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Job Description:
Perkins Coie is accepting applications from first-year law students interested in joining the firm as a 2L Summer Associate for the Summer of 2027.
How to Apply
Please submit the following materials:
Resume;
Undergraduate, graduate (if applicable), and unofficial law school transcript (if law school transcript not available at the time of application, one must be provided as soon as available);
Writing sample (maximum 10 pages); and
Cover letter describing your areas of interest and geographic preferences.
About the Summer Associate Program
Our Summer Associate Program is the primary path to full-time associate hiring at Perkins Coie. Summer Associates receive meaningful, substantive work—research, drafting, analysis, and client-facing projects—alongside skilled attorneys and mentors. Our Summer Associates regularly attend hearings, client meetings, depositions, and deal closings, and can work on pro bono matters, as well as participate in professional development activities and attend social events that help build lasting relationships across the firm.
About Perkins Coie
Perkins Coie LLP is an international law firm recognized for its collaborative culture, commitment to excellence, and people-first approach. The firm has been named to Fortune’s Best Places to Work list for 23 consecutive years, reflecting our belief that exceptional work happens in a culture of respect, growth, and inclusion.
Practice Areas Recruiting – Palo Alto Office
Commercial Litigation
Trademark, Copyright, Internet & Advertising – This position is litigation-focused and is not intended for those interested in trademark and copyright prosecution. Candidates do not need a technical degree or scientific background to be considered.
Summer Associates are hired to join a specific practice within the firm. Applicants are encouraged to select the practice area that best matches their academic or professional background, skills, and interests, and to describe this connection in their cover letter and application materials. While we understand interests may evolve, transfers to other practice areas are uncommon.
The summer program is designed to help students build a solid foundation in their chosen area of law and develop meaningful, long-term connections within that practice.
Application Deadline
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis beginning January 5, 2026. Early applications are encouraged. All materials must be uploaded in PDF format.
Eligibility
All first-year students in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school are encouraged to apply. Perkins Coie is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status, or any other identity.
Compensation and Benefits
This position is not benefits-eligible; however, paid holidays are provided. Monthly compensation for California is $18,750.
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