Family law 2L summer wages

[osgoodenough]

I have received my offer for my 2L summer law job at a boutique (but small) family law firm downtown Toronto. The pay works out to $15.5/hour for 3 months. This rate seems very low to me. What do you all think? Should I try to negotiate for more? What is the average salary in this field for summer students?

[LMP]

A little on the low side, but not unheard of for smaller firms. I don't think there's any harm in gently negotiating, but at this point in the summer you don't have much leverage. 

[Whist]

I agree that it seems low, but not unheard of. I’m not in Toronto but I’ve seen it here. I personally wouldn’t negotiate given the short work term and that they could probably find someone else to take your spot for that wage. It’s also already May so unless you have other leads I’d take the job. 

[Aurelius]

I would take it. Focus on the future, you can talk about this experience if family law happens to be your jam in future job opportunities.

[SNAILS]

Mine works out to $21 (crim/family; small boutique not in Toronto). But the difference between what you get and what I get means nothing long term. It's mostly for the conections and experience.