Top Law Schools

Anonymous User wrote:I worked at a boutique firm over the summer. Paid right around $3,000 / week, the pro-rated entry level attorney salary. Typical day involved me getting in whenever I wanted and leaving whenever I wanted, there was no babysitting. I had projects assigned to me as early as 9am and as late as after 6pm though, so being there during normal hours was important, but there was no time sheet and no clock.

I billed time just like an associate though, with billing codes and careful time keeping and all.

A typical day would be getting in, checking for an assignment from a partner (in case it came in over night), working on whatever was left from the prior day until lunch, eating lunch, and working on something until it was time to leave.

I worked on several small projects (edit this right now, sit in on this meeting/call, etc.) and several large projects (write a research memo about X, I need to know the answer to Y question, I think case Z means something but I want you to make sure, please edit this large writing piece, etc).

Many projects were assigned, but otherwise you feel things out. Especially at small firms it's likely to be pretty loose and informal. People will know you're there and be on the look out for projects that aren't critical which you can take your time on, and will tap your shoulder if they need help on a small matter. Let people know if you have interests or free time. It can be stressful and chaotic, no doubt.

My understanding is that "law firm social activities" are often dominated by events for summer associates.

I will not be working for the firm again, but was invited to if I wanted.