Is split summer a taboo? Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hi there. I have received several offers from both a primary market and my home market and I am considering splitting my summers between two firms. I understand that this can be viewed negatively but I am curious to know whether this is a complete taboo, especially for firms that have 100% offer rate history in the past few years. I have read previous posts on TLS and found some old posts back in 2011/2012 and I am wondering if firms' attitudes have changed. Thanks!

[Bartolomeus]

Is your home market one in which (like, say, Texas) splitting is common? Though I don't know personally, I think that's essential info in deciding this. Plus, keep in mind your objectives. Are you *really* indifferent between the markets, or do you have a preference? If so, I would think being conservative is a good idea, in which case you should just pick the market where you would prefer to work.

[Anonymous User]

Hi there. I have received several offers from both a primary market and my home market and I am considering splitting my summers between two firms. I understand that this can be viewed negatively but I am curious to know whether this is a complete taboo, especially for firms that have 100% offer rate history in the past few years. I have read previous posts on TLS and found some old posts back in 2011/2012 and I am wondering if firms' attitudes have changed. Thanks!

Do their NALP pages say they are open to splitting? Many firms in the non-NYC/DC market I had offers in were simply opposed to any splits and would not allow them. And even if they do allow a split, most firms will require you to spend the first part of your summer with them, making splitting with another firm extremely difficult.

I don't know how it will be looked on the backside, but I would track down who would even be open to it as a first step.

[Roy McAvoy]

In somewhere like TX where it's common this would be no problem. I know several people in my class who did it this summer. Can't speak to other markets.

[Anonymous User]

OP here.
Unfortunately it's not Texas, but two firms I am considering both allow splits - that's one thing that confuses me the most because it's like a "yes means no". I don't have a geography preference but I do want to see the difference between a primary market and a secondary market. I have more connections back home which I hope that I can make use of, but I am also afraid that I will lose training opportunities in the beginning of my career. Of course lateral later is an option but I think the primary/secondary market thing will still be there and I won't be able to have the same opportunity to split at that time.