The 2022 Summer Associates Survey: Part 2

Law firms are showing signs of a return to normalcy, with many able to welcome their summer associates in person after two years of virtual programming. Survey participants lauded firms on the value — and fun — of the summer training, but the picture was not all rosy, as hiring assurances dipped below half for the first time in three years.

Law360 Pulse surveyed 670 summer associates to get the scoop on which firms had the most satisfied participants, provided the best training and did the best to capture the sense of fun and camaraderie that summer programs are known for.

These Firms Were The Top For Their Summer Associates

By Andrew Strickler  |  September 7, 2022

BigLaw summer programs got more high marks from lawyers-in-training this year, with many praising firms for copious in-person learning opportunities in the wake of the pandemic and the chance to dedicate their time to innovation projects.

Summer Associates Gain More Hands-On Training In Court

By Xiumei Dong  |  September 7, 2022

Despite the widespread adoption of remote training, law students still long for hands-on, real-world practical work experience, as the survey found more summer associates were able to accompany firm attorneys in courtroom proceedings this year.

All You Need To Know About Summers' Winning Firms

Graphic by Ben Jay  |  September 7, 2022

Which firms offer the best programs to their summer associates? How do they compare in four key areas, which we asked summers to rate based on their satisfaction? Explore firms' ability to deliver on the summer associate work experience with our interactive graphic.

Summer Programs Close In On Pre-COVID Normal

By Emma Cueto  |  September 8, 2022

Law firm summer associate programs are beginning to return to pre-COVID norms with many more being conducted in person, although firms say some of the adjustments they made to their programs as a result of the pandemic could prove to be long-term changes.

Innovation Takes Hold With Firms And Summer Associates

By Steven Lerner  |  September 8, 2022

Law firms are integrating technology training and innovation projects into their summer associate programs, with more than half of surveyed law students saying they'd been given the opportunity to work in that area.

A Law Student's Guide To Thriving As A Summer Associate

Edited by Nataleeya Boss and Lana Guggenheim |  September 8, 2022

Summer associates are expected to establish a favorable reputation and develop genuine relationships in a few short weeks, but several time management, attitude and communication principles can help them make the most of their time and secure an offer for a full-time position, says Joseph Marciano, who was a 2022 summer associate at Reed Smith.

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