Lana Oconnell
Law students typically intern at BigLaw firms during the summer after their second semester of law school. These internships usually last around 10 weeks, starting in mid-May and running until late July or early August. They are highly sought after as they are often stepping stones to almost guaranteed post-graduate employment, with most firms aiming to offer 100% of their summer associates full-time positions. While the competition is stiff, the perks are attractive, including a typical weekly pay of $3,500 and extravagant perks. For undergraduates, it can be harder to find internships in the legal field, with most large law firms not offering legal internships for undergrads. However, some law firms do offer internships in other areas of business or marketing, which can provide valuable insights into the culture and workings of a law firm.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nature of the internship | Paid and prestigious |
| Internship duration | 8-12 weeks |
| Internship start date | Mid-May |
| Internship end date | Late July |
| Internship pay | $3,500/week |
| Internship application deadline | February and March |
| Internship application process | On-campus interviews at top law schools |
| Internship application restrictions | No formal applications before December 1 |
| Internship eligibility | Upper-level law students |
| Internship location | Flexible |
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What You'll Learn
Summer internships
Large law firms, or BigLaw firms, typically start their summer programs in mid-May, running into late July, or sometimes starting in late May and ending in early August. These dates may vary depending on the location and firm. The programs usually last around 8-12 weeks and are paid, with weekly salaries of approximately $3,500.
Summer associate positions are highly sought after as they offer a unique opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the firm, its clients, practice areas, and work environment. They also provide a chance to network and build relationships with attorneys and future colleagues.
To secure a summer associate position, law students should start their search early. While formal applications may not be accepted until after Thanksgiving, students can begin networking and reaching out to alumni as early as November. Most large law firms recruit summer associates through on-campus interviews at top law schools, but some also accept referrals and applications.
During the summer internship, it is important for students to remember that they are constantly being evaluated, and the program is essentially an extended job interview. Students should aim to attend all trainings, practice group presentations, and social events to make the most of their experience and increase their chances of receiving a job offer at the end of the summer.
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Internship perks
Summer associate positions at BigLaw firms are highly sought after by law students. These internships are typically held during the summer after the second semester of law school and are often a stepping stone to almost guaranteed post-graduate employment.
BigLaw summer associate programs offer a range of perks and benefits that make them attractive opportunities for law students. Here are some of the key perks:
Networking and Relationship-Building
BigLaw summer programs are designed to help future lawyers develop relationships with attorneys and their cohorts. This provides law students with a unique opportunity to observe and learn from practicing attorneys, gain insights into the firm's culture and people, and build a professional network.
Substantive Work and Hands-on Training
Summer associates at BigLaw firms dive into substantive work and receive quality hands-on training. They may work on billable hours, pro bono cases, writing briefs and motions, legal research, client memoranda, or corporate transactions. This practical experience enhances their legal skills and provides a deeper understanding of the law.
Exposure to Different Practice Areas
BigLaw firms often have multiple offices and practice areas, allowing summer associates to explore various legal specialties. By collaborating with different offices and practice groups, interns can discover their areas of interest and make more informed career decisions.
Generous Compensation and Perks
BigLaw summer associate positions are usually paid, and the compensation is typically quite competitive. According to some sources, weekly pay can be around $3,500. Additionally, summer associates may receive perks such as extravagant party invitations and tickets to sought-after events.
Travel Opportunities
Due to their large scale and multiple offices, BigLaw firms may provide opportunities for summer associates to travel across the country or even overseas to work on cases and collaborate with different teams. This adds an exciting dimension to the internship experience.
Overall, internships at BigLaw firms offer law students a wealth of advantages, including learning, professional development, networking opportunities, and financial benefits. These internships can significantly enhance a student's legal career prospects and provide a strong foundation for their future in the legal industry.
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Internship pay
While there is no official definition of "BigLaw", it generally refers to the largest law firms in a country by headcount, smaller firms that pay at the market rate, or medium-sized firms with international reach. Most BigLaw firms are located in major U.S. cities. Lawyers working in BigLaw are typically paid according to the Cravath system, an offshoot of the Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP pay scale.
BigLaw internships are typically aimed at law school students in their first and second years. These internships are often paid, with rates varying depending on the firm and location. Some internships may offer as much as $180,000 per year, prorated to $180,000/52 per week, while others may fall in the $1,500 to $2,500 per week range, which is below the national average.
It is important to note that the recruitment process for BigLaw internships can be highly competitive, and formal applications are usually not accepted until after Thanksgiving. However, prospective interns are advised to start reaching out to alumni and current employees at their desired firms in November to increase their chances of securing an internship position.
While BigLaw internships can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities, it is worth considering that the work can be demanding, and the internship may essentially serve as a long job interview. Nevertheless, for law students seeking to gain insight into the legal profession and potentially secure a job offer, BigLaw internships can be a worthwhile pursuit.
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Internship deadlines
The internship application process for law students seeking internships at BigLaw firms is a competitive one. While start dates vary, with some programs beginning in mid-May and others in late May, the internship deadlines are more consistent.
Most internships in law and law-adjacent areas hire the semester before, with early deadlines in December or January, and the majority of internships closing in February and March. These dates are flexible by location, but it is important to note that the December 1st timeline applies to NALP firms, which include BigLaw.
For law students, the summer associate programs are highly sought after as they are often stepping stones to almost guaranteed post-graduate employment. These internships are typically held during the summer after the second semester of law school and are usually 8-12 weeks long.
For undergraduates seeking internships in the legal field, it can be challenging as many internships are targeted at law students. However, some law firms offer internships in other areas such as business and marketing, which can provide valuable experience and an opportunity to network with attorneys.
Overall, the internship application process for BigLaw firms is a competitive and timely endeavor, with most deadlines falling in the early months of the year for internships taking place over the summer.
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Internship interview tips
While there is no specific information on when law students intern at BigLaw, there is information on internships for law students. Here are some tips for the interview stage of the internship application process:
Before the Interview
When preparing for your interview, it is important to research the firm or organization you are applying to thoroughly. This includes learning about the firm's values, goals, and notable projects or cases. You should also be prepared to discuss your resume and any gaps in your resume, such as significant gaps between jobs or schooling. In addition, you should be prepared to answer behavioral interview questions, which assess your past and future performance. These questions may be hypothetical situations or ethical dilemmas related to the workplace, and your response should showcase your strengths while also resolving the issue.
During the Interview
During the interview, it is important to showcase your skills and relevant experience, as well as stay up to date on legal developments. Be honest about your weaknesses and ask thoughtful questions. You should also be prepared to discuss specific projects or cases the firm has worked on, demonstrating your interest and knowledge of the firm's work. Ask informed questions about the firm, showing that you understand and share their values. This will help you stand out as a candidate and also allow you to determine if the firm is a good fit for you.
After the Interview
It is important to follow up diligently after the interview. This shows your continued interest in the position and can help you make a good impression.
Other Tips
- Network and foster professional relationships. Let people know you are looking for an internship and ask about potential opportunities.
- Tailor your application to the specific employer and internship, highlighting your relevant skills and experience.
- Proofread your application and resume to ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
- Be prepared to speak about why you want to intern at that specific firm and how your experience and interests will add value to the firm.
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Frequently asked questions
Start looking for internships in December or January, as early deadlines tend to fall around this time. Most internships have deadlines in February and March, but some are later.
BigLaw internships usually take place over the summer, typically lasting 8-12 weeks. They usually start in mid-May and run until late July, but some programs can start in late May and end in early August.
Law students can start applying for internships from December 1st, and formal recruiting contact, including applications, interviews, and offers, can begin.
