redsox4516
New Member
Ah, yep, good point.
OK, I assume that if you went through the ass pain and expense of law school, you actually want to be a lawyer. I know the JD job market isn't great, but you're much better off getting some experience in the civilian law world (even if not as a practicing attorney) than you are trying for a very slim chance getting into JAG.
How are you're law school grades? Are you coming out of a top 25 program? Top 50?
Top 50. (Its on the bubble). I had a job lined up, but the firm merged. It was either me, or someone else who had worked there for years, who wouldn't have a job so I agreed to start looking for a new job. Everyone who I have spoken to has said to get a job in a law related field, since it is damned hard to find a job as a lawyer. (One of my professors, who is a Federal Judge suggested I try to become a probation officer.) But that doesn't seem as promising a prospect. Also, I really want to serve my country. I went into the recruiter to talk about the reserves, but It is clear I can't have my cake in being a naval reserve officer and an associate at a firm. That's why I'm applying now. Only reason I asked is because of what the recruiter said.
Good catch...missed that bit about previous rejections for JAG...which could be significant to a lat transfer attempt.
Would it help or hurt my chances?
Just to be clear, there is nothing wrong at all with coming in with the goal of laterally transferring to JAG if that's what you're really after. And yes, it can absolutely be done. But.....you knew there was a but, right....but, you have to do so with your eyes wide open and giving 100% to whatever your current function is. If you come in thinking you're just passing through and giving anything less than your best, you will get eaten alive...no matter if you're a pilot, NFO, SWO, or whatever.
On the bright side, you'll be the XO's BFF.
My eyes are wide open. I've wanted to serve in the navy longer than i've wanted to be a lawyer. If i go in as an NFO or SWO, it will be to be a NFO or a SWO, not on the hopes of some future possible transfer. (My eyes are too bad to be a pilot).
I am also burned out by law school. I want to do something else with my life other than sit behind a desk all day. Something with more meaning than racking up billable hours. In hindsight I probably should have done things differently.