Reneging & Relocating to a Smaller Market Post-Clerkship Forum

[peacherino101]

After my 2L summer, I accepted a return offer from a biglaw firm in a fairly large market. The firm was great, but I did not enjoy living in a large metropolitan area. I was honest with the recruiter of my SA firm and told her I wasn’t sure whether I’d be back in (at the time) 3 years, but she assured me there would be no hard feelings if I decided to go another way. I am now halfway through my two year fed clerkship, and after a lot of thought I’ve decided I want to practice in a smaller market (think Charlotte/Nashville/Raleigh).

I’m aware I might be late in the game to snag a spot in biglaw this year even in the smaller market, but I still want to try. I need some advice about how to explain my situation to prospective employers .

My resume will reflect that I summered at another firm. How do I explain that I am committed to another firm on paper but intend to reneg if I get another offer?

Candidly, do you think my interest in relocating will look flighty? I know my reasons are my reasons, but I am concerned that the timing and the fact that I’m leaving a lot of money on the table at the other firm will come off as an irrational, hasty choice. (I say this in part because I can already hear my Judge criticizing me for this decision (lol) - he worked at my SA firm years ago and brings it up often).

Any help/advice appreciated!