2027 1L Summer Associate (Dual Summer) - Phoenix

Perkins Coie•Phoenix, AZ

7d•Hybrid

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 designed to provide a connected experience with the firm and may culminate in an opportunity to join the firm as a full-time associate after law school graduation. Summer associates perform substantive legal 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; and participate in professional development and social events. The second summer builds on the first-year experience with increased responsibility, deeper client engagement and relationship building, and further development of core legal skills. The Phoenix office is recruiting summer associates for Complex Litigation and Real Estate. Associates are hired into a specific practice area, and applicants are encouraged to explain how their background, skills, and interests connect to their preferred practice. Transfers between practice areas are uncommon. Applications are considered on a rolling basis beginning November 2, 2026, and candidates can expect status updates by late January 2027. The position pays $18,750 per month and is not benefits-eligible, although paid holidays are available.

Requirements

Be a first-year student in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school.
Demonstrate academic achievement and excellent writing and interpersonal skills.
Have experience that can contribute to a successful career in the legal field.
Submit a resume, cover letter identifying area of interest and geographic preference, undergraduate and graduate transcripts if applicable, law school transcript when available, and a legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages.
Applicants seeking consideration for the Inclusive Leaders Fellowship must indicate interest in the application and submit a Personal Statement with their materials.

Nice To Haves

Relevant academic or professional background, skills, and interests related to the selected practice area.
Life experiences that have shaped the applicant’s perspectives and professional goals.
Interest in the Inclusive Leaders Fellowship, which offers mentorship, leadership development, and a financial stipend.

Responsibilities

Conduct 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.
Develop legal skills and client relationships in the selected practice area across two summer programs.