Related Posts
Bowl Leader
Additional Posts in Ask A Recruiter - Law
New to Fishbowl?
Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
Sign Up to see all discussions
- Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
- Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
- Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
"" is an unusual email domain. If correct, please proceed to the next step
Messaging rates may apply
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
New to Fishbowl?
Download the Fishbowl app to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
Share
Embed this post
Copy and paste embed code on your site
Preview
Download the
Fishbowl app
Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile
Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl
Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl
Messaging rates may apply
certainly not ideal, and you should avoid it unless the second opportunity is meaningfully better or materially changes your career trajectory. Once you accept an offer, there is an expectation—if not always a legal obligation—that you intend to follow through.
That said, it does happen, especially when timelines overlap. Firms understand that candidates are making important career decisions, though they likely won’t be thrilled. The biggest risk is reputational, particularly if the legal community in your market is small or if the same recruiter is involved.
If you do decide to withdraw, act quickly, be direct, and be professional. A concise explanation is sufficient—you don’t need to over-explain. Thank them sincerely, apologize for any inconvenience, and let them know you’ve decided to pursue another opportunity that is a better fit for your long-term goals.
In short: not catastrophic, but not something to make a habit of. Handle it thoughtfully, and most people will move on.
Did you use AI to write this?
It’s bad but your career is far more important than a law firm’s feelings. They will move on and find someone else meanwhile you are happy at the other firm making a name for yourself as you develop in your career. What’s worse is that you miss out on a better opportunity, or at least one that’s a better fit for you, simply because you didn’t want to ruin your reputation with one specific firm. There are tons of other firms out there. Sure, people talk, but this legal field also knows when someone is just being petty. This stuff happens and people move on. What is important is to make sure that you are at peace with your decisions. If you are more interested in another firm, and they end up extending the offer, take it. Whatever happens, you got this. Wish you the best.
I took a position in law school, and had to withdraw from an offer in another market. I couldn’t turn down the opportunity because it was better. Situations will arise in life. Do what’s best for you, and try to ease it the best you can by letting them know as soon as you finalize the other opportunity. If a situation came up with them that required moving away from you or delaying your hire, they would do what’s best for the firm and call it a “business decision” + people will talk regardless. Just be professional, expect for a partner to call you asking why you changed (if they are invested), and maybe never hearing from anyone else on the email chain again/not receiving a reply.
I have wondered what the most appropriate manner would be to handle a situation like this.
Are you pushing the second firm along and communicating your pending offer? I wouldn’t do anything until you get an offer from the firm in process. Withdrawing an acceptance is a terrible look and terrible reputationally but ultimately you need to be where you are happiest.
So you have a firm offer of a job vs. the prospect of another job elsewhere. I’m sure you know the expression, “A bird in the hand…”. Take the job that has been offered to you. I’m sure it’s a good opportunity, or why would you have applied in the first place.
Especially since you’ve already been given an extension. The firm that has given you the offer and the extension has demonstrated good employee relations. You want to work at a firm that treats their employees well. Sounds like the right choice has already been made.