4 answers
Favour
Student
Derwood, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
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How do I obtain a job as an in-house lawyer for a fashion company?
I am a rising first-year college student, planning on majoring in political science with a minor in fashion. In the future, I hope to work as an in-house attorney for Chanel or Versace.
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4 answers
Terri R
Professor
24
Answers
Saint Petersburg, Florida
Updated
Terri’s Answer
Remember, it's pretty common for in-house lawyers to begin their careers in a firm before transitioning in-house. However, some law schools offer internships that let you work alongside local in-house lawyers while earning academic credit. This could be a great way for you to figure out if an in-house role is right for you (even if the counsel is not in the fashion industry). You might also want to investigate which law firms serve as external counsel for fashion brands. This can help you pinpoint the firms you might be interested in working with during summer breaks or after you graduate, and also gives you a taste of the difference between working as an external or in-house counsel. It also lets you figure out the types of law that lawyers in the fashion industry work with most often, so you can take those courses in law school.
While you will focus on internships and summer jobs primarily during law school, it's never too early to explore internships at fashion brands now for some firsthand experience. Even though you're aiming for top-tier fashion brands, starting with smaller labels to shadow or intern could be a good stepping stone. You can't carry out legal duties just yet, but an internship can still give you a feel for what it's like to work in a fashion label. Plus, it's a great way to show your genuine interest when you're job hunting in the future.
Lastly, don't forget that performing well in college will benefit you in the law school application process, and excelling in law school will boost your job application prospects. So, make sure you enjoy college while keeping your grades up! Best of luck!
While you will focus on internships and summer jobs primarily during law school, it's never too early to explore internships at fashion brands now for some firsthand experience. Even though you're aiming for top-tier fashion brands, starting with smaller labels to shadow or intern could be a good stepping stone. You can't carry out legal duties just yet, but an internship can still give you a feel for what it's like to work in a fashion label. Plus, it's a great way to show your genuine interest when you're job hunting in the future.
Lastly, don't forget that performing well in college will benefit you in the law school application process, and excelling in law school will boost your job application prospects. So, make sure you enjoy college while keeping your grades up! Best of luck!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Favour
Kelly Stewart
Attorney - Commercial
1
Answer
Washington, Washington
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
As an in house lawyer (although in technology, not fashion), I agree with Terri 100% , so I won't repeat her advice. But it sounds like you are off to a great start. Your choice of major and minor show a focus on your long term goal. Of course, college is for expanding your horizons and getting the best general education you can get. Who knows, you may end up finding something that interests you even more.
In college, you need to work hard and make good grades to get into a law school of your choice. Then in law school, you have to study even harder to stand out. It's tough but you need to prioritize your course work, even if it means living the life of a poor student and going without some things. A lot of kids get sidetracked with jobs, or other personal activities, and then find that their grades are not good enough to help them progress to the next level. You should have fun at college but just remember to put your school work first. Remember, it's only for a few years; when you reach your goals, you'll be glad you made the sacrifices.
Good luck!
In college, you need to work hard and make good grades to get into a law school of your choice. Then in law school, you have to study even harder to stand out. It's tough but you need to prioritize your course work, even if it means living the life of a poor student and going without some things. A lot of kids get sidetracked with jobs, or other personal activities, and then find that their grades are not good enough to help them progress to the next level. You should have fun at college but just remember to put your school work first. Remember, it's only for a few years; when you reach your goals, you'll be glad you made the sacrifices.
Good luck!
Thank you!
Favour
Niki Kaplan
Contract drafting and negotiation
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Niki’s Answer
Consider exploring the possibility of an internship at a fashion company. The role doesn't necessarily have to be law-related. After law school, you could aim to join a law firm that caters to clients in the fashion industry. It's often a smoother transition to start at a law firm before moving on to become an in-house attorney for a company. Remember, if your initial jobs don't align with the fashion sector, don't hesitate to once again pursue a career in fashion. If your passion for this industry is genuine, it will undoubtedly shine through during an interview with a fashion company. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Favour
Natasha Rampy-Martorelli
Attorney
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Natasha’s Answer
Hello Favour,
The world of in-house legal departments is a fascinating blend of legal know-how and business acumen. I highly recommend immersing yourself in both law and business courses during your college years. If you have the opportunity to work part-time in the fashion industry, seize it! It will provide you with invaluable experience.
As you move forward to law school, think about pursuing a JD/MBA. This dual degree will give you a competitive edge. Post-graduation, you might notice a preference for applicants with prior law firm experience in in-house legal departments. But don't let this deter you. Remember, it's perfectly okay to start your journey in a law firm if that's what's immediately available after you graduate.
Keep your eyes on the prize - an in-house role in the fashion industry. It's a worthy long-term goal. Meanwhile, never stop networking. Join in-house organizations like the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) to build connections and learn from others in your field.
Keep going, Favour. You're on the right path. Best of luck!
The world of in-house legal departments is a fascinating blend of legal know-how and business acumen. I highly recommend immersing yourself in both law and business courses during your college years. If you have the opportunity to work part-time in the fashion industry, seize it! It will provide you with invaluable experience.
As you move forward to law school, think about pursuing a JD/MBA. This dual degree will give you a competitive edge. Post-graduation, you might notice a preference for applicants with prior law firm experience in in-house legal departments. But don't let this deter you. Remember, it's perfectly okay to start your journey in a law firm if that's what's immediately available after you graduate.
Keep your eyes on the prize - an in-house role in the fashion industry. It's a worthy long-term goal. Meanwhile, never stop networking. Join in-house organizations like the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) to build connections and learn from others in your field.
Keep going, Favour. You're on the right path. Best of luck!
This was super helpful, thank you!
Favour