Second-tier Chicago BigLaw vs. strong midsized firm Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hi all,

Recognizing the fact that there are many factors that can't be accounted for in a post like this, which is preferable, working at a non-Kirkland/Sidley/Mayer/Jenner/Winston Biglaw firm in Chicago, or at a strong regional firm in a secondary market? Is it true that it's easier to make partner in a secondary market?

Thanks!

[Cavalier]

...

[Anonymous User]

First-tier Chicago Biglaw: Kirkland

Second-tier Chicago Biglaw: Everyone else.


KIRKLAND SHATTERS

[Anonymous User]

You seem to be worried about not being at a top-tier firm in your market, which is just silly. You shouldn't avoid a location just because you won't be at the very top if that's where you want to live. Partnership prospects vary from firm to firm. Check the partner:associate ratio for both firms to get an idea.

My worry isn't so much about not being at a "top-tier" firm in my market, as the overall cost/benefit when comparing a "secondary" BigLaw job to a strong regional job. I'm operating under the assumption that work/life balance and partnership prospects are better at the regional firm, and as such I'm wondering whether the higher pay/career opportunities/"prestige" of a secondary BigLaw job outweighs that.

[Anonymous User]

You seem to be worried about not being at a top-tier firm in your market, which is just silly. You shouldn't avoid a location just because you won't be at the very top if that's where you want to live. Partnership prospects vary from firm to firm. Check the partner:associate ratio for both firms to get an idea.

My worry isn't so much about not being at a "top-tier" firm in my market, as the overall cost/benefit when comparing a "secondary" BigLaw job to a strong regional job. I'm operating under the assumption that work/life balance and partnership prospects are better at the regional firm, and as such I'm wondering whether the higher pay/career opportunities/"prestige" of a secondary BigLaw job outweighs that.

Some would say that working in a smaller market allows you to get substantive work faster, which would make you more attractive as a lateral when you hit years 4-6.