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Here's the deal ...

Accepted an SA. The program only runs for eight weeks. Subsequently received an offer to clerk for a federal government agency. Would like to do both, for obvious reasons (i.e. experience and $$$).

The firm's official position is "case-by-case" consideration of split summers. If I am (a) participating in the full length of the firm's program and (b) have every intention of accepting their offer if I receive one, is there any imperative / good reason to mention the agency position to the firm?

EDITED to remove potentially identifying info and to add my thanks for responses. Will mention it to the firm's hiring partner.

Seems like you should tell them so they can clear any potential (if extremely unlikely) conflict of interest issues. Don't see any reason why they would say no though.

they are going to find out at some point. Better to be up front about it. Its not like you are squeezing in another firm - they shouldn't mind at all.

This is totally normal. Just let them know.

Edit: Sorry for anon.

You absolutely have to tell them. Hiding a previous or upcoming legal employer from another legal employer, even by omission, is dangerous and inappropriate. They need to know about your other legal employers so that they can meet their ethical obligations.

Whatever you do, don't jeopardize your fed internship if you are even remotely open to a career with the feds. It is difficult to get a federal attorney opportunity, but the best way is usually via familiarity with the agency/people before practicing as an attorney. Get to know your supervisor well, do good work for him/her, and keep in touch: if there is an opening down the line, you will get in. Fed jobs are usually (read: 99.9%) filled based on connections.