Some say the experience is not critical to later success in the job search. Many choose to study abroad in a legal program for the summer, or attend summer school. Others believe a legal summer job helps distinguish the more potentially successful lawyer. If you have never had any legal employment of any kind, a summer clerkship after the first year which will help greatly in the second-year job search. However, there is no doubt that a legal job during the summer months between the second and third years of law school is important and can greatly influence the search for a permanent position.
Many students come to law school with substantial prior professional work experience.
At a minimum, this experience provides employers with insight into personal characteristics such as adaptability, judgment, commitment, and work style. These will have some influence on the employment decision.