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I have an offer for a position at a small firm this summer (5 attorneys) at $10 an hour, full-time. The offer expires Monday. I also interviewed with 3 mid-size firms the week after, and I was told from one firm that I'd hear back about CBs next week. I know it's early to even consider this, but the interviews went great and I have a feeling I'll get at least 1 CB. How horrible is it to withdraw my acceptance from the small firm if I get another offer at one of the mid-size firms? And what are the procedures for the job search following acceptance of an offer? Will I ruin my reputation if I wait to hear from the other firms or if I go to CBs after accepting another offer?

Background: T30, top 30%, 1L, all firms in the same state (but different cities), and I want to practice in said state but originally from out-of-state.

If the benefit outweighs burning the bridge at the small firm then do it. You owe them nothing. The only people who will ever know you reneged will be the five people at the small firm.

Not horrible, not going to ruin your reputation. I've done it (different industry, but one where everyone knows everyone else) and the only drawback is the awkwardness if you run into those who extended the offer. But it sounds like it might be in a different city, so you probably won't be going to weekly dance classes right after the hiring partner's class like I did.

I recommend asking Firm 1 for an extended deadline.

Something similar happened to me during 1L job search. What you need to do is call the firm with which you have an offer and ask them for an extension. There is a good chance they will grant it. Tell them you feel very fortunate to have their offer, you are considering it seriously, but you need a little bit more time. Also call the other firms and tell them you have an offer with a fast-approaching deadline. That latter move might get you a CB even if you originally weren't going to get one, because just like girls, firms like the candidates that they think everyone else likes too. It makes you more attractive.