2027 1L Summer Associate (Dual Summer) - San Francisco
About The Position
Ashurst Perkins Coie is seeking first-year law students for a two-summer associate opportunity in its San Francisco office, with participation in both the 2027 and 2028 summer programs. The program is intended to provide a connected, multi-year experience and culminates in the opportunity to join the firm as a full-time associate after law school graduation. Summer associates receive substantive legal work, including research, drafting, analysis, and client-facing projects, working 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. In the second summer, participants build on their first-year experience through increased responsibility, deeper client engagement and relationship building, and further development of core legal skills. Associates are hired into a specific practice area. San Francisco recruiting areas are Complex Litigation; Corporate, with a focus on Emerging Companies & Venture Capital; Projects, Energy, Environment & Resources; and Real Estate. Applicants are encouraged to identify the practice area that best fits their background, skills, and interests and explain that connection in their application. Transfers between practices are uncommon, and the program is intended to build expertise and long-term connections in the selected practice. Applicants must be first-year students in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school. Applications are considered on a rolling basis beginning November 2, 2026, and early applications are encouraged. Candidates can expect status updates by late January 2027. Application materials must be uploaded in PDF format. 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, law school transcript (unofficial versions acceptable; if unavailable at application, provide one as soon as available), 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 successful legal career.
- Applicants are evaluated in part on life experiences that have shaped their perspectives and professional goals.
Nice To Haves
- Applicants are encouraged to select a practice area that matches their academic or professional background, skills, and interests, and explain the connection in their application materials.
- For consideration for the Inclusive Leaders Fellowship, applicants may indicate interest in the application and include a Personal Statement; the fellowship offers mentorship, leadership development, and a financial stipend.
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.
Benefits
- Paid holidays are available; the position is not benefits-eligible.
- Compensation is $18,750 per month.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
