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[quote=Anonymous]Two years ago I was fired from my small firm (after working there for five years) for not bringing in enough business.  I started my own practice doing what is apparently referred to now as shit-law (thanks Above the Law) which includes lots of criminal defense, much of it court appointed.  I'm respected in my community by other lawyers and judges but I HATE my work.  I just think the criminal justice system is so screwed up and I'm tired of participating in it.  There are so many lawyers right now that it is hard to get enough business to keep up a full-time practice anyway.

I've had some experience lobbying informally at the state level and am really interested in the policy side of things.  I've volunteered at policy organizations now for about 18 months to learn more about policy reform and really enjoy feeling like I'm doing something productive.  Unfortunately, there is no staff turn over at the places where I volunteer.  I've applied to a bunch of non-profits that do criminal justice or drug reform and I've had no luck whatsoever.  I even hired a career counselor to make sure I wasn't sending out crappy resumes and cover letters or applying to jobs for which I was totally unqualified--I wasn't.

I am at my wit's end.  I don't know what else to do.  My husband could care less if I work and says he wants me to be happy.  I miss doing something I enjoy and that is intellectually stimulating; I want to work.  I know I am lucky to have a supportive husband and that I have time to spend with my girls, but I miss working.  Should I go back to school and get a Masters of Public Policy?  I hate to take on more educational debt.

I am so angry too.  I know the work I do is considered bottom feeder type lawyering, but I work really hard for my clients and I am good at what I do.  I have good research and writing skills and I am a capable public speaker.  Shouldn't the fact that I can do a jury trial (and win sometimes!) be even a little bit impressive to potential employers?  Isn't anyone impressed that I take the time to volunteer to learn new skills?  
 
I know I am privileged, but it is hard not to feel demoralized when you get rejected over and over for jobs at which I know I'd be good.  Even if I'm not the smartest person, I always work hard.  Does anyone have any suggestions before I throw myself out a window?  What else should I do?  What has worked for you all?[/quote]

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