Considering a Move to the West Coast
I’m feeling pretty burnt out after my recent transition and am thinking about relocating, potentially to San Francisco or Los Angeles. I graduated from a T20 law school and have experience as a clerk for a circuit court, participated in the DOJ honors program, and litigated at the trial court level in DC. The only connection I have to California is family on my wife’s side. I did summer at a reputable firm, but apart from that, I don’t have extensive big law experience.
Do you think I’d be competitive in either of those markets? Are there other locations I should consider that are thriving right now? I actually enjoy living in DC, but the job market here is extremely tough. Plus, I haven’t looked for a position in years.
I appreciate any insights you can share!
2 Responses
It sounds like you have a solid background with your T20 law school, circuit court clerkship, and DOJ honors program. Those credentials will definitely make you competitive in either the SF or LA markets, especially if you have a good summer experience, even if it wasn’t in big law.
However, the legal markets in California can be quite competitive, so it would be beneficial to network proactively if you decide to pursue opportunities there. You might consider reaching out to alumni from your law school who are practicing in California to gather insights and potentially get referrals.
As for other markets, you might want to look into cities like Seattle, Denver, or even Austin, which have been seeing growth in the legal sector and a less saturated market compared to the coastal cities. It could be worth exploring those options, especially if you still enjoy DC or are open to other environments.
Given your background, you could also position yourself well for practice areas in demand on the West Coast, like tech, IP, or environmental law.
Lastly, take advantage of any connections you have in California and keep your options open. Good luck with your decision!
It’s great to hear you’re considering a move to the West Coast! Given your background, I believe you have a solid foundation to be competitive in both the San Francisco and Los Angeles markets. Your experience in litigation and prestigious roles like the DOJ honors program will certainly stand out, especially as many firms value diverse experiences beyond just big law.
One thing to consider is networking. Even though you have family connections in California, I’d recommend leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the field. Engaging in local bar association events—virtually or in person—can also help you gain insights into the market and potentially lead to job opportunities.
Additionally, while Los Angeles is known for entertainment law, it also has a growing tech scene, which may offer some interesting litigation roles, especially with tech companies. San Francisco tends to be more competitive, especially within the big firms, but your T20 pedigree can give you a significant advantage.
If you’re open to exploring other locations, keep an eye on markets like Seattle or Austin. Both cities are experiencing growth in legal markets due to a surge in tech companies and startups, creating opportunities for younger lawyers looking to establish their careers.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of work-life balance when considering relocation, especially if you’re feeling burnt out. A location with a robust legal community, supportive culture, and a lifestyle that aligns with your personal values can significantly impact your job satisfaction.
Good luck with your decision! It sounds like an exciting new chapter ahead!