Am I tanking my legal career by not working in law for two years post-graduation? Forum

[Ulysses101]

Title says it all. By the time I can realistically take the bar it will have been about a year and a half from when I graduated and about two years by the time I find actual employment.

Right now, and probably up until then, I've been working at a brokerage as a broker. Got my industry licenses and everything, but this isn't exactly a prestigious or demanding position.

Have I destroyed my legal career? I would like to know before I throw a few grand at a course and exam registration.

[cavalier1138]

I mean, you haven't done it any favors...

Why did you put off entering practice? And what kind of jobs are you hoping to be competitive for?

[Anonymous User]

I mean, you haven't done it any favors...

Why did you put off entering practice? And what kind of jobs are you hoping to be competitive for?

Was going through a rough place up to graduation and post graduation. Finally just starting to get it together.

As far as jobs go, my background is public interest heavy, but I would be fine with basically anything short of doc review. If that's how it's going to be though I'd rather just cut my losses and move on y'know.

[malibustacy]

I mean short answer, yes.

But really depends on how you spin the experience in interviews and law school credentials and stuff.

But yes, mostly you're off to a big disadvantage.

[Ulysses101]

I mean short answer, yes.

But really depends on how you spin the experience in interviews and law school credentials and stuff.

But yes, mostly you're off to a big disadvantage.

Well thanks for being upfront about it. I'm sure I could spin it about getting more experience in the private sector and markets, but ultimately that seems to be pointless if my chances are close to nill.

[tlsadmin3]

You are at a disadvantage that is for sure, but if you tailor your resume to show that what you did was related to the legal industry you should have a better chance. You might have to choose a practice area similar to what you are doing now. I would also apply to positions where your school is highly regarded.
A small/regional law firm might be your best bet to get a law job. If I were you I would start looking for a law firm position NOW! You have an uphill battle, good luck!

[EzraFitz]

You are at a disadvantage that is for sure, but if you tailor your resume to show that what you did was related to the legal industry you should have a better chance. You might have to choose a practice area similar to what you are doing now. I would also apply to positions where your school is highly regarded.
A small/regional law firm might be your best bet to get a law job. If I were you I would start looking for a law firm position NOW! You have an uphill battle, good luck!

The bolded bit is critical. Don't begin looking once you've passed the bar. Start looking now! The more feelers you begin to put out, the better picture you can get of what may actually be available in the location/area in which you want to practice.

[Ulysses101]

You are at a disadvantage that is for sure, but if you tailor your resume to show that what you did was related to the legal industry you should have a better chance. You might have to choose a practice area similar to what you are doing now. I would also apply to positions where your school is highly regarded.
A small/regional law firm might be your best bet to get a law job. If I were you I would start looking for a law firm position NOW! You have an uphill battle, good luck!

The bolded bit is critical. Don't begin looking once you've passed the bar. Start looking now! The more feelers you begin to put out, the better picture you can get of what may actually be available in the location/area in which you want to practice.

Realistically I wouldn't be taking the bar until next February, would I still be putting in apps now? I'm just not sure what I should be doing. Are clerkships out of the question as well?

I went to a T4 and was slightly below median if that helps answer any questions.

[tlsadmin3]

You are at a disadvantage that is for sure, but if you tailor your resume to show that what you did was related to the legal industry you should have a better chance. You might have to choose a practice area similar to what you are doing now. I would also apply to positions where your school is highly regarded.
A small/regional law firm might be your best bet to get a law job. If I were you I would start looking for a law firm position NOW! You have an uphill battle, good luck!

The bolded bit is critical. Don't begin looking once you've passed the bar. Start looking now! The more feelers you begin to put out, the better picture you can get of what may actually be available in the location/area in which you want to practice.

Realistically I wouldn't be taking the bar until next February, would I still be putting in apps now? I'm just not sure what I should be doing. Are clerkships out of the question as well?

I went to a T4 and was slightly below median if that helps answer any questions.

It never hurts to apply, as long as you tell them you intend to take the bar in February. If you can find SA positions, fall associate positions, and/or internships at law firms definitely apply to them. During this time period your goal should be to make connections and get offers for when you pass the bar.

One side note: I would work with on interviewing and have a game plan on how to phrase why you didn't go into law after law school. I don't know about your school, but most have a career center that can help you prep for interviews even after you graduate, I would take advantage of that valuable resource.

[Anonymous User]

I am in a somewhat similar situation as I was out for 2 years due to not having work authorization. I managed to claw my way back in to a small firm as I was able to spin my 2 years non-work into something positive and I accepted everything that came my way, including lowly contract work and pro bono. You can do it, but be realistic about what option you can get.