Summer Associate Program
Our Summer Associate Program is designed to let you “try us out” for a short-term work experience. As a summer associate, you will learn about the inner workings of our firm and become an important part of our team. We think you will like the experience.
WORK ASSIGNMENTS
Summer associates are introduced to each of our teams. This will give you a chance to learn about the range of our legal services and how we get our day-to-day jobs done.
Since Graham & Dunn is a mid-size firm, you also will be given challenging assignments that would otherwise be handled by newer associate attorneys. For example, you may meet with clients and participate in strategy sessions. You also may draft documents, write briefs, help close transactions and prepare for trial. And you may attend and participate in depositions, trials, arbitrations, and clients’ shareholder and board meetings.
MENTORSHIP
You will be paired with a mentor who can be a great resource for guidance and support—both at Graham & Dunn and as you finish school. Throughout the summer, you will also receive formal and informal evaluations from the attorneys with whom you work.
PLENTY OF FUN
While we work hard, we also like to have fun. You will have many chances to get to know the attorneys and staff here through our diverse after-hours activities. Typical events include weekly softball games, dinners with associates and partners, Mariners games, beer and wine tastings, barbeques, and other outdoor activities that take advantage of summertime in Seattle.
At the end of the summer, you will have an accurate picture of the exciting work environment, rewarding relationships and inclusive culture that make us a unique and inviting place to pursue your career.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many summer associates does Graham & Dunn usually hire?
We typically hire one or two second-year summer associates each year. The number usually equates to the number of entry-level attorneys we plan to hire for the following year.
What qualities is Graham & Dunn looking for in its summer associates?
We seek dynamic individuals with outstanding academic achievement, strong writing and analytical abilities, and demonstrated leadership capabilities. Law review, journal membership and moot court experience are desirable, but are not required. We have no fixed minimum for GPA or class rank, and instead consider an applicant’s overall background, achievements and experiences.
What materials should I submit to be considered for a summer associate position?
Send a cover letter, resume, law school and undergraduate transcripts, and a writing sample (no more than 10 pages) to: Recruiting Director, Graham & Dunn, 2801 Alaskan Way, Suite 300, Seattle, WA 98121 or HR@grahamdunn.com.
We hire most summer associates through on-campus interviews, but we encourage all qualified and interested students available to interview in the Pacific Northwest to submit materials. Please contact your career services center to determine if Graham & Dunn will be conducting interviews at your school.
When are my application materials due?
If Graham & Dunn is interviewing on your campus, please contact your career services center for the due date. Applicants from all other schools should submit their materials no later than August 30 for the following summer, and should be available to interview in Seattle at some point during the first two weeks of September. If you attend school outside of Western Washington and we elect to interview you after reviewing your application, we will make every effort to schedule your interview before you return to school for the fall.
Can I split my summer with another firm?
Our summer program is a 10-12 week program. We need to see a significant amount of work product from a summer associate to determine whether we will extend a permanent offer. Therefore, we discourage splitting summers and will consider it only in extraordinary circumstances.
How does the review/evaluation process work?
Summer associates receive regular feedback from the attorneys with whom they work. In addition, we provide two formal evaluations during the summer—a mid-summer review and a final evaluation. The final evaluation includes a review of at least two substantial pieces of work product on client matters created by the summer associate.
How much partner contact is there? Are partners accessible?
All summer associates will work with partners. Our open-door policy encourages frequent interaction among all lawyers. All of our attorneys are happy to discuss any matter of concern with a summer associate, whether it is a legal issue, a difficult assignment, or questions about the firm.
