2027 1L Summer Associate (Dual Summer) - Portland

Perkins Coie • Portland, OR

7d

About The Position

Ashurst Perkins Coie is accepting applications from first-year law students for a two-summer associate opportunity in its Portland office, covering the 2027 and 2028 summer programs. The program is designed to provide a connected experience with the firm and culminates in the opportunity to join as a full-time associate after law school graduation. Summer associates join the Complex Litigation practice and receive substantive research, drafting, analysis, and client-facing assignments 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 firm social events. In the second summer, participants build on their first-year experience with increased responsibility, deeper client engagement and relationship building, and further development of core legal skills.

Applicants should identify their area of interest and geographic preference in a cover letter and explain how their background, skills, or interests connect to the selected practice. Applications are considered on a rolling basis beginning November 2, 2026; early applications are encouraged. All materials must be uploaded in PDF format, and candidates can expect status updates by late January 2027. The role pays $18,750 per month and is not benefits-eligible, although paid holidays are available. Applicants may also request consideration for the Inclusive Leaders Fellowship, a highly selective opportunity that includes mentorship, leadership development, and a financial stipend.

Requirements

• Be a first-year student in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school.
• Demonstrate academic achievement, excellent writing and interpersonal skills, and experience relevant to a successful legal career.
• Submit a resume, cover letter stating area of interest and geographic preference, undergraduate and graduate transcripts if applicable, law school transcript (unofficial accepted; provide as soon as available if not available at application), and a legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages.
• Upload all application materials in PDF format.

Nice To Haves

• Life experiences that have shaped the applicant’s perspectives and professional goals.
• For Inclusive Leaders Fellowship consideration, indicate interest in the application and submit a Personal Statement.

Responsibilities

• Perform legal research, drafting, and analysis.
• Work on client-facing projects alongside attorneys and mentors.
• Attend hearings, client meetings, depositions, and deal closings.
• Participate in pro bono matters and professional development activities.
• Develop client engagement, relationships, and core legal skills across two summer programs.

Benefits

• Paid holidays are available; the position is not benefits-eligible.
• The Inclusive Leaders Fellowship offers mentorship, leadership development, and a financial stipend for selected participants.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed