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I was in a somewhat similar situation, though I went to a shittier school and wasn't at quite as good a firm. The big name firm definitely opened up doors when I looked to lateral back to my home market, though the school still held me back with some firms. I'm not sure if I'm in a better position in terms of partnership prospects here compared to the big city/bigger name firm. They all want you to show you can bring in work, which I suck at.

Unless you’re trying to get into an appellate practice, I don’t think you’d have too much difficulty lateraling to a peer firm. Your credentials also aren’t as bad as you think. Top 15% at WF or W&M is similar to like top half at a lower T-14.

To the first user, that’s relieving that the firm still opened up some doors. I hope the partnership possibility works out for you in the home market.

To the second user, that’s even more relieving to hear. I’m not seeking appellate practice. I guess my grades aren’t terrible, but lacking similar people to compare myself at the firm makes it seem less predictable. I hope you’re right.