at Dykema.”

More Than Just a Job

For Samir, the difference between Big Law and a firm like Dykema comes down to one key concept: sustainable career growth.

“At Dykema, I feel like I’m building something for myself. I have the support, the client access, and the freedom to create the career I want.”

And for those considering a move—Samir notes: “Think long term.” Money is important and, of course, necessary, but it’s not everything.” Consider happiness, professional growth, and the ability to actually enjoy what you do. “For me, coming back to Dykema wasn’t just a good career move—it was the right one.”