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I did transactional work for two years following graduation, and now I am clerking for a district judge. The transactional work was purely securities. I even got to do some securities litigation while I was there because they were so understaffed and I was a breathing associate (they also knew I was interested, but I doubt that was the reason).

I would like to return to biglaw but to do litigation. I knew I wanted to do litigation since law school, but I was placed in the group and could not switch out. So instead of lateraling, I went for the clerkship with hopes to reset and return to biglaw.

Any advice on how to approach the application cycle? Can I play this to my advantage somehow, or at least not have it negatively impact me (as much)? I am not too worried that firms wont believe I want to do litigation, just more concerned about being three years out and not having litigation experience (other than some sec. lit., pro bono stuff, and clerking). Some people have suggested being willing to drop a class year, and I think that I might not have a choice. Do any former clerks have similar stories they can share?

If you're clerking on a D. Ct., it shouldn't be difficult to convince them you want to litigate.

Anonymous User wrote:I am not too worried that firms wont believe I want to do litigation, just more concerned about being three years out and not having litigation experience (other than some sec. lit., pro bono stuff, and clerking).

lavarman84 wrote:If you're clerking on a D. Ct., it shouldn't be difficult to convince them you want to litigate.

I agree. More concerned with competing against other clerks who have litigation experience. And if they don't have litigation experience because they are one year out of law school, than they are cheaper than me. Also concerned with firms not being interested or looking at me as a risky candidate.

Yeah, I think you're not crazy to be concerned. I'd want to hear from folks with more on-point experience, but you should perhaps be prepared to express a willingness to drop a class year.