Lateraling & Law School Performance Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hey guys,

How much does law school performance really matter if you try to lateral 2-3 years after graduation? I was always under the impression good work product, experience, and networking carried more influence but some firms cite desired GPAs, law review, etc. for lateral applicants.

For reference: at my lower T14 I was an average student (graduating slightly below median, no law review). I'm at a strong regional practice but I'd like to get into a bigger market like NYC.

If anyone has any insight or suggestions, I'd appreciate the input. Thanks!

[84651846190]

It matters less than it did when you were going through OCI but more than it will when you have 5-6 years of experience. No one can say for sure, and some firms have strict grade cutoffs below which they won't hire *anyone*, except maybe partners.

[Old Gregg]

If you're coming from a firm that's a known quantity and your experience is transferable, no one will care.

Source: I have gone through the lateral process with mediocre grades.

[84651846190]

If you're coming from a firm that's a known quantity and your experience is transferable, no one will care.

Source: I have gone through the lateral process with mediocre grades.

This is definitely not true of all firms. Some firms care.

[Old Gregg]

If you're coming from a firm that's a known quantity and your experience is transferable, no one will care.

Source: I have gone through the lateral process with mediocre grades.

This is definitely not true of all firms. Some firms care.

Yes, there are a handful of firms that don't care. Somehow, I strongly believe OP isn't applying to any of them.