I have to agree with you, attorneys brief advocates based on their competence and their ability to fight a matter before a judge.
Most importantly attorneys brief advocates with whom they have worked with for a while and trust, and most definitely who they know their client will be happy with.
It is not easy to establish a relationship with a new advocate because it does take time. First you send them unopposed matters and slowly but surely start sending them opposed matters ranging in difficulty.
I too am worried that this may not have a very satifactory ending.