Like a unicorn in the wild, we have here something I never thought I’d see while working for Above the Law: a lawyer who is happy with his job. Okay, sure, this lawyer is on his way out of the firm he spent over a decade slaving away at, but he seems genuinely sad to go. Perhaps it is all the adrenaline left over from handing in his notice, but on this cold Friday morning I choose to see it as a sign. A sign that beyond all the drudgery and long hours, some people really enjoy their life in a law firm. Sure, I’ve only read about those people online, and never met one in person, but this departure memo gives me hope that it is real.
We received the email below from an attorney heading out of the door. Littered with graphics and memes, it shows law firms don’t have to be the place where humor goes to die. So while you’re busy fantasizing about your exit from your firm (flame on!), this is a nice reminder that is it possible to leave with grace and the last laugh. Enjoy!
From:
Date: Thu, Mar 3, 2016 at 3:38 PM
Subject: A Lawyer Wrote A Farewell Email To His Colleagues. You Won’t Believe How He Does It
To:
Cc:
When I received an offer 11 years ago to be a summer clerk at Bracewell (& Patterson), I had no idea it would become such a large part of my life…
…which has made today, my last at the firm, bittersweet.
Skills That Set Firms Apart
Legal expertise alone isn’t enough. Today’s most successful firms invest in developing the skills that drive collaboration, leadership, and business growth. Our on-demand, customizable training modules deliver practical, high-impact learning for attorneys and staff—when and where they need it.
Although I will miss working with each of you, I am looking forward to the challenge of starting a new phase of my career as a partner at Wick Phillips. 
But before I go, I want to take a moment to thank you…
First, to Special Services for your tireless behind-the-scenes support. Enormous print jobs, late-day rush requests, and my annual Christmas avalanche of Amazon packages – nothing seems to faze you.
To all the admins, assistants, paralegals, and staff: thank you for making us look like competent lawyers…even when we don’t make it easy for you. We would not be nearly as successful without your support.
And finally, to my fellow attorneys, thank you for educating me through your example that being a good person is essential to being a great lawyer. Bracewell has been a collaborative (and fun) place to learn how to practice law.
I wish all of you the absolute best. My contact information is included in the attached vCard. Save it. Use it. Stay in touch.
(tl;dr – Last day, thanks)