Contract Work as Brief Writer?

[Anonymous]

Have a background in appellate work. A headhunter recently contacted me about a contract job writing briefs. It seems flexible, basically I could make my own hours. Of course, Id be leaving my firm position. Im ok with the pay and benefits cut, but looking for feedback from others who have done work like this?! Also, is this a career killer? Id like to return to full time practice when my kids are older and in school...but right now, Id love more time with them.

[Anonymous]

Man, this sounds awesome to me. I'm a gov't appellate atty, and I'd love to do it on a contract basis while my kids are little (and while I figure out what I want to be when I grow up).

[Anonymous]

Have you checked with your own firm to see if you can create this position in your firm? I was a big law part time partner and I only worked on appellate briefs. It was great until #3 came along and there were just too many demands on my time.

[Anonymous]

This sounds like the dream job! I know people who have done something similar in different fields. One worked in legal aid and got part-time work doing appellate briefs for a few years while her kids were young. Another was a sort of eccentric work-from-home criminal defense attorney who handled appeals only. Not really contract brief writing because he did have direct clients, but basically the same thing in terms of flexibility.

I don't think it would be a career killer if it's in a subject matter area that is relevant. Of course you are stepping off the all-in career path, but this seems like a good way to do it.

Only caveat - make sure this isn't too good to be true. Are you going to be guaranteed a certain amount of work? Is it for a legitimate business?