Accepting an Offer

Most large firms follow NALP Guidelines which provide timelines within which job offers should remain open. Do not assume your prospective firm does, however. Make certain by communicating directly with them. When an offer is received, it is best to restate your interest in the firm and express your happiness in receiving an offer. If you do not wish to accept the offer when it is given, indicate to the employer that you would like to finish the remaining interviews you have scheduled. Ask when the employer must have an answer from you. If a firm does not follow NALP Guidelines, you may be required to make a decision at the time of the offer. Generally, however, firms give students at least 28 days to decide. For more complete information, please review the NALP Guidelines.

It is prudent to reconfirm your interest to an employer in order to ensure that an offer remains open. If you have been given time to conclude your other interviews, it is wise to contact the firm within 15-20 days, convey your continued interest, state that you have not yet concluded your other interviews, and restate that you will let them know your decision by a date within the 28 day limit or by the deadline date given to you by the firm.

For Judicial clerkship positions, Judges may expect candidates to accept a position on the spot. See the Judicial Clerkship section and accompanying handbook for further information.