Anyone enter big law later in their careers?
I am 35 now but considering a career change. I’ve worked over 12+ years in human resources for tech companies in SF, with steady promotions.
edit: i did take the lsat, see comments for score.
Thinking of law as a next career transition, but have a few concerns at my age. If/when I go to law school, I would be around 39/40 years old when I graduate.
- Is it too late to enter big law? I assume most law firms are just looking to hire young 25 year olds who they can mold and demand all-nighters from.
- I see many STEM people transition to law later in their careers, but I don’t have a stem background. Is that a disadvantage for my age?
How does a 40 year old 1st year associate handle the workload and pressure vs. a 25 yr old? Concerned if I’ll burn out before the younger people. I would say…. I’ve worked in intense startup environments where working long hours and occasional weekends was normal, so I’m not unused to it or opposed to it. I’ve also already experienced my share of terrible bosses and dealt with getting berated or cussed out, so I’m battle hardened. I’m a hard worker willing to put in the hours, and I know how to manage / prioritize my workload, know how to manage up, as opposed to someone younger who hasn’t had much experience doing that. Nevertheless, I am not sure about my tolerance for pulling continuous all nighters for several years at 40. FWIW, I am single currently with no intention of ever having kids, so I don’t think I’ll have any major family obligations during that time.
Fitting with the cohort of 1st year associates. Given they’re nearly half my age, just wondering how culturally we would get along. Would I just be the weird old guy in the group?
Any advice/insight appreciated, thanks!