'Big Law' jobs question?

[ludano17]

I've read that a large number of law school graduates try and get jobs working for the large law firms, since they pay well and most graduates have a large amount of student debt.

However, I want to know if people actually enjoy working for the big law firms... other than the financial aspect. If the financial aspect wasn't there, would you still want to work there? Or would you do something else?

E.g. assuming you would get paid the same amount, wouldn't you rather prosecute or defend criminal cases, or litigate personal injury, than work in Mergers and Acquisitions or something like that at a large firm?

[hyun-su]

My boyfriend wants to do tax law, and tax law can be practiced at any sized firm, really. From his perspective, why NOT go into biglaw? If you'd rather do public interest work, then biglaw may not be for you or even necessary to pay back your loan, as some schools have debt forgiveness for PI law.

Other than the money, biglaw has two major advantages. One - employment there is considered very prestigious. Most attorneys in biglaw do not get on the partner track and leave after a few years. While paying down your loans, you're getting impressive work experience that will help you get hired where you actually want to work. Two - speaking of partner track, this is the golden ticket in law.

[dubh35]

Working at a major law firm with will you the spring board to work anywhere else. Specially if the Law Firm is well known.
Solicitors and Defend Law carries long hours in court. The best practice is to have your own practice.
I went into Federal Law enforcement after my law school. The best decision of my life.
To answer your question. Personal Injury are much common than any other departament.