We're guessing you already know what law firm summer programs are all about.
So let's cut to the chase.
Joining Our Team – U.S. summer experience
Here's what you can expect during a summer with Orrick:
- Real Client Work From week one, you’ll be immersed in the work we do – meeting clients, attending court proceedings and negotiations, working on issues at the core of our clients’ business strategies. We will check in regularly to make sure you are getting a range of substantive assignments in the practice areas that interest you. You’ll of course have the opportunity to take on pro bono work.
- Mentoring and Coaching We’ll set you up with formal and informal associate and partner mentors, as well as our in-house legal writing coach.
- The Orrick Academy Our Summer Associate Academy is a two-day boot camp covering what it takes to succeed as a lawyer. Discussions will be led by Orrick lawyers and market experts on client service, networking, team building, negotiations and understanding the business of law. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to connect with Orrick summer associates from across the country.
- Building Lasting Connections You’ll have a full calendar of social and community activities where you’ll have fun, give back and build relationships that we hope will last a lifetime.
What We Look For
Orrick lawyers have demonstrated a commitment to being the best at what they do – and have unique experiences under their belts. In our conversation with you, here’s what we want to know:
- How have you shown initiative? What challenges have you overcome?
- In what type of culture do you thrive? What’s your approach to teamwork?
- What drives you to do excellent work? What do you value most about the opportunity to practice law?
- What’s something you taught yourself recently? What’s your strategy to build rapport with someone new?
We know you may be considering many options, so here’s what makes us stand out:
- We hire summer associates directly into practice areas based on targeted needs, so you’ll be able to hit the ground running.
- We have an innovative client fellowship program open to our 2L Summer Associates, where you’ll be able to spend part of your summer working with clients like Roblox, Capital One, Xcel Energy and Sony.
- Our summer program is nationally recognized. In 2026, Vault ranked Orrick #13 in “Best Summer Associate Programs.”