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For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?

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black

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 67
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Tue Apr 18, 2006 09:21 AM
Advice needed. Got admitted last week to Stanford SPILS I hesitate with Columbia LLM (cos' in NY where I have been living for 1.5y).
I am a litigator. What 's best for me in your opinion?

[Edited 31 Mar 2007 by black]
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coco

Joined: 25 Mar 2006
Posts: 40
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Tue Apr 18, 2006 09:31 AM
You've already lived in NYC so why not try San Fran? it's a really fun place and the weather is terrific. You can't go wrong with Stanford, even if you plan to come back to NY.
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tmalmine

Joined: 02 Jan 2006
Posts: 236
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Tue Apr 18, 2006 09:41 AM
I am not at all sure about this, but does Stanford SPILS have a similar problem that Yale LL.M. program has? Is it considered a rather "academic" program? You have strong background in litigation so I don't think it will be much of a problem for you, however. I believe both would be excellent programs for you so perhaps you should take into account what Coco said: which would be nicer place for you to live? It's a tough call in any event.
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Paul

Joined: 08 Dec 2005
Posts: 90
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Tue Apr 18, 2006 02:16 PM
For me it is like comparing apples and oranges...Spils focus on a 40/50 page paper that you must write to complete the program. You will learn methodology, how to write an academic paper, present a paper, etc. Of course you can take some regular courses but you will not be able to take more than 2 in each semester. On the other hand, Columbia will allow you to take more courses. I am not saying that Columbia is a better choice but it is better that you know that. In terms of placement after the LLM, I understand that Spils students didn''t have any problem in the past. I am going to Stanford and I hope to meet you there. It is a very exclusive/unique school and I am sure you will not regret.
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IntLaw

Joined: 22 Jun 2005
Posts: 62
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Tue Apr 18, 2006 07:22 PM
"In terms of placement after the LLM, I understand that Spils students didn''t have any problem in the past."
Paul,
Would u have data on placements after LLM for SPILS program? i.e. what % of SPILS students got job offers? This would help some of us trying to make a decision. Thanks a lot.
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Lenny

Joined: 27 Mar 2006
Posts: 36
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Wed Apr 19, 2006 01:44 AM
Black, I am also a litigator and I would certainly choose Stanford SPILS. Keep in mind that Stanford is far more selective than Columbia and you should be very proud of your admission there. I belive that SPILS is a perfect complement for a litigation lawyers like us. Stanford is even more respected than Columbia, you will live in California and get a job easily. Congratulations again!!
Best regards,
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black

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 67
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Wed Apr 19, 2006 09:12 AM
Thanks to all for your replies and advice. Very tough choice to make I tell you.
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Paul

Joined: 08 Dec 2005
Posts: 90
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Wed Apr 19, 2006 08:57 PM
As I told Black in a PM, I heard that last year many SPILS students reveived offers from white shoe firms, Californian law firms, World Bank, etc. This should not be a problem...
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shearman

Joined: 12 Apr 2006
Posts: 1
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Thu Apr 20, 2006 10:15 AM
Go to Standford, 100% sure.
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black

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 67
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Thu Apr 20, 2006 08:02 PM
hey all
many people tell me that it s easier to find a job in NY when you graduate from Columbia LLM than from Stanford SPILS? I cannot get it since Stanford is higher in law school rankings and being good at academics does not mean you 're bad at writing a brief or contract, no? Does anyone know about career prospects for Stanford SPILS and their participation to career forums with the other top law schools in NY around January I believe? Thanks for your help. Few days left to decide.
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keyif

Joined: 29 Mar 2006
Posts: 60
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Fri Apr 21, 2006 08:26 AM
I think Stanford SPILS is more academic while Columbia's program is more practical. Students enrolling in Stanford SPILS are expected to teach law at their home countries in general. I think you are right, it is easier to land a job in NYC after graduation than in any other place in the US. Though Standford has an extremely good name, you need to take your career aupiration into account. I suggest you read in detail the courses offered by these two schools and thinak about what is more suitable for you. You won't go wrong either way. Stanford is TOP 3 in almost every area while Columbia is prestigious and among Ivy leagues.
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Paul

Joined: 08 Dec 2005
Posts: 90
For a litigator:Stanford SPILS or Columbia?
Fri Apr 21, 2006 08:30 AM
Dude, to turn down Stanford for Columbia is just a huge mistake. You will be probably be first student to do that...don't worry, jobs will come.
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