New to practice groups after my clerkship? Seeking advice.
I’m a 2023 law graduate currently looking for positions after my COA clerkship wraps up. This will be my first experience in a law firm setting, as my previous roles have been in government litigation and a non-litigation government position after graduation. Ideally, I would like the opportunity to explore various practice areas for a year or two before settling on a specific path, but I’m concerned about jumping into a role as a healthcare associate or something similar without a broader understanding.
From what I’ve gathered, many firms prefer to slot junior attorneys into a specific practice group, and unfortunately, the areas I’m most interested in don’t seem to be hiring at the moment.
So, I’m curious about the flexibility available to explore other practice areas once assigned to a specific group. It appears that first-year associates may have some freedom to explore, but I know that options typically narrow as you advance. Should I focus on securing a position at any firm and then work on building relationships with partners in different areas to facilitate a transition? Or is it more realistic to assume that if I start as an associate in healthcare, telecom, or energy, I’ll primarily be working on that type of legal work? Any insights would be appreciated!
One Response
It’s great that you’re thinking strategically about your career as you transition from your clerkship to a law firm. It’s common for firms to place new associates into specific practice groups, and it can certainly feel limiting—especially if you have diverse interests.
Here are some thoughts to consider:
Initial Commitments: Generally, many firms do expect associates to focus primarily on the practice area they’re hired into, especially in their first few years. That said, there can be flexibility depending on the firm culture and workload in different groups.
Exploration Opportunities: Some firms have programs aimed at allowing associates to “rotate” through different practice areas or participate in cross-disciplinary projects. Inquire about this during interviews; it demonstrates your interest in versatility and might indicate a more open culture.
Building Relationships: Yes, establishing relationships with partners and associates in other areas can be crucial. Engage with colleagues in different practice groups, express your interest in their work, and seek opportunities to collaborate. Informal projects or pro bono work often present avenues to explore other areas.
Mentorship: Seek out mentors within the firm who share your interests or who have had varied practice experiences. They can provide guidance on how to navigate your desires for diverse experiences while meeting firm expectations.
Keep Your Options Open: If a firm has a strong emphasis on your practice group of interest but you’re still concerned about narrowing too quickly, consider applying to firms that have a more generalist approach or those that encourage cross-practice collaboration.
Long-Term Mindset: Even if you start in a specific area, remember it’s possible to pivot your practice as you gain more experience. Talk to more senior associates and partners about their paths; many will have made transitions between practice areas.
Ultimately, while it’s important to be proactive about your interests, being receptive to the opportunities available in your chosen group can also lead to surprising and fulfilling experiences. Good luck with your job search!