Need advice--Re: 2L Summer Associate Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hi all,

I attend a tier 2 law school in New England. I'm in the top 10%. I accepted a summer associate offer from a firm based in ___ for this summer, but I want to practice law in Boston or DC. The firm has hired summer associates the previous 3 years, so I think if I do a good job I may get an offer.

My question is what can I do now to try to get a job in Boston/DC for after I graduate now that I've accepted a summer associate position with a firm in __? Moreover, assuming I get an offer in the fall of 2017, should I accept the offer knowing that I want to make a move to DC/Boston within the next year or two. Do I wait it out for those 2 years or reject the offer in hopes that I lock something down in Boston/DC? I just do not want to get stuck and I fear that I might.

I hope I'm making sense. I appreciate any advice.

[Future Ex-Engineer]

This is not necessarily specific to the world of law employment, but my rule of thumb in the working world (that has always seemed to apply) is that it's way easier to find a new job if you already have one than to get employed when you're unemployed.

Take that as you will, but I think if you had the option between guaranteed work (with the possibility to move later on) and potential unemployment, the answer is a no brainer.

If someone with more relevant experience comes along and says otherwise, listen to them.

[Br3v]

You are at a "tier 2" school, you do not reject offers. Non-sarcastic congrats on the grades though. Just be professional and follow your gut, but don't throw good jobs away carelessly

[RaceJudicata]

Accept an offer if you get one. I don't think there is any room for debate there. If you get a job in your preferred market during 3L - then fantastic. Take it, and call up 2L firm and turn em down. They'll get over it.

[SFSpartan]

Accept the offer immediately. At the end of the summer, step up to the crapshoot that is 3L OCI and hope for the best. If you find something in your preferred market, great. If not, you'll still have a job.