need quick advice Forum

[Anonymous User]

I've posted on the site frequently but want to remain anon on this one. Recent UT grad; current fed clerk. I was a transfer student and did not do oci, so, no big law or anything coming out of school. Within the past six months I accepted a job to work at my uncle's firm in a somewhat small market. The firm is great: mostly federal clerks, do complex work for the area of the country, and starts associates at 75k with swift raises. Since accepting the offer, I haven't applied to other firms. However, I applied to a fair amount over the summer.

A few days ago, one of those firms called me wishing to schedule an interview. It is a lit boutique which I don't want to name. Pay is obviously more than double the firm at which I accepted. I think I'm going to do the interview at least. But I can't help feeling like a piece of shit. Should I tell my current firm? Or should I just wait and see if I even get an offer? Obviously, the familial nature of my current firm complicates things, but general advice is welcome.

[A. Nony Mouse]

Wait and see. If you don't get the job (or get it but decide not to leave), none of this matters. If you do get the job (and decide to take it), telling your firm you're leaving is going to be awkward either way, so why make it awkward any earlier than you need to.

Unless maybe you know your uncle is the sort of person who would regard you not telling him as soon as possible as some kind of betrayal. Then maybe consider telling him. But I think that would be in your personal/nephew role, not as an employee. And I feel like you could try to tell your uncle in confidence without telling the firm, if that distinction makes any sense.

Other than for your personal relationship with your uncle, don't tell the firm.

[Tls2016]

1. Do the interview. You don't even know if you want the job or will be hired. Don't tell the firm.

2. My two cents is that working at a firm where you have access to inside knowledge is more valuable than the money. It sounds like you have a great job lined up and a solid plan for your future that is more secure than some random other law firm. Don't value the job you have just by salary.

[Anonymous User]

Op here. Thanks for the advice. I went ahead and scheduled the interview. The firm offered to do it via Skype. It seems odd to me, however, to conduct what is described as a two hour interview in that manner. Might just see if I can miss a day of work to go there in person.