I am graduating from law school this year, and I don’t have a very strong profile or the kind of internships that would make me confident about getting a Tier-1 law firm job directly after graduation. With placements and recruitment approaching, I am worried that I may not have many opportunities with the top firms.
I am confused about how I should approach the next step. Should I still focus on applying to Tier-1 firms and try my chances, even if my profile may not be competitive enough, or would it be more sensible to start my career at a good boutique or mid-sized law firm where I may have a better chance of getting substantial work and building my skills?
How should a graduating law student in this position decide which option is better for building a strong long-term career, and what should I do over the next few months to maximise my chances of landing a good job?
It’s a dream of every corporate law enthusiast to get a job with a tier-1 law firm, but there are multiple factors that should work in your favor to make it a reality, and with the current job market situation it gets even trickier. In order to avoid such hassle, the best way is to get placed with a mid-sized firm. Although they won’t match the pay scale of a tier 1, but you will get enough opportunity to learn wider skills which no tier 1 will ever offer you. Once you spend a year or two with such a firm, there are good chances that any tier 1 will be happy to onboard you. So, at this stage focus on shortlisting boutique firms that match your practice area and try to get PPO from them.
It’s a dream of every corporate law enthusiast to get a job with a tier-1 law firm, but there are multiple factors that should work in your favor to make it a reality, and with the current job market situation it gets even trickier. In order to avoid such hassle, the best way is to get placed with a mid-sized firm. Although they won’t match the pay scale of a tier 1, but you will get enough opportunity to learn wider skills which no tier 1 will ever offer you. Once you spend a year or two with such a firm, there are good chances that any tier 1 will be happy to onboard you. So, at this stage focus on shortlisting boutique firms that match your practice area and try to get PPO from them.
