Washington, D.C. Summer Associate Program

Our Washington, D.C. 2L Summer Associate Program offers an immersive look at Kirkland’s culture and life at the Firm within one of the city’s most established and dynamic legal offices. As a summer associate, you’ll quickly become part of the team — contributing to meaningful work, gaining exposure to a range of matters and building relationships through mentorship, training and networking events. You’re encouraged to follow your interests and take ownership of your experience as your work grows in depth and responsibility.

You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in our 1L Summer Experience — building a foundation for your 2L summer as you explore practice areas, connect with attorneys and begin shaping your path at Kirkland.

To complement hands-on work experience, summer associates in the Washington, D.C. office also participate in a variety of training, mentorship and development opportunities, which may include:

• Kirkland Institute for Trial Advocacy (KITA), our nationally renowned mock trial program
• Training sessions covering the nuts and bolts of litigation, how to prepare openings, closings, direct and cross-examinations, and how to use documentary evidence and demonstrative aids
• Weekly summer speaker series featuring members of Firm leadership, key practice group leaders, notable Kirkland alumni, influential clients and other legal luminaries
• Legal writing seminar designed to teach writing as zealous client advocacy, going beyond analyzing legal issues and opinions
• Mock negotiation experiential learning program with attorneys serving as dedicated coaches

A significant component of our program is getting to know Kirkland attorneys and fellow summers. Your time with us is filled with engaging and enriching events, which may include:

• Tours of Washington, D.C.’s historical sites and monuments
• Receptions at partners’ homes
• Supreme Court visit
• Outings to concerts or plays
• Nationals baseball game
• Yacht cruise
• Wellbeing event such as a group exercise class
• Activity-based classes such as cooking or painting