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What happens if I take a really specific 2L SA like patent litigation, but decide I don't like it?

Is it customary for programs like these to give return offers specifically for patent litigation (or whatever the specialty field was)?

If I take that return offer, how long would I be expected to stay in that practice and how difficult is it to go into something else at the end of that period?

It’s going to depend on the firm, but most summer programs let you try a few different things even if you recruited for patent litigation. At the end, you rank what you want and they match you. Most firms will give you an offer for a specific group. That being said, if you really hate a group or decide you’d be happier doing something else, the firm will probably accommodate you. I have had a friend call his firm and switch groups already.

The other option, which I’ve never seen (I’m a 3L), is to lateral.