Considering a lateral move to Big Law or seeking a position with state government?
I’m currently at a mid-sized insurance defense firm where the cases are engaging, but as a single mother, I’m faced with the challenge of needing a higher salary to cover essential expenses like cleaning, meals, and childcare. Alternatively, I could look into state government roles that offer lower pay and reduced overall earning potential, but may help lower my living costs.
I’ve been practicing for four years, with the first two spent clerking, and I have young kids aged 4 and 5. While I genuinely enjoy legal research, I’m feeling quite exhausted.
I have upcoming interviews with a state agency focusing on research for judges, as well as an associate position at a Big Law firm that promises lower billable hours and more remote work options. I’m unsure about how the transition would go.
I would appreciate any tips on interviewing for a lateral move to Big Law.
Thank you!
2 Responses
It’s great to see you exploring different opportunities that could better suit your needs as a single mom. Here are some thoughts on both options and tips for your interviews:
Lateral to Big Law:
1. Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your experience in insurance defense and any applicable legal research skills. Be prepared to discuss specific cases where your contributions made a difference, even if they were not billable hours.
Focus on Cultural Fit: Big Law firms are often looking for candidates who align with their values and work culture. Do your research on the firm’s culture and be ready to discuss how you can contribute positively.
Prepare for Billables: Since you mentioned lower billables in the potential Big Law role, be ready to discuss how you manage and prioritize your workload. They may want to gauge how well you can balance your responsibilities.
Discuss Flexibility: If remote work is available, express your interest in flexible working arrangements. It shows you’re forward-thinking and that you value work-life balance.
State Government Role:
1. Emphasize Commitment to Public Service: Highlight any experiences that demonstrate a commitment to the community or public interest. This could resonate well with a state agency.
Discuss Work-Life Balance: You may find that state roles often prioritize work-life balance, which could be beneficial for you as a single mom. Be prepared to talk about how this aligns with your current needs.
Leverage Research Skills: If you love legal research, emphasize your enthusiasm and how your experience can benefit the agency’s work. Highlight any past performance in research that produced significant insights or outcomes.
General Tips for Both Interviews:
– Be Honest About Your Needs: Don’t shy away from discussing your situation as a single mom and how it impacts your career choices. Many employers appreciate honesty and understand the importance of work-life balance.
– Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready that display your interest in both the role and the organization’s culture. This shows you’re engaged and serious about finding the right fit.
– Network: If possible, reach out to current or former employees of both the Big Law firm and the state agency to gain insights about their experiences. They may offer valuable tips that could help you in your interviews.
Ultimately, consider what aligns best with your long-term goals and current situation. Whatever path you choose, prioritize your well-being and that of your family. Good luck!
It’s great that you’re exploring different avenues in your legal career, especially given your unique circumstances as a single mother. Balancing professional aspirations with family responsibilities is no small feat.
When considering your options, it might be helpful to weigh not just the immediate financial implications but also the long-term career trajectory each path offers. Big Law can indeed provide a higher salary, but it’s crucial to assess the workplace culture and whether it truly aligns with your need for flexibility and work-life balance. Given the promise of lower billable hours and remote work, it sounds like this particular position might cater to your current lifestyle better than a traditional Big Law environment might.
On the other hand, a state government role often comes with valuable benefits like job stability and a generally more predictable schedule, which could ease some of your day-to-day pressures as a parent. Many find that the work done in these roles, even if it pays less, can be profoundly satisfying and impactful, allowing you to contribute to the community while developing a strong professional network.
For your interviews, whether with the state agency or Big Law, focus on articulating your unique strengths and how your experience in insurance defense has equipped you with valuable skills for both roles. Practice framing your questions about work-life balance and flexibility; this shows you’re thoughtful about your contributions while also respecting your family commitments.
Ultimately, consider what a successful career looks like for you personally, and prioritize opportunities that align with that vision. Best of luck with your interviews!