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So, I'm at a T10, probably top 1/3 (no class rank, but a bit north of 3.5), moot court board. I know two of the professors that have written me LORs are very well respected and both are willing to make calls for me. Also, I have a district court clerkship lined up for 2017.

I'm getting some pressure to apply to COA positions for either 2018 or 2019 from my firm. My concern is applying to these position is a waste of time because my grades are not great. Im just trying to get an idea if this would be a completely futile effort, or if its worth a shot.

Thanks!!

You have a district court clerkship and professors willing to make calls for you. You've got a shot. Although you would be a significantly stronger candidate if you had top 10% instead of top-third grades, you're at least a couple steps above the "futile effort" level. Apply broadly.

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You might want to think about asking your district judge about COA judges that former clerks have gone on to work for (sometimes the JA will have a list at the ready). Some COA judges will be willing to reach for someone with lower grades if they know they're coming in with a year of training from a district judge they respect.

Thank you for the responses! I am suppose to meet up with my Dist. Judge in a few weeks for lunch, I guess I can pick his brain a bit about his COA relationships. I am also planning to touch base with my professors this week.

The firm just hired a hot shot appellate lawyer to QB appeals firm wide from our office. I think she wants a handful of associates with COA experience working with her. Thats the only reason the firm is a bit pushy atm. I think they want to keep her happy.

Again, thanks all. Any other input/opinions would be appreciated!

What firm is it? I'm, uh...asking for a friend.

Feel free to PM me.

Anonymous User wrote:Thank you for the responses! I am suppose to meet up with my Dist. Judge in a few weeks for lunch, I guess I can pick his brain a bit about his COA relationships. I am also planning to touch base with my professors this week.

The firm just hired a hot shot appellate lawyer to QB appeals firm wide from our office. I think she wants a handful of associates with COA experience working with her. Thats the only reason the firm is a bit pushy atm. I think they want to keep her happy.

Again, thanks all. Any other input/opinions would be appreciated!

Or they over-recruited.

Clearly wrote:

Anonymous User wrote:Thank you for the responses! I am suppose to meet up with my Dist. Judge in a few weeks for lunch, I guess I can pick his brain a bit about his COA relationships. I am also planning to touch base with my professors this week.

The firm just hired a hot shot appellate lawyer to QB appeals firm wide from our office. I think she wants a handful of associates with COA experience working with her. Thats the only reason the firm is a bit pushy atm. I think they want to keep her happy.

Again, thanks all. Any other input/opinions would be appreciated!

Or they over-recruited.

Thankfully, this is not an issue haha.