Which job would you take? Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hi all,

I've been very fortunate this hiring cycle and have managed to secure a few offers to give me some good options.

I have decided to work at two firms this summer (let's assume for the sake of the thread that this won't affect my chances at either firm).

One firm is a top firm. Particularly well-known for litigation.

The other firm is a tiny (think less than 15 attorneys) lit boutique in a secondary market (however, it pays big law market with slightly bigger bonuses).

At this point in time, the boutique is more in line with what I want to do. I could see myself making a long and happy career there. Money also goes a lot further in this market, so I'd be able to get out of debt faster.

However, given its small size and the fact it's a virtual unknown, my exit opportunities are (presumably) severely limited. If my girlfriend ends up in a different city, for example, it'll be hard for me to go elsewhere.

There's also a stability risk with such a small firm. Although there are no signs of trouble with the firm, all it takes is a few defectors or one big oops.

On the flip side, I think I'd be miserable in the big firm and I would be there mostly for the exit opportunities (eventually move into a top boutique). However, the exit opportunities would be plentiful, and I'd have the opportunity to move around a lot more and find my niche than I would at the small firm.

I know I'll have to make the ultimate decision, but I'd like to hear some other perspectives.

Thanks!