In a revealing new installment of Above the Law's series "The Rainmaker," Neal Katyal, a top Supreme Court attorney, demystifies the essence of building and sustaining a successful legal practice. Contrary to common perception, Katyal argues that the key to success in the highly competitive legal arena is not just individual brilliance but fostering a culture of collaboration and humility.

About two decades ago, Katyal emphasized the importance of teamwork over solitary prowess in a piece for Legal Times. His experiences since then, particularly in the Supreme Court, have only deepened his belief in the power of collective intelligence over individual argumentation. Katyal suggests that the true mark of a 'rainmaker' in law is the ability to enhance the collective smarts of the team rather than outshining them.

Drawing an unusual parallel between legal practice and improv comedy, Katyal credits the improv rule of "yes, and" with transforming his approach to law. This principle involves building on others' ideas and contributions, creating a supportive environment that encourages innovation and participation from all levels within a firm. This approach not only nurtures internal talent but also solidifies client relationships by actively addressing and integrating their concerns into strategic planning.

Katyal’s philosophy extends beyond handling high-profile cases; it is about understanding and aligning with clients' business needs and realities. He recounts an invaluable lesson from mentor Eric Holder, which taught him the importance of listening genuinely to others' concerns rather than pushing his own agenda. This client-centered mindset has led clients to stick with him through multiple cases, not merely for his legal acumen but for his commitment to their broader goals.

Beyond client relationships, Katyal emphasizes the importance of a collaborative internal environment. At Milbank, where Katyal leads a vibrant team, the focus is on making each member feel valued and heard. This culture not only attracts top talent but also encourages them to stay, contributing to a practice that thrives on shared success rather than individual ego.

Interestingly, Katyal points out that other law firms often bring his team into cases not as competitors but as collaborators, especially during critical appellate-like stages of litigation. This, according to Katyal, is due to his team’s reputation for enhancing rather than overshadowing client relationships established by other firms.

In conclusion, Neal Katyal’s career and his approach to legal practice underscore a pivotal shift from the traditional view of law as a domain of solitary heroes to one where success is a collective endeavor. He advocates for a legal industry where listening, humility, and cooperation are not just valued but are deemed essential for long-term success. His insights are a testament to the evolving dynamics of legal practice, reflecting a more inclusive, client-focused, and team-oriented approach.