Law School Discussion

Mr. Roe's multiple replies contain excellent advice and are entirely accurate.  His point about asking an attorney is well taken. 

With that said, keep in mind that not every attorney will be a good fit for a large firm. I began my career at a large firm and enjoyed it.  After several years, I left that firm with a practice group to form a 20-attorney boutique. At my new firm, I work many less hours, few weekends, and the occasional late night.  I also make almost as much money as I would have if I had remained at my old firm.

Surprisingly, among the hundreds of attorneys with whom I have worked over the years, the top 5 most successful are plaintiffs' attorneys at small firms (or solo practitioners). Their income blows away all but the highest-paid partners at the large firms. Smaller firms also allow more latitude for entrepreneurialism.  When I graduated from law school, I would have been devastated had I not been offered a position with a large firm. If I had only known then what I know now....

I am an attorney who enjoys reading this board.  It reminds me of the days when I had the same fears, concerns, and preconceptions as the majority of users.  Fortunately, the practice of law has influenced, honed, and refined my thoughts, so I'll share some of those thoughts in response to the question posed. 

In law school, when I interviewed for summer clerkships and jobs with large firms, nobody asked for my LSAT.  Obviously, everyone wanted to know my GPA.

Since that time, I have practiced for 13 years as a partnership-track associate at a large firm and, then, as a partner at a well-respected and successful boutique firm. Post-graduation, not one client has asked where I attended law school (a good small school -- Valparaiso Univ. School of Law in Valparaiso, Indiana).  Not one client, colleague or judge has asked for my LSAT score (which I long ago forgot). 

Clients do not have time to focus on your Bar scores, GPA, LSAT, law review note, or Moot Court accolades.  When they hire a lawyer, clients care about (1) obtaining solid legal advice, (2) ensuring that their attorney(s) make them look good, and (3) securing efficiency and quality at a good price.   

Law firm partners (whether at a large firm or small firm) care about (1) whether you are smart enough to handle their work, (2) whether you can "juggle" projects without suffering a nervous breakdown, (3) whether you can communicate effectively with clients, potential clients, courts, and/or other attorneys, and (4) whether you perform your work efficiently and generate a profit for the firm.  Focus on these four areas, and you will be fine. 

Work very hard; seek out opportunities; and don't give up.  You'll be on your way to a successful career as a private-practice attorney, and someday, your LSAT will become only a distant memory.