How should a law student or young attorney decide which large law firm they should work for?
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We asked two attorneys in the United States how a law student or young attorney should decide which large law firm they should work for. They told us that it depends on what the attorney is looking for in their career, but they should get along with their peers at a large firm if they want a good experience. Attorneys should research the firm they are applying for before they appear for their interview. Knowing the criteria as well as the culture of the firm will save you time and hopefully reward you with a fulfilling career in the long run.
It is rather simple. The best advice I got in law school was from a partner in a large law firm. He told me that all large law firms are basically the same - the work is the same, the pay is the same, the bonuses are the same and the hours are the same. What matters most is the people. If you get along with the people you meet during interviews, pick the firm. If you don't, go to the next one. Ultimately you work long hours and you need to get along well with the people you work with to make working in a large firm a good experience.
It's all about knowing yourself and what you want from your legal careerand, ultimately, your life. Are you looking to get experience in a certainarea of law? Is making lots of money your most important criteria? Do youwant to work with nice, chill people and avoid the "screamers"? Is billing3,000 hours a year a turn-on or a turn-off for you? Knowing your answers tothese questions before you begin your job search will save you tons of timeand make your career more fulfilling in the long run.When considering aspecific firm, be diligent and do your homework first. Google it. Ask people on the inside for their honest feedback. Sure, not everyone may be willing to give their full disclosure, but it'sdefinitely worth your time. After all, it is only your future!
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