Some might argue that job dissatisfaction borders on being an occupational hazard of the legal profession. Although many lawyers are -- at one time or another -- unhappy in their jobs, fear of the unknown sometimes keeps them in one place. Also, many attorneys stay in their jobs because they're unclear as to when they're most marketable to other employers. Some lawyers think they're too junior for a lateral move; some think they're too senior and have missed the proverbial boat.

Fortunately, there are no blanket answers as to when it's too soon or too late to leave a job. In very general terms, it's probably a good idea to stay in your current job at least one year. You want to show potential employers that you're stable and committed and that you've gained some basic skills from each employer.

On the flip side, don't worry about having stayed at one job too long. In the legal profession, there's really no such thing as being "too experienced." Although you may be perilously close to partnership ranks -- sometimes a turnoff for potential employers who don't know enough about you to make you partner -- law firms these days offer attractive alternatives to partnership such as of counsel or non-equity partner positions.

Still, it's hard to know the job-switch timing that's right for your career. Here are some tips for figuring out whether now is an opportune time to leave your job.

First, objectively and logically assess current situation. What are your reasons for wanting to leave your job? Are you unhappy with the kind of work you're getting? Have you been told that you have a limited potential for advancement? Are you looking for more autonomy with clients? Get out a pen and paper and identify your concerns. Does your firm or company have a sub-par reputation? Are you dissatisfied with the quality of your clients, the work you're getting or your colleagues? Do you wish you were mentored more? Do you crave more responsibility? What is your work environment -- do the work styles and personality types mesh with your own?

Once you've answered these questions, realistically examine your job alternatives. Consider your current billable hours requirement and salary -- how likely are you to find something better? Importantly, look at the jobs your former colleagues got when they've left. Did they move on to bigger and better things or did they find something comparable, just different?

The notion of timing requires you to think far ahead to your ultimate career goal. Do you dream of starting your own firm? Becoming a judge? Going in house? All lawyers have to suffer some discomfort to get to where they ultimately want to go. To get there quicker, you should plot your interim steps. Your next job is all about positioning, something to consider when you evaluate timing.

In that vein, staying put should always be considered. You may be temporarily unhappy at your current job, but it may offer you what you need over the long term of your career. Observe senior colleagues as a guide about whether the situation will likely improve. If it's not yet the right time for a lateral move, consider what you can do to improve current situation -- maybe ask for different work or more client contact.

In analyzing your job situation, don't be passive. Your career deserves constant monitoring. And remember, deciding to interview isn't necessarily a decision to leave your job. If nothing else, it'll give you insight into your marketability and the optimal timing of a job change. Of course, if you're not positive you want to leave your job, be selective and discrete when interviewing.

Ultimately, the timing of each career move is unique. A first-year associate who has practiced law for six months may be invited to join an in-house legal department at a client. Alternatively, one law firm may snag a senior associate on the cusp of partnership at another firm. You never know. As always, trust your instincts and leave your options open.