2027 1L Summer Associate (Dual Summer) - San Francisco

Ashurst Perkins Coie•San Francisco, CA

About The Position

Ashurst Perkins Coie is accepting applications from first-year law students for a two-summer Summer Associate opportunity spanning the 2027 and 2028 summer programs. The program is intended to provide a connected experience across both summers and culminates in the opportunity to join the firm as a full-time associate after law school. Summer associates are hired into a specific practice area and San Francisco office applicants may select Complex Litigation; Corporate, with a focus on Emerging Companies & Venture Capital; Projects, Energy, Environment & Resources; or Real Estate. Transfers to other practice areas are uncommon, and the program is designed to build expertise and relationships in the chosen practice. 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. During the second summer, participants can build on their first-year experience through increased responsibility, deeper client engagement and relationship building, and continued development of core legal skills. Applicants should submit a resume, cover letter describing their area of interest and geographic preference, undergraduate and graduate transcripts if applicable, a law school transcript (unofficial copies accepted initially), and a legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages. Applications are considered on a rolling basis beginning November 2, 2026, and applicants can expect a status update by late January 2027. All application materials must be uploaded in PDF format. Candidates interested in the Inclusive Leaders Fellowship may indicate interest in the application and submit a Personal Statement; the fellowship offers mentorship, leadership development, and a financial stipend. Applicants must be first-year students in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school. The position pays $18,750 per month and is not benefits-eligible, though paid holidays are available. The firm is an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

Be a first-year student in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school.
Demonstrate academic achievement and excellent writing and interpersonal skills.
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.

Nice To Haves

Experience that will contribute to a successful career in the legal field.
Life experiences that have shaped the applicant's perspectives and professional goals.
A background, skills, or interests that align with the selected practice area.

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 and client relationships, with increased responsibility during the second summer.