Expert: Sally A. Kane - 2/12/2009

Question
Hello, I am writing about my 27 year old son. He graduated with honors from Brown University, majoring in both International Relations and Political Science. He then went on to law school and graduated with honors again, this past May. He also passed the bar in both RI and Mass. the first try. The problem is that there are no jobs to even apply for at an entry level. He was very much admired at his school and has been given excellent references for the 2 interviews that he has been on since graduation. But it is like being a needle in a haystack of applicants. In both cases he just missed out on being hired. What can he do in this horrible economic time. Soon another group of graduates will flood the market where no jobs are available. Thanks for any ideas.

Answer
Dear Lynn,

It is a tough job market and sometimes the hardest job to find is your first.  Legal employers today want candidates that can hit the ground running because they lack the time and resources to train new lawyers. Your son might try contract work, pro bono or volunteering at a law clinic to gain valuable experience.  He should join his local and/or state bar associations to make contacts.

This article - "6 Ways to Gain Work Experience" - explains some other ways to get your foot in the door: http://legalcareers.about.com/od/jobsearch/a/Test.htm

With a little luck and perseverance, your son will find employment soon!

Sally A. Kane, Esq.
About.com Guide to Legal Careers
http://legalcareers.about.com/