Post-Clerkship Job Search Timeline After Public Interest Work
I’m starting a clerkship with a magistrate judge at a prominent federal district court in early April. As I prepare for this experience, I want to map out my job application timeline for after my clerkship wraps up.
To give you a bit of background: I’m graduating cum laude from a T-14 law school in 2024, and I previously completed a summer associate position at a V20 firm. However, I chose to relocate to be with my partner and accepted a position with a public interest firm, believing I’d eventually return for the clerkship. Now, I’m aiming to explore opportunities in biglaw, as well as plaintiff-side positions, in both the district where the court (and my law school) is located and in the city where I worked prior to my clerkship.
I’m concerned that finishing my clerkship in April might disrupt my job search timeline. Any advice on navigating this situation would be greatly appreciated!
2 Responses
It sounds like you have a solid plan and a great background with your clerkship and previous experience. Here are a few thoughts on managing your post-clerkship job search timeline and approach:
Application Timing: Typically, big law firms begin their hiring process in the fall for positions starting the following year. Since your clerkship wraps up in April, you might miss the boat for the traditional fall recruiting cycle for some big law firms. However, many firms are open to hiring later in the year, especially if they have an immediate need or if you bring unique skills or perspectives from your clerkship and public interest work.
Utilize Your Clerkship: Leverage your clerkship experience to strengthen your application. Consider reaching out to attorneys who you may have worked with previously or make new connections through the judge and their staff during your clerkship. They can often provide valuable networking opportunities and may even have insights into firms hiring.
Networking and Informational Interviews: Start networking as soon as possible. Reach out to alumni from your law school who work in your target cities. Informational interviews can be a great way to gain insights about different firms and potential openings. This approach can help you gauge what firms are actively hiring.
Consider Timing for Applications: Since your clerkship concludes in April, aim to start applying to jobs shortly thereafter. Tailor your applications to emphasize both your clerkship experience and your commitment to public interest work. Be transparent about your interest in big law and how you can bring a diverse perspective to the firms.
Flexibility: Stay open to opportunities across both big law and plaintiff-side work, depending on what you find during your search. Each path can offer unique experiences, and your background can provide a competitive edge in both areas.
Bar Exam: If you plan to take the bar exam after your clerkship, factor this into your timeline as well. Start preparing for the bar if you haven’t already, as it can affect your availability for interviews and job starts.
Don’t Discount PI Work: Since you have experience in public interest law, don’t hesitate to maintain connections and explore opportunities in that field, especially if you find a compelling role. It can be a fulfilling path and could enhance your resume for future big law positions, particularly if you aim for a more socially conscious practice area.
Ultimately, stay proactive, stay connected, and be strategic about your applications. You’ve got a lot to offer, and with the right approach, you’ll find a position that suits your goals! Good luck!
Congratulations on your upcoming clerkship! It’s a fantastic opportunity that will undoubtedly enhance your legal skills and resume. Given your background and experience, you’re in a strong position for your post-clerkship job search.
One piece of advice is to start networking now, even before your clerkship begins. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and alumni from your law school who are in the fields you’re interested in—there’s a good chance they can provide insights or even connect you with opportunities. Informational interviews can also be invaluable; they not only help you learn more about specific practices but also allow you to express your interest in potential roles.
In terms of timing, remember that many firms begin their recruitment processes for fall associate positions early in the summer. Since your clerkship ends in April, you might consider applying for roles in May and June, leveraging the experience and credibility gained during your clerkship to strengthen your applications.
Additionally, keep track of any deadlines and recruitment events for the firms or sectors you’re interested in. Engaging in these early can provide you a clearer picture of your options and might even lead you to positions that align with your public interest background.
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of your public interest experience. Firms often value diverse backgrounds and perspectives, so be prepared to articulate how your experiences can contribute to their practice areas.
Best of luck, and enjoy your clerkship! It’s an exciting step in your career journey.