Turning down law firm offer after SA Forum

[Anonymous User]

This is probably a dumb question. I think that I am going to turn down my law firm offer. The firm was kind enough to give me an extension until Dec 1 to look at some other non-firm things, and I went through the partner responsible for managing the summer program to get that extension. Can I just email to decline the offer, or does etiquette require me to call? I don't think they're waiting with bated breath to see what I do, but it was a small firm and I also don't want them to think I'm ungrateful or treated the option cavalierly.

[dingbat]

This is probably a dumb question. I think that I am going to turn down my law firm offer. The firm was kind enough to give me an extension until Dec 1 to look at some other non-firm things, and I went through the partner responsible for managing the summer program to get that extension. Can I just email to decline the offer, or does etiquette require me to call? I don't think they're waiting with bated breath to see what I do, but it was a small firm and I also don't want them to think I'm ungrateful or treated the option cavalierly.

If you established a rapport, and they gave you an extension, you should call, IMO.

[imchuckbass58]

I don't think it's "required," but it would be good form to call. Probably will not be as awkward as you imagine, especially if you're going into gov't / public interest rather than a different firm.

[run26.2]

This is probably a dumb question. I think that I am going to turn down my law firm offer. The firm was kind enough to give me an extension until Dec 1 to look at some other non-firm things, and I went through the partner responsible for managing the summer program to get that extension. Can I just email to decline the offer, or does etiquette require me to call? I don't think they're waiting with bated breath to see what I do, but it was a small firm and I also don't want them to think I'm ungrateful or treated the option cavalierly.

You definitely owe it to them to give them a call. They have been fair and gracious with you and may have questions about your reasons. You still may not want to provide those, but I'd be prepared for them. And I think it is courteous to do. Besides, the legal world is small.

[patrickd139]

I'd propose that turning down a full-time offer after spending a summer with the firm would always warrant a call.

[Anonymous User]

Yes, y'all are right. They were very accommodating throughout the entire process. I will call.

[CanadianWolf]

If you want them to feel that they were right to extend an offer to you, then call. If not, then email.