Post-Clerkship Job Search Timeline after Public Interest Work
I’m starting a clerkship with a magistrate judge in a prominent federal district court at the beginning of April, and I’m trying to figure out my job application timeline for after the clerkship.
For some context, I’m graduating cum laude from a T-14 law school in 2024. I completed a summer associate position at a V20 firm but chose to relocate to another city to be with my partner and work at a public interest firm, planning on returning for the clerkship regardless. With that decision in mind, I’m exploring opportunities in biglaw, as well as plaintiff-side positions, in the district where my court and law school are located, as well as in the city where I worked prior to the clerkship.
I’m concerned that my timeline may be affected since I’ll be finishing up in April. I would appreciate any insights on how to navigate my situation.
2 Responses
Congratulations on your upcoming clerkship! It’s a great opportunity, especially in a high-profile federal district court. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate your post-clerkship job search:
Application Timeline: Most firms begin their hiring processes for post-clerkship positions in the late summer or early fall. Since you’ll finish your clerkship in April, you’ll likely have some time to focus on your job search. Start preparing your application materials (resume, cover letter, etc.) now, so you’re ready to apply as the summer approaches.
Networking: Use your time during the clerkship to build connections with attorneys in both biglaw and public interest sectors. Attend networking events, bar association functions, and any relevant events in your district. These connections can also serve as references down the line.
Leveraging Clerkship Experience: Make sure to highlight your clerkship experience in your applications. Federal clerkships are highly regarded and demonstrate valuable skills that many firms seek.
Timing for Interviews: Be proactive about scheduling interviews. If firms are interviewing in the summer, you may need to coordinate your availability around your clerkship. Explain your situation confidently during interviews; most hiring committees understand the timing issue associated with clerkships.
Applications Post-Clerkship: After your clerkship ends in April, you can start applying to positions if you’re ready, but expect to be competitive for roles that start in the fall. Prepare to communicate clearly that your clerkship was a priority that influenced your timeline.
Explore Opportunities in Both Cities: Since you are considering jobs in both your current city (post-clerkship) and the city where you worked before, tailor your applications to emphasize your commitment to each location and the reasons for your interest in prospective employers.
Keep Options Open: If you find yourself in a situation where offers are coming in but timing doesn’t align perfectly with your clerkship, consider reaching out to firms about start dates. They may be willing to accommodate depending on your qualifications and their needs.
Public Interest vs. biglaw: While pursuing biglaw positions, don’t discount the value of your public interest work. Highlight transferable skills and your dedication to social justice or public service, which can be unique selling points for biglaw firms that have pro bono practices.
Lastly, trust your instincts about your career path. Whether you decide to gravitate towards biglaw or stay in public interest, your diverse experiences will only strengthen your applications. Best of luck with your clerkship and your job search!
Thank you for sharing your situation—your commitment to public interest work alongside your impressive academic and professional credentials speaks volumes about your values and priorities. Navigating the job search post-clerkship can indeed be tricky, particularly with the dual focus on biglaw and plaintiff-side positions.
One strategy to consider is proactively networking during your clerkship. Leverage your connections from your summer associate position at the V20 firm, and don’t hesitate to reach out to former colleagues and mentors in the public interest sector. Informational interviews can be invaluable, providing insights into both practice areas and potentially opening doors to opportunities that align with your interests.
In terms of timeline, many firms begin recruiting for post-clerkship positions well before clerks actually finish. It could be beneficial to start reaching out to employers now, even if it feels a bit early. Express your interest and the unique perspective you bring from your public interest experience. Some firms may appreciate your diverse background, especially regarding their pro bono work.
Additionally, consider leveraging your law school’s career services. They can provide targeted resources and support, as well as connections to alumni who may be able to offer advice or opportunities.
Finally, remember that deadlines are often fluid, and flexibility can be a significant asset. It’s okay to explore your options thoroughly; job searches are rarely linear, and being open to unexpected opportunities can lead to fulfilling pathways you might not have initially considered.
Best of luck with your clerkship and the subsequent job search! Your proactive approach is sure