2027 1L Summer Associate (Dual Summer) - Seattle

Perkins Coie•Seattle, WA

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Ashurst Perkins Coie is recruiting first-year law students for a two-summer associate opportunity in 2027 and 2028. Participants return for a second summer to build on their initial experience through increased responsibility, deeper client engagement and relationship building, and further development of core legal skills. The program is intended to culminate in the opportunity to join the firm as a full-time associate after law school graduation. Summer associates receive substantive work—including research, drafting, analysis, and client-facing projects—alongside attorneys and mentors. They may attend hearings, client meetings, depositions, and deal closings; work on pro bono matters; participate in professional development; and attend social events. Associates are hired into a specific practice area, and transfers to other practice areas are uncommon. The Seattle office is recruiting for Complex Litigation, Corporate, Projects, Energy, Environment & Resources, and Real Estate. Applications are considered on a rolling basis beginning November 2, 2026. Candidates can expect status updates by late January 2027. The role pays $18,750 per month and is not benefits-eligible, though paid holidays are available.

Requirements

Be a first-year student in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school.
Submit a resume, cover letter stating area of interest and geographic preference, undergraduate and graduate transcripts if applicable, a law school transcript, and a legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages.
Demonstrate academic achievement, excellent writing and interpersonal skills, and experience that can contribute to a legal career.
Applicants are evaluated in part on life experiences that have shaped their perspectives and professional goals.

Nice To Haves

Applicants may request consideration for the Inclusive Leaders Fellowship by answering yes to the related application question and submitting a Personal Statement; the fellowship offers mentorship, leadership development, and a financial stipend.
Applicants are encouraged to select a practice area that aligns with their academic or professional background, skills, and interests, and to explain the connection in their application materials.

Responsibilities

Perform legal research, drafting, and analysis.
Work on client-facing projects alongside attorneys and mentors.
Attend hearings, client meetings, depositions, and deal closings.
Work on pro bono matters.
Participate in professional development activities and firm social events.
Build practice-area expertise, client engagement, relationships, and core legal skills over two summer programs.