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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]above PP -- I have asked and they do not have it in the budget... sadly.  I know a few lobbyist - should I try for a non JD lobby position?  Then hope my JD comes in useful later on?[/quote]

Yes. The law school experience, ability to write and understanding of the law and the legislative process will all come in handy even in a lobbying position that isn't with a law firm. 
[/quote]

It is rare to be able to jump in as a lobbyist without having experience on the Hill or perhaps as a political appointee in a federal agency.  And even if you're able to get a lobbying job based on your JD, it won't be a great job and it won't have much upward potential since the valued aspect of being a lobbyist isn't necessarily knowledge of the legislative process, but having connections with key lawmakers and staffers.  Anyone can learn the process; it's much tougher to cultivate relationships.

I highly, highly advise you to move away from the D.C. area and the East Coast.  There are so many graduates from top schools in this area that the competition is so stiff.  If you move to the mid-West or South (a major city like Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Miami, perhaps even Denver), you'll have a lot more options.  I know so many people who are graduates of state universities, then 3rd (or even 4th) tier law schools who are now partners at AmLaw 100 firms in cities like these.  They never would have gotten a foot in the door at the same firm here in D.C.

I also graduated cum laude from AU (back when it was in the top 50).  I worked in a fed agency (not a popular or sexy one) for a few years after graduating, then left the area.  I had opportunities I never would have dreamed of in D.C. (I'm not even sure I could have found another legal job in D.C.).  My best friend in law school couldn't find a job in D.C. after graduating, so she moved back home where she immediately got a job with a respected regional firm and is now very successful.[/quote]

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