2027 1L Summer Associate (Dual Summer) - Chicago

Perkins Coie•Chicago, IL

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Ashurst Perkins Coie is seeking first-year law students for a two-summer associate opportunity in its 2027 and 2028 summer programs, with the opportunity to join the firm as a full-time associate after law school graduation. Summer associates receive substantive assignments in research, drafting, analysis, and client-facing work 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. 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 position is based in the Chicago office, with recruiting in Complex Litigation, Corporate, and Real Estate. Applicants are hired into a specific practice area and are encouraged to explain how it aligns with their background, skills, and interests. Transfers to other practices are uncommon. The program is intended to help students establish a foundation in their selected area and build long-term connections within the practice. Applications are considered on a rolling basis beginning November 2, 2026. Candidates can expect status updates by late January 2027. Compensation is $18,750 per month. The role 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, excellent writing and interpersonal skills, and experience that can contribute to a successful career in law.
Submit a resume, cover letter stating area of interest and geographic preference, undergraduate and graduate transcripts if applicable, law school transcript, and a legal writing sample of no more than 10 pages.
Provide a law school transcript as soon as it is available if it is unavailable when applying.

Nice To Haves

Life experiences that have shaped the applicant’s perspectives and professional goals.
A background, skills, or interests that align with one of the Chicago recruiting practices: Complex Litigation, Corporate, or Real Estate.
Applicants seeking consideration for the Inclusive Leaders Fellowship may submit a Personal Statement and select “yes” in response to the related application question.

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, as applicable.
Participate in professional development activities and firm social events.
In the second summer, take on increased responsibility, deepen client engagement and relationship building, and further develop core legal skills.