Fall 2021 Post-Clerkship Hiring Forum

[Anonymous User]

Thought I'd kick this off, though it's a bit early, especially given the legal market this year. Do we know who is hiring? Have folks started sending in applications yet?

[Anonymous User]

I've been in contact with multiple firms, all of which have told me that they have no idea about what their needs will be and to check back in in March.

[Anonymous User]

From what I’ve seen so far, even the firms that are usually first to startup clerk recruitment are taking a more cautious approach.

I’m expecting a long, slow cycle, but am still hopeful that hiring picks up by Jan-March.

[Anonymous User]

A lot of firms are still trying to figure out what to do about the incoming c/o 2020. There will be little to no movement before January.

[Anonymous User]

Have firms started reaching out to chambers for anyone else? I've received one email about a virtual reception (lol) in a few weeks but that's it so far, although even receiving one this early was surprising

[Anonymous User]

Have firms started reaching out to chambers for anyone else? I've received one email about a virtual reception (lol) in a few weeks but that's it so far, although even receiving one this early was surprising

I've gotten one screener-style interview and one more serious interview so far from boutiques. True BigLaw firms are still absolutely radio silent -- hoping things are better in the new year.

[purplegoldtornado]

Maybe this is simplistic, but is there a particular reason that some of you didn't just go back to your summer associate firm?

[Anonymous User]

@purplegoldtornado, I'm applying broadly bc who knows what'll happen with the old firm. The offer on my way out seemed pretty firm, but that's far from binding. It'll also help leverage for a clerkship bonus if they attempt to get rid of that. There's no indication that they'll do any of the above (in fact, they're among those that gave an early fall bonus..) but as employees, we have to look out for ourselves. Knocking on wood that we don't see something like '08.

[purplegoldtornado]

@purplegoldtornado, I'm applying broadly bc who knows what'll happen with the old firm. The offer on my way out seemed pretty firm, but that's far from binding. It'll also help leverage for a clerkship bonus if they attempt to get rid of that. There's no indication that they'll do any of the above (in fact, they're among those that gave an early fall bonus..) but as employees, we have to look out for ourselves. Knocking on wood that we don't see something like '08.

That makes sense. Thanks!

[Anonymous User]

Maybe this is simplistic, but is there a particular reason that some of you didn't just go back to your summer associate firm?

Didn't like biglaw, don't plan on going back

[Anonymous User]

Do folks know what the traditional post-clerkship hiring timeframe is? It appears that boutique hiring happens first and then big law in January-ish. Also, what do people think about how COVID will impact post-clerkship recruiting?

[ughbugchugplug]

If I’m not going back to my old firm when should I be submitting apps? Now? Considering boutiques, big law, mid law

Also how should I handle it if I’m applying for AUSA also? Just get a private practice job and then tell them whoops going to AUSA if I get a position?

[Anonymous User]

If I’m not going back to my old firm when should I be submitting apps? Now? Considering boutiques, big law, mid law

Also how should I handle it if I’m applying for AUSA also? Just get a private practice job and then tell them whoops going to AUSA if I get a position?

Now is probably the time to start. The hiring market is beginning to heat up. I accepted an offer from the first choice in my home market (not traditional big law) about two weeks ago and had to cancel some other callbacks and screening interviews (including both a boutique and a V10).

Can't help you with the AUSA question though.

[Anonymous User]

Also how should I handle it if I’m applying for AUSA also? Just get a private practice job and then tell them whoops going to AUSA if I get a position?

This is what I'm doing.

[Anonymous User]

If I’m not going back to my old firm when should I be submitting apps? Now? Considering boutiques, big law, mid law

Also how should I handle it if I’m applying for AUSA also? Just get a private practice job and then tell them whoops going to AUSA if I get a position?

Now is probably the time to start. The hiring market is beginning to heat up. I accepted an offer from the first choice in my home market (not traditional big law) about two weeks ago and had to cancel some other callbacks and screening interviews (including both a boutique and a V10).

Can't help you with the AUSA question though.

Were the boutique and V10 in your home market too, or NY/DC? Just wondering if there are differences in timeline, because I heard from a DC biglaw hiring partner that they don't typically start reviewing applications until January

[Anonymous User]

Were the boutique and V10 in your home market too, or NY/DC? Just wondering if there are differences in timeline, because I heard from a DC biglaw hiring partner that they don't typically start reviewing applications until January

V10 was NY, boutique was out west.

[Anonymous User]

Also crickets on the Big Law front. Looking in SF/SV. I talk to partners and associates and they say they are completely slammed with work, but recruiting doesn't seem to be moving. Fingers-crossed it picks up after the new year.

[ughbugchugplug]

Any idea when to apply for Boston?

[Anonymous User]

Anyone have any intel on firms in Orange County? I am thinking of applying this month, but do not know much about timing and/or if firms are actively looking to hire clerks given the uncertainty in the market.

[Anonymous User]

Anyone have intel on Los Angeles?

[Anonymous User]

Anyone heard from Susman or MoloLamken yet?

[Anonymous User]

Can confirm some Bay Area biglaw movement

[Anonymous User]

Any movement on Hueston hennigan?

[Anonymous User]

Any movement on Hueston hennigan?

Hueston Hennigan is definitely willing to consider applications at this point

[estefanchanning]

Can confirm that HH is actively looking, but their specific needs vary depending on when you apply. Feel free to shoot me a PM and I can elaborate/help with other questions