Summer Program and Application Information

Our summer program offers a genuine glimpse into the life of a junior associate at Latham & Watkins.

As a summer associate, you will actively contribute through our Unassigned Program, which empowers you to explore our market-leading practices and award-winning industry groups that drive the global economy, as well as participate in pro bono work. We encourage you to pursue your interests and gain valuable experience by collaborating with leading lawyers across disciplines.

Assigned mentors will be available to answer questions and guide you throughout the summer. You will engage in substantive matters and receive real-time feedback, just like a firm associate.

At Summer Academy — a highlight of our summer program — you will join summer associates from across the firm and immerse yourself in Latham culture through training seminars and social events.

Networking and relationship-building with Latham professionals are essential to your summer experience — and to your career. You will attend practice group presentations and substantive training programs as well as enjoy casual lunches and social gatherings with Latham lawyers.

We offer opportunities for law students at ABA-accredited schools to learn from some of the best in the profession, refine their skills, and develop their talents.

2L US Opportunities

2026 2L applications are open. Through Latham Early Action Days (LEAD), you can apply to our summer program from Monday, April 7 through Wednesday, April 16 at 5:00 p.m. ET. The 2026 2L general application period is Wednesday, April 16 through Friday, May 30 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

By participating in LEAD, you can receive an interview decision by Wednesday, April 30. This is a great approach if you have a strong interest in working at Latham.

• Employment Opportunities. All of the below opportunities are 2L roles within our Summer Program.
  • 2L Unassigned Summer Associate (All US Offices): All of the benefits of Latham’s Unassigned Summer Program. 
  • 2L IP Litigation Summer Associate (Select US Offices): All of the benefits of Latham’s Unassigned Summer Program, but with a dedicated focus on IP Litigation. Applications are accepted in our Austin, Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and Washington, D.C. offices. 
    • If you have any questions about the IP Litigation Summer Program, please reach out to Julia Graham.

1L US Opportunities 

2025 1L applications are closed. Sign up to be notified when 2026 1L applications open.

IMPORTANT: We offer a variety of positions based on office and practice interests. Please apply to only ONE program, as additional applications will not be considered.

• Employment Opportunities. All of the below opportunities are 1L roles within our Summer Program.
  • 1L Unassigned Summer Associate (Austin and Houston): All of the benefits of Latham’s Unassigned Summer Program. Applications are accepted in our Austin and Houston offices only.
  • 1L IP Litigation Summer Associate (Select US Offices): All of the benefits of Latham’s Unassigned Summer Program, but with a dedicated focus on IP Litigation. Applications are accepted in our Austin, Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and Washington, D.C. offices.
    • If you have any questions about the IP Litigation Summer Program, please reach out to Julia Graham.
  • 1L Transactional Summer Associate (Washington, D.C.): All of the benefits of Latham’s Unassigned Summer Program, but with a dedicated focus on transactional work. Applications are accepted in our Washington, D.C. office only.

International Opportunities

Learn more about opportunities for US law students in Hong Kong, London, and Singapore.

Selection Criteria

The application process is open to all first and second-year law students enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school, regardless of race, color, religion, citizenship, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, military service, disability, or any other characteristic or condition protected by applicable law.

Latham’s Recruiting Committee will evaluate all applications and consider the following factors:

• Academic and leadership achievements
• Life experiences that have shaped values and professional goals
• Relevant experience (academic, clinical, externship, and/or employment)
• A desire to practice at a global law firm
• If applying to an IP litigation program: relevant technical background (engineering, computer science, chemistry, biology, or physics)
• If applying to a practice specific program: desire to practice in the applicable group(s)

Application Requirements

A complete application package must include the following items:

• Completed Online Application
• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Law School Transcript
• Undergraduate School Transcript (if applying to an IP Litigation Program)