How I Made Partner: 'Be Responsive, Hardworking and Willing to Advance Client Issues,' Says Austin Harrison of Squire Patton Boggs

How I Made Partner: ‘Be Responsive, Hardworking and Willing to Advance Client Issues,’ Says Austin Harrison of Squire Patton Boggs

In the competitive world of Big Law, making partner requires more than just legal acumen—it’s about building trust, seizing opportunities, and navigating the intersection of policy and practice. Austin Harrison, a newly promoted partner in Squire Patton Boggs’ Public Policy Practice, embodies this blend, drawing from his Capitol Hill roots and international experience to advise clients on regulatory hurdles. In an exclusive interview, Harrison shares his journey to partnership, offering timeless advice for aspiring attorneys: “Be responsive, hardworking, and willing to advance client issues.”

Harrison’s Path to Partnership: From Capitol Hill to Squire Patton Boggs

Austin Harrison’s career trajectory reads like a blueprint for success in public policy law. A graduate of the University of Mississippi’s Trent Lott Leadership Institute with a BA in public policy leadership, Harrison honed his skills through international studies in Ecuador, South Africa, and South Korea. He then served in Washington, D.C., as an intern for U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS) and U.S. Rep. Gregg Harper (R-MS), gaining firsthand insight into legislative processes.

Pursuing dual degrees—a Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s William H. Bowen School of Law and a Master of Public Service from the Clinton School of Public Service—Harrison interned at the U.S. Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia, focusing on international trade, EU policy, and energy law. This experience led to a comprehensive analysis of Brexit during his final year. Upon graduation in 2016, he joined Squire Patton Boggs as an associate in the Public Policy Practice, quickly establishing himself as a go-to advisor for regulatory and procurement matters.

Harrison’s promotion to partner, announced on February 23, 2025, as part of Squire Patton Boggs’ global promotions, recognizes his expertise in navigating state and federal policy landscapes. Based in Atlanta with a presence in Washington, D.C., he helps clients—from national associations to family-owned businesses—secure federal funding, comply with regulations, and advance interests on Capitol Hill and in state capitals. His practice spans energy, environment, transportation, agriculture, and emerging areas like cannabis and hemp.

“Partnership at Squire Patton Boggs is about more than billable hours; it’s about delivering results that matter,” Harrison says. His work includes counseling on public-private partnerships, land use, infrastructure, and administrative law, leveraging the firm’s global platform to bridge law and policy.

Key Advice for Aspiring Partners: Responsiveness, Hard Work, and Client Advocacy

Harrison’s mantra for success—”Be responsive, hardworking, and willing to advance client issues”—stems from lessons learned across his roles. “In public policy, clients face urgent regulatory deadlines and shifting political winds,” he explains. “Being responsive means anticipating needs, not just reacting. Hard work builds the relationships that turn one-off matters into long-term partnerships. And advancing client issues requires creativity—whether it’s identifying funding opportunities or navigating agency actions.”

He credits his Clinton School experience for teaching teamwork: “There’s power in collaboration. At Squire Patton Boggs, we’ve built a bench of experts, and leaning on that network has been key to my growth.” Harrison also emphasizes international exposure: His Croatia internship informed early assignments, like representing Croatian interests at the U.N. Security Council.

For junior attorneys, Harrison advises focusing on substance over flash. “Understand the policy behind the law—it’s what differentiates you in a firm like ours, where we operate at the intersection of business and government.” He highlights the firm’s merit-based system, where promotions reward contributions to client success and firm culture.

Harrison’s Career Milestones

This path underscores Harrison’s blend of legal rigor and policy savvy, making him a model for rising stars.

Expert Insights and Firm Culture at Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs’ chair and global CEO, Mark Ruehlmann, praised the 2025 promotions: “These talented individuals represent our diverse platform and commitment to excellence.” The firm, with over 1,500 lawyers across 40 offices in 20 countries, emphasizes merit pay and inclusivity, boasting a Mansfield Rule certification for diversity in hiring.

Experts in legal recruitment note Harrison’s trajectory as exemplary. “Public policy roles demand versatility—Harrison’s congressional and international background set him apart,” says a recruiter from Major, Lindsey & Africa. The firm’s focus on DEI, with over three dozen diverse leaders, aligns with Harrison’s collaborative ethos.

Public reactions on LinkedIn and X celebrate his achievement, with peers commenting, “Well-deserved—your work on federal funding has been game-changing.” Harrison’s profile, with 500+ connections, reflects his network-building prowess.

Implications for U.S. Legal Professionals: Career Growth and Policy Impact

For aspiring U.S. lawyers, Harrison’s story highlights opportunities in public policy amid a $1.24 billion firm like Squire Patton Boggs. Economically, roles in regulatory advocacy support industries like energy and infrastructure, contributing to $2.3 trillion in annual legal services. Politically, with 2026 midterms approaching, expertise in appropriations and agency actions is invaluable for bipartisan work.

Lifestyle-wise, Harrison’s dual-degree path offers work-life balance tips: “Balance international exposure with practical clerkships.” Technologically, firms like Squire Patton use AI for policy analysis, enhancing efficiency. In sports and entertainment, similar advocacy skills apply to NIL deals or media regulations, broadening career paths.

Conclusion: Lessons from Harrison’s Rise

Austin Harrison’s promotion at Squire Patton Boggs exemplifies the rewards of responsiveness, hard work, and client-focused advocacy in public policy law. From Capitol Hill intern to partner, his journey inspires with practical wisdom for navigating Big Law’s demands.

As the firm eyes continued growth, Harrison’s advice remains timeless: Advance client issues with integrity. For U.S. attorneys, emulating his path could unlock doors in a dynamic field—start by building networks and embracing policy’s power.