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Hey TLS,

So I am a JD from a T-14, class of 2018. I have been working in-house in the financial services industry in the middle east since I graduated. It's been nice, but I feel that I am missing out on the raw training provided by US Biglaw.

I now make $287k base and an $81k bonus (all tax-free). And living expenses where I live is relatively lower than the US. I am considering an opportunity to join a law firm in NYC, but I would be taking a significant cut as I will be starting as a 1st year associate ($215k base, $20k bonus). I want to do the grind, so life-work balance is no issue for me.

Now, my plan eventually is to either become partner (if feasible), or go back in-house. Now, if I go back in-house, would my in-house experience prior to moving to Biglaw more valuable to a new employer? Or is international in-house experience considered irrelevant in such cases?

I recognize that there are many variables here (e.g., sector, practice area, etc.), but I am mainly interested in whether my middle-east in-house experience could be considered valuable after my Biglaw stint to a prospective employer.

Thanks!

OP, this isn’t answering your question but I’d love if you could PM me. I’ve been thinking about a transition to the Middle East in the next 3-5 years. American citizen but have experience in the region and trying to figure out what my options might look like (if they exist at all).