Realistic Options: T25/Bottom 20%/Year Off Forum

[Anonymous User]

I graduated in 2016 from a T25 school in the bottom 20% of my class. I did not receive any offers although I interviewed for several jobs (small-to-medium firms and government) before graduation. Honestly, I probably could have applied for more at the time. Regardless, I decided not to sit for the bar last July. I took it in February and failed - retaking this summer.

Despite not having passed February (at the time I didn't have results), I had a few interviews for jobs in March and April, none of which led to an offer. That said, the folks with whom I interviewed seemed unworried by the fact that I "took some time off". On one hand, I guess that's a good thing. On the other, that probably means that, in theory, these firms might have hired me but did not like me in my interview.

Over the last year, I've applied to countless JD preferred jobs. My results have been either no response, "you're overqualified", or "the JD is nice but need some specific experience."

Some other potentially-relevant factors are: (1) I had "typical" summer positions in law school (judge and small firm); (2) I'm interested in various things, but my resume and transcript don't establish a specific focus or passion; (3) I went straight through from college to law school (if that's relevant for age/previous experience purposes); and (4) I've done nothing noteworthy in my "year off" (in actuality I studied full time from Dec-Feb, applied for jobs until results were released, failed, started studying again).

I would appreciate any opinions or advice you all might have - especially if there's someone out there who had a similar experience. Happy to answer any questions.

[snowball2]

What do you do for networking? Any social events? CLE? Some one always knows a solo practitioner somewhere who has a lot on their plate and is willing to lay some work off to an "associate." Totally get that's it's not ideal but you're then "employed" and still have time to look for something else. Waiting for the perfect job is like waiting for the perfect mate; you can experience some imperfect situations that will keep you in the game.

Just my 2 cents.

[Anonymous User]

OP.

Thanks for your input. Honestly, not much networking - especially since failing in February. I email people at firms if I know them or have some kind of a clear connection. I agree with your advice, but it's not like I'm avoiding/turning down jobs. Maybe I'm a little gun shy after so many rejections.

Here's a specific question: is it worth emailing people at firms that, in theory, I'd never get a job at? I have some contacts that I was too hesitant to contact my third year because I didn't want to admit poor grades.

[1styearlateral]

Here's a specific question: is it worth emailing people at firms that, in theory, I'd never get a job at? I have some contacts that I was too hesitant to contact my third year because I didn't want to admit poor grades.

It doesn't hurt so yes, it's worth it.

[gaddockteeg]

Can you work for free? I would just look for non profits and small firms who are willing to hire you for minimum wage or similarly low pay. Similarly, a lot of PD offices and DA offices hire full time "volunteers" for no pay. Just think of it as more school -- except it doesnt cost you 60k/year.

IME, legal employment gets significantly easier once you get your first job; so with that in mind, just get anything, stick it out for 1.5 years and you'll be able to make a move from there.

[Anonymous User]

Can you work for free? I would just look for non profits and small firms who are willing to hire you for minimum wage or similarly low pay. Similarly, a lot of PD offices and DA offices hire full time "volunteers" for no pay. Just think of it as more school -- except it doesnt cost you 60k/year.

IME, legal employment gets significantly easier once you get your first job; so with that in mind, just get anything, stick it out for 1.5 years and you'll be able to make a move from there.

That's a good idea. I've heard of those opportunities, but never gave them much thought in hopes of getting something paid. But, since I've basically been working without pay (studying for the bar) since November, maybe another year won't hurt.

It's great to hear that about jobs down the road. Just need to pass, find something and do good work. I appreciate your feedback.

[Anonymous User]

Can you work for free? I would just look for non profits and small firms who are willing to hire you for minimum wage or similarly low pay. Similarly, a lot of PD offices and DA offices hire full time "volunteers" for no pay. Just think of it as more school -- except it doesnt cost you 60k/year.

IME, legal employment gets significantly easier once you get your first job; so with that in mind, just get anything, stick it out for 1.5 years and you'll be able to make a move from there.

I ageee with this. My fiancé was in a sort of similar but honestly better of spot. She didn't snag anything before graduation, found a job at a small firm right after the bar and after 7 months of work experience has firmsaling her and offering her big law jobs. She's T14 and had better grades, but I think the premise is the same. Your world of employment changes with just a little experience. No one wants to pay to train, but once you sort of know how to be a lawyer you become way more valuable and grades matter way less.

That's a good idea. I've heard of those opportunities, but never gave them much thought in hopes of getting something paid. But, since I've basically been working without pay (studying for the bar) since November, maybe another year won't hurt.

It's great to hear that about jobs down the road. Just need to pass, find something and do good work. I appreciate your feedback.