Post
by Anonymous User » Tue Dec 18, 2012 11:22 pm
While it certainly would depend on the state--there's always government work and state clerking. Generally, though, you'll need to pass the bar first before being considered for the former. But most states don't even require you to be a member of their state to clerk in their courts. See NJ and CT. Pay sucks, but you'll meet a plenty of lawyers in court. It's actually a great networking job with normal hours and at the very least you'll improve your writing. I clerked for a state commerce and complex litigation judge over the summer in a somewhat nearby state (9 hour drive) and I know she would have me as one of her full-time clerks (she gets to have two) in a heartbeat. Great city, too, but I have no friends or family there. A trial court clerkship would be a natural fit for a future litigator. I got lucky with her and her types of cases. Hedge fund stuff, arbitration appeals, etc. No crappy driveway property disputes or ambulance chasers.
But there's also the fellowship route, which I am hoping for. I was just selected as one of the finalist for a two-year fellowship to work in a clinic by my law school. The pay would be on par with clerking, but since it wouldn't be considered a "real" entry-level job, it will still leave me eligible for for DOJ, et al, or another crack at a federal clerking gig. If I become a fellow, they'll also pay the interest on my loans for the duration, which is not insignificant.
It's my best lead so I can't blow the interview next month.
Solo practice is doable, but also incredibly dangerous. I will NEVER do doc review. I'll choose another career before that happens.
... Or maybe with 2 room mates...
