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Could anyone speak to the process/opportunity of switching firms after their 2L summer? Assume that an offer was extended, but want to switch locations for personal reasons and you didn't like firm or they don't have office in your location of choice. I am particularly interested in those who have spent their 2L summer in NYC but sought to change to a firm in CA after the summer. Appreciate any insight.

If you couldn't land the firm (or even a firm in the state) you wanted as a 2L, there's very little chance you will be able to do so as a 3L. The best chance to switch would be to a pursue a federal clerkship near where you want to work and try again after that. Other than that, your next most realistic opportunity will be to lateral as a mid-level associate.

I think the chances of your success will greatly depend on you as a candidate. Do you have top grades? Do you have interesting work experience or something on your resume that is highly impressive? What are your ties to California? All of those will dictate odds of success.

Personally, I worked for a V50 in one city, and I had to search for other jobs during the past month in another city. FWIW, I have two offers in that city and the V50 I worked in this summer is trying to see if I can transfer the offer. What helped me was a good reason for relocating, an offer from SA firm, being at the top of my class, and high level performance in something that I did during undergrad.

Oh, luck helps too. I don't think enough can be said for just being in the right place at the right time.