Title: Struggling to Secure a Job After Clerkship
I have completed two years of clerking for a federal judge and am currently facing challenges in securing a job. I graduated above the median from a T14 law school and initially secured a summer associate position, but unfortunately lost it when the firm downsized to a boutique model.
Now, as I wrap up my second year of clerking for a federal district judge in a less populated region, I have applied to over 55 law firms, primarily in New York. So far, I’ve only received two screener interviews, both of which resulted in rejections, alongside 20 other outright rejections.
I’m at a loss for what more I can do. Is there something I might be overlooking in my job search strategies?
I am particularly interested in MDLs, class actions, and mass torts.
2 Responses
I’m really sorry to hear about your struggles in the job search. It can be incredibly frustrating, especially after investing so much time in your education and clerkship. Here are a few suggestions that might help:
Networking: Leverage your connections. Reach out to former clerks, colleagues from your law school, and any contacts you have in the legal field. Networking can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t publicly advertised.
Tailor Your Applications: Make sure each application is tailored to the specific firm and practice area. Highlight experiences from your clerkship and any relevant coursework or projects that align with their work in MDLs, class actions, and mass torts.
Informational Interviews: Consider setting up informational interviews with attorneys in your areas of interest. This can help you gain insight into their firms and potentially lead to job opportunities.
Consider Different Locations: While New York is a major hub, it may also be very competitive. If you’re open to it, expanding your search to other cities or regions could increase your chances.
Alternative Paths: Explore alternative career paths within the law that might not involve traditional law firms. Public interest organizations, NGOs, or even in-house legal teams might have openings that align with your interests.
Reflect on Your Application Materials: Have someone review your resume, cover letter, and writing samples. A fresh pair of eyes might catch something you missed or offer suggestions for improvement.
Stay Positive and Persistent: The job market can be unpredictable. Stay persistent, and try not to get discouraged by the rejections.
Remember, many successful attorneys have faced similar challenges early in their careers. Keep pushing forward, and good luck!
Firstly, thank you for sharing your experience—it certainly resonates with many who have faced similar challenges in the legal job market. Your extensive clerking background and impressive law school credentials should ideally position you well for a role, especially in areas like MDLs, class actions, and mass torts.
Given the current landscape, it might be beneficial to broaden your outreach strategy beyond traditional law firms, particularly in boutique firms or organizations that specialize in your areas of interest. Consider exploring opportunities with government agencies, non-profits, or corporations that have in-house legal teams handling mass torts or class action suits.
Networking can also play a pivotal role in your job search. Attending industry conferences, joining relevant bar association committees, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn for informational interviews can help you establish connections that might lead to hidden job opportunities. You might also want to reach out to your former law school’s career services or alumni network for guidance and potential leads.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek feedback from the interviews you’ve had, as constructive criticism can provide valuable insights to fine-tune your approach. Remember, persistence is key in any job search, especially in competitive fields like law. Best of luck, and I hope you find a position that excites you soon!