Go-to partner is moving to another firm

My go-to partner just touched base with me today to let me know that he’s been courted by another big law firm with a more robust practice group in our practice area. He’s lateraling to this other firm at the end of the month.

This partner:

• Has my best and favorite clients.
• The most interesting practice of the partners I work with.
• Gives me the most work of any partner.
• Has championed my progress in the firm since my first year.
• Provided the most mentorship of any partner.

I don’t think he’s directly allowed to try and recruit me, but he hinted that there may be lateral opportunities and that he wanted to stay in touch after he leaves.

Has anyone else had this happen? This was all very unexpected and I’m not sure what to do. I’m definitely concerned that my go-to partner is leaving, particularly since he is a major source of my hours. What do I do now?

ETA: I’m a fourth year associate. Also additional question is whether it’s appropriate to ask the remaining partners about how they think my plate can be filled without this partner (with more decorum, of course)?

Author: CinemaBud