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I'm considering moving from BL to JAG, but don't know if it's possible and what the time frame is. Anyone know anything about how the process works? Do you get credit for your experience practicing?

I'm currently in Biglaw and will probably do the same thing. There is a thread on here---Military law that you should read. Its really long and hard to navigate, but give it a read if you are serious. If memory serves me correct, there is one NY big law refugee who did this and went to the Army.

As far as timing, it sucks. The military branches have boards where they accept applications for the next year's program, so if you are looking for a quick exit, it will be unlikely.

You wont get credit for practicing. Most branches you come in as an O-2 (but quickly promoted to O-3).

With all that said, get started quickly if you want to do this for next year, as many of the branches boards are coming up.

OP: How does loan forgiveness work with the program, and do you have control over your work? Taking a 90% pay cut is something I could only consider if I'm investigating and trying cases. If I'm just writing wills and filing taxes, I could do that in BL.

It's the military, you don't even have control over yourself. Depending on the branch, you could end up in entirely different assignments. For example, I knew an AF JAG who did one trial in one year and the rest of the time she did legal assistance: which meant working on wills and helping servicemembers with referrals (since JAGs don't do civil stuff). I also knew a Navy JAG who was put into recruitment for two years and that's all he did. No legal stuff.

If you're going into JAG hoping for greater control in cases, you're in for a big surprise. Every commander will treat you differently and every assignment will bring in new challenges.

You might want to look into a state AGs office instead. Or DA if you want trial after trial after trial.