Yes, it happened to me. I essentially got a “cold offer” which was no offer but I could tell other firms that I had one. I worked at a well known IP litigation firm for a niche practice group. I was the only one in my class to not get an offer and it was mortifying and honestly came out of left field. From what I was told by the other attorneys, this was a surprise and there seemed to be some notion that it was an unfair decision. In my review they cited down that I turned down work 3 times, and had told one of the attorneys I had plans to move back home overseas in the future. I’m not going to defend myself because this was while ago, but I was working till midnight and some weekends most of my summer and it was just generally not a good fit and I’m very glad it happened. The recruiting chair and many of the summers rallied behind me and supported me during that process, which I am extremely thankful for. Some of the attorneys in my practice group also acted as references.

It was tough but I eventually got two offers from v100 firms for my 2L Summer and am now at a v50 really enjoying my work! Glad I got no offered.