When reviewing an offer, there are several factors to consider. Some are logistical and objective, while others are more nuanced and require thoughtful reflection on your professional goals and aspirations. You may receive one offer while waiting to hear from another preferred employer.
These resources will help you navigate offer response and evaluation.
Acknowledge Every Offer
Acknowledge every offer promptly and enthusiastically—even if you need more time to make a final decision.
Responding to Offers
You may hold open a maximum of three (3) offers at one time and must decline and release any extra offer within one business day of its receipt. 2L summer offers typically stay open for 14 days.
Advice
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Holding and Responding to Offers
Timing guidelines., requesting extensions, accepting and declining offers.
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Evaluating Firms and Offers
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Researching Firm Stability
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Splitting the Summer
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Salary Information in the Private Sector
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Negotiating Offers from Small and Midsized Firms
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Logistics and Terms for Law Firms Offers
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Offer Receptions and Dinners
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Post Offer or Second Look Visits
Resources
- Sample Emails for Communicating with Employers
- Law Firm Assessment Grid (Word)
- Student Recruiting and Interview Program Policies
- Employer Recruiting Policies and Guidelines
Updates from Hire Ground
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Responding to Return Offers
If you received an offer to return to your summer firm for post-graduation employment, remember that you need to respond by October 1 (or within 28 days if the offer was made after September 2). For more information, including suggestions on what to say, visit the OCS website at Holding and Responding to Offers.
September 24, 2026
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No offer and 3L Job Search
If you did not receive an offer or received a “cold offer” from your 2L summer firm, please let us know immediately. You can reach out through a drop-in advising session or by making an appointment. You can also email ocs@law.harvard.edu and an adviser will get back to you. The earlier we know about your situation,
August 20, 2026
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Managing a Return Offer
If you received a post-graduation offer from your summer firm but are unsure if you will accept it, it is important to handle the situation professionally. Be sure to express your gratitude for the opportunity and communicate enthusiasm about the firm and the offer. Make sure you know when your employer expects a decision. If
August 6, 2026
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Timeline for Responding to Return Offer
If you have received an offer to return to your summer firm for permanent employment, make sure you are aware of the timelines for your decision. For offers made before September 2, you will have until October 1 to accept the offer (or 28 days if the offer is made after September 2). If your
July 30, 2026
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Holding Open an Offer to Pursue a Public Interest or Business Opportunity (April 1 Rule)
As you consider offers from firms this summer, review our webpage on Holding and Responding to Offers for information on timelines and requirements for responding. Full-Time offers from a past or current employer remain open until either October 1 of your final year of law school or 28 days from the date of the offer
July 30, 2026