Can you work for a judge and law firm at the same time?

[Anonymous User]

I have an opportunity to work for a state appellate judge my 1L summer. This judge has a very good reputation for a state appellate judge (Double HYS grad, ex-law prof.) and is rumored to be headed for the state supreme court. I did not actually apply for this position. I had the top paper in two of my classes in fall, and one of the professors is friends with the judge, which is how I got this offer without applying. However, I am not in a good financial situation. I'm married, so it's not just myself I have to worry about. I was planning to have to do paying work this summer to make ends meet, and was planning to do some PI work a day or two a week to get some legal experience in. The judge indicated he could work something out where I work for him three days a week so I have time to earn some money too, but it seems like he'd rather have me full time. I also have an opportunity to work PT at a small law firm, paid. Can you do this, or is it a conflict of interest because the law firm (although unlikely) could have cases before the judge? Would I be foolish to pass on the opportunity to work for the judge? I have no family who will give me any money, before anyone suggests that.

[Renzo]

The only person who could answer this for you is the judge. Why don't you call him and tell him exactly what you said here: That you're really excited for the opportunity, but need to earn some money for your family, and if it wouldn't cause any ethical conflicts you'd like to do both.