Calling all GC Lawyers....
 

Having just gone through our annual reviews at my law firm, I got to thinking about some things.....Do you think it's better, in the long run, to be a solid performer (not superstar, but holding your own) at the top firm in town or to go somewhere a little more laid back where you'd have more of a chance to become a star?

I'm happy where I am now (most of the time ;) ) but I feel like i should be weighing options and thinking about exit strategies if I'm not going to stay put forever....any thoughts?

Keeping in mind that I'm not practicing right now (I moved to a state where I'm not admitted to the bar and at first wasn't sure that I wanted to continue in the field, but now plan to take the bar in July) -- I don't think being at the "top" firm in town is important at all. Actually, I would not want to work at the top firm in town at all, but that's just me. I'd much rather be somewhere more laid back and smaller -- just because that suits my personality. If your long term goals include having a family at some point also, I'd think you'd be better off at a smaller place where the billable hour requirements might be more reasonable.

You should work for the ACLU and not want to work so hard to make a lot of money. Life isn't about money you know.

-Rudey

Ah, Rudey.....and here I was thinking you could give some actual advice! Yes, I know I have previously stated opinions about $ not being everything (and it's not), but that doesn't mean I don't want to be well-compensated for all that work....I'm just weighing options and looking for input from others who have been in similar situations.

No seriously, work at the ACLU and make enough to get by.

-Rudey
--Maybe you'll do a little good too and will finally get your priorities straight.

Believe me, I've thought about it....my former landlord was HUGE at the ACLU, then went into private practice, was extremely successfully and now is retired and living in London with his hot wife.....unforntunately, between law school debt and my mortgage, I did the math and I need to make about 75k just to "get by."

Oh my! Did you not get a job that would let you pay off your law school and mortgage very soon? I think you should just work for the ACLU and not worry about private practice and hot wifes and London. You can live in the South Bronx and save money on the mortgage and marry a client...perhaps even Mumia.

-Rudey

My criminal procedure prof did his appeal work, so I'm sure he could get me an intro!;)