Top Law Schools

T25, top 15% after first semester, V30 firm for 1L. I'm considering transferring somewhere in the mid T10. May even apply U Chi ED which is solely based on first semester grades. I'm not curious about my chances at those schools at this point. My question is should I transfer, assuming I have the GPA to get into the mid T10? I'm paying sticker now and would at the next school. But based on getting multiple V100 offers for 1L summer I'm pretty sure I won't have trouble getting a big law job like I want, so transferring won't really affect that. Other than helping me get teaching positions someday (which I may or may not pursue), what are other advantages to transferring up? Does it make a big affect when looking to go in-house or is that more based on the big law firm/experience you have? Obviously transferring would cause additional costs, inconveniences, and other issues...so do you think it would be worth it to me? Thanks in advance!

If you want to work in Chicago or another T10 market then transfer there. If you are happy with the current market, school, and your job prospects then stay. But if it is the same cost why not go to a better school if you can.

The obvious pros are better jobs at better firms. More bragging rights, and more prestige. Cons, a mere incovenience of moving to a city that you like.

UFlaw99 wrote:another T10 market

As a rising 2L (in hours... yes I recognize that you're halfway through your 2E year) who is just no entering the transfer process, please stop posting advice. So far it has been questionable at best.

I wouldn't transfer in your position unless you're paying the same cost. Then I would probably just use it as leverage to get $$$ out of my current school and stay.

Is your v30 firm in the market you want to be in long term?

Prioritize your long-term goals for us.

T30-->T6 transfer here. If the cost is going to be similar, definitely transfer.

First, try to get significant scholarship money from your curent school. If they don't bite, then transfer. Happiness/comfort at your curent school, and even law review are things that will quickly fade in importance. Going to a top school will stay with you forever.