What does a Summer Associate do?
Published 3 min read
A summer associate is a student who works at a law firm for a summer.
Summer Associate job duties include:
- Research and investigate potential cases
- Work with clients to gather information and evidence
- Prepare legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, and appeals
- Conduct discovery, including taking depositions
- Attend hearings, trials, and mediations
- Help develop strategy for cases
- Negotiate settlements
- Manage projects and deadlines
- Maintain client relationships
- Keep up-to-date on changes in the law
Summer Associate Job Requirements
A Summer Associate is typically a law student who is hired by a law firm to work during the summer months. The job requirements for a Summer Associate vary depending on the law firm, but most firms require that the applicant have at least a 3.0 GPA and be in good standing at their law school. Some firms may also require that the applicant have completed certain courses, such as contracts or constitutional law.
Summer Associate Skills
- Analytical
- Proactive
- Communication
- Leadership
- Organization
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
- Flexibility
- Creativity
- Teamwork
- Time management
Related: Top Summer Associate Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Summer Associate
A Summer Associate is a position typically held by a law student between their second and third years of law school. The position is generally full-time and lasts for ten weeks. Summer Associates are given the opportunity to work on various types of legal projects and to attend various educational and social events.
The best way to become a Summer Associate is to start by doing your research. Talk to your career services office, professors, and upperclassmen to learn about different firms that offer the position. Once you have a list of firms that you are interested in, reach out to them and express your interest.
The application process for a Summer Associate position can vary depending on the firm. However, most firms will require you to submit a resume, cover letter, and law school transcript. Some firms may also require you to submit writing samples or take a skills test.
Once you have submitted your application, the firm will review your materials and decide whether or not to invite you for an interview. The interview process for a Summer Associate position is similar to that of a regular attorney position. You can expect to be asked questions about your experience, why you are interested in the firm, and what type of work you are looking for.
After the interview process is complete, the firm will make a decision on whether or not to offer you the position. If you are offered the position, congratulations! You have officially become a Summer Associate.
Related: Summer Associate Resume Example
Related: Summer Associate Interview Questions (With Example Answers)