... attend, the higher in your 1L class you need to be ... />
Transferring is largely based on 1L grades since they show your ... until you receive your fall 1L grades and then if your ...
They are, just not as much as your 1L grades. The general consensus is that you need to have been in the realm of possibility the first time around to transfer somewhere. Of course if you end up #1 in your class that changes the calculus a bit.
Route #2 is highly insecure. It doesn't matter what promises your firm will make you, especially at a firm that can get the cream of the crop lawyers. Focus on getting a good LSAT score, going to a good school, and networking during your 1L summer.
@Cverdugo is spot on with his example. "Rivals" only matters of they are closely ranked. Fsu vs UF for example. As he said, you will get laughed at trying to use Michigan State as a bargaining chip against Michigan...