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I just finished 1L and am slightly above median at a T20. I want to work in the T20's market; it's an insular market, but I have strong ties (born and raised here, went to college here, and went to law school here). I currently work at a mid-size firm in this market. I would love to work at this firm after graduation, but it rarely hires students directly out of law school.

My boss (a named partner) at the firm told me that a new firm just moved to town with 6 or so attorneys. He told me that they're looking to rapidly expand to 30 or so attorneys. Presumably, that means that they would hire a few new associates. They are not listed on our school's OCI list.

Should I contact the firm and see if I could apply for an SA? If so, when? Thanks!

How could it possibly hurt to do so?

kalvano wrote:How could it possibly hurt to do so?

OP here. I know it doesn't hurt to do so, but isn't it early to send out SA applications? If not, should I mention that I heard they're expanding and would like to join an up-and-coming firm, etc.?

I would just say "I am a rising 2L and I am currently working at Winken, Blinken, & Nod, P.C. I was told by one of the partners, Connor MacLeod, that your firm is in the process of opening an office here, and Mr. MacLeod suggested I write and inquire if you plan to employ summer associates. If so, I would be very interested in any available opportunities. Please let me know at your convenience."

And then go from there.

kalvano wrote:I would just say "I am a rising 2L and I am currently working at Winken, Blinken, & Nod, P.C. I was told by one of the partners, Connor MacLeod, that your firm is in the process of opening an office here, and Mr. MacLeod suggested I write and inquire if you plan to employ summer associates. If so, I would be very interested in any available opportunities. Please let me know at your convenience."

And then go from there.

OP here: Thanks! He actually didn't mention that I inquire; rather, he just told me about it. However, he isn't very shy about the fact that the firm isn't really looking to hire J.D.'s fresh from law school. I'll tweak that a little bit, but I appreciate the input.

Also, what town? Firm? PM me if you want, 3L here who may be interested.

A new firm that's planning to rapidly expand seems rare to me. I would hang on to that connection like grim death.