a couple years and then moving on, I think I agree IF (and it's a big if) it's the thing you need to do to get the career you want. But it isn't necessary (and might actually be counterproductive) for many legal careers.

So, to the 808 guy (or gal) who started the conversation, I voted to go for it bc it sounded like he wanted to work for the Feds or in house at a large company. If those are your goals, then BigLaw is a great springboard - do it, save your money (to avoid the handcuffs), and use it to get the job you really want.

But if you don't want to work for the Feds or in house for a large company (and assuming you aren't one of the personalities described in this OP), it's a bad idea. It might actually hurt.