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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.

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.