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I’m a Batch of 2027 student from a Tier-3 NLU and will be graduating next year. I have primarily built my CV around dispute resolution and have interned with Tier-1 and some of the best Tier-2 firms in the disputes space. My work exposure has largely been in commercial litigation, arbitration, IBC, electricity disputes, and related areas. I also have a few decent publications.
Academically, however, my CGPA is only slightly above average, which has been a major source of anxiety for me lately.
Currently, I have two internships lined up, both under commercial litigation chambers founded by former partners of reputed Tier-2 firms. While I’m grateful for these opportunities, I honestly don’t know whether they will eventually lead to assessments or job opportunities.
During my 4th year of law school, I have interned for approximately 5 months across different firms and chambers. I even received a callback from one place, but after asking about an assessment, I was eventually ghosted. At present, I do not have any assessment lined up, and I genuinely feel confused about how I am supposed to secure my first job.
I understand that most Tier-1 firms generally do not hire freshers directly for disputes, and realistically, considering my CGPA and college background, I know my chances there are limited. I’m not aiming for core corporate work either — disputes is where my interest genuinely lies.
At this point, I am completely open to starting with a chamber job as well, even in the ₹25–30k range initially. My primary concern is simply getting my foot in the door and building a stable career in commercial disputes.
I would genuinely appreciate advice from:
Law firm partners
Senior associates
Freshers currently working in disputes
litigation chamber associates
Anyone who has navigated a similar path
What should I be doing in the next one year before graduation so that by the time I graduate, I am able to secure a job in commercial disputes? What practical steps should I take right now as a fresher to improve my chances?
I would be extremely grateful for any honest guidance or suggestions.
I would also request the moderators to feature this post, as I believe it could help many other students who are interested in pursuing a career in dispute resolution.