2027 1L Summer Associate (Dual Summer) - Chicago

APPLY NOW: SUMMER ASSOCIATE TWO-SUMMER OPPORTUNITY (2027 & 2028)

Ashurst Perkins Coie is accepting applications from first-year law students interested in joining the firm as summer associates for both the 2027 and 2028 summer programs. This two-summer opportunity is designed to give students a deeper, more connected experience with the firm—culminating in the opportunity to join Ashurst Perkins Coie as a full-time associate after graduating from law school.

How to Apply

Please submit the following materials:  

• Resume 

• Cover letter (include information regarding area of interest and geographic preference) 

• Undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) school transcripts 

• Law school transcript (unofficial versions are acceptable; if not available at the time of application, one must be provided as soon as available) 

• Legal writing sample (10-page maximum)  

We evaluate all applications and consider the following factors:

• Academic achievement: A demonstrated record of academic achievement and excellent writing and interpersonal skills, as well as experience that will contribute to a successful career in the legal field.

• Perspective: Life experiences that have shaped your perspectives and professional goals.

If you would also like to be considered for our Inclusive Leaders Fellowship, a highly selective opportunity offering mentorship, leadership development, and a financial stipend, please select “yes” in response to the related question in the application and include a Personal Statement with your materials. To learn more about our Fellowship, the requirements for the Personal Statement, and the financial stipend, please click here.  

About the Summer Associate Program  

Former summer associates comprise a significant portion of the new associates hired each year at Ashurst 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.

The two-summer structure allows participants to return for a second summer, building on their first-year experience with increased responsibility, deeper client engagement and relationship building, and further development of core legal skills.

About Ashurst Perkins Coie  

Ashurst Perkins Coie US LLP is an international law firm recognized for its collaborative culture, commitment to excellence, and people-first approach. Named one of the country's "100 Best Places to Work For" by Fortune for two decades, reflecting our belief that exceptional work happens in a culture of respect, growth, and inclusion.

Practice Areas Recruiting – Chicago Office  

• Complex Litigation

• Corporate

• Real Estate

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. Students should view their selection as a multi-year opportunity to deepen their expertise and contribute to the important work of the firm and practice area.

Application Deadline

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis beginning November 2, 2026. Early applications are encouraged. All materials must be uploaded in PDF format. Candidates can expect updates on their status by late January 2027.

Eligibility

All first-year students in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school are encouraged to apply. Ashurst 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 available. The compensation for this role is $18,750 per month.

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