Aspiring lawyers should show their unique skillset and avoid treating all big law firms alike, an insider says.
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Law school graduates pursue a vast range of careers, from family law to technology law to the frontlines of social justice. Some choose not to practice law at all.
Among those pursuing a private sector legal career, many hope to join a global law firm helping high-profile clients with multifaceted legal issues. On-campus recruitment for law firm positions can be extremely competitive. Many law students work hard for the opportunity to distinguish themselves as a law firm summer associate.
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Raj Shah is a partner at DLA Piper, a global law firm with more than 4,000 lawyers operating in more than 40 countries. Beyond his work counseling notable companies in complex litigation, Shah chairs DLA Piper’s Chicago Litigation group and the Partnership Nominations Committee.
As the co-national hiring partner for associates, Shah shares with U.S. News his advice for aspiring lawyers contemplating a career at a major law firm. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Q: What do law firms like DLA Piper look for in the law students they hire? Is there anything that candidates too often overlook?
We focus heavily on intellectual curiosity – the general willingness and eagerness to dig in and learn about the client, its business goals and objectives, and the matter at hand.
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