Our Summer Associate Program
The Warner Way
Professor William Henderson of the Maurer School of Law at Indiana University interviewed a cross-section of our attorneys to find out what it is like to practice at the firm and captured the “Warner Way” in the following explanation:
“The Warner Way is the pervasive belief held by the firm’s professionals that the firm operates for the benefit of its clients, lawyers and professional staff; no individual or subgroup is privileged above the welfare of the entire firm. This is not a slogan; it is people’s conclusion based on years of experience.”
“The Warner Way enables people to do outstanding work in an environment that they believe is respectful, ethical, transparent and free of internal competition. It is a safe environment where people can be themselves. This creates a large reservoir of goodwill that enables stakeholders to look past imperfections and problems; it also instills loyalty and a desire to build one’s career at Warner.”
"Spending my summer interning at Warner provided a fun and fulfilling experience. Not only did I get to work with and learn from some of the most brilliant people I've ever met, I had the opportunity to develop close friendships with people at all levels of the firm. It was these opportunities for development and camaraderie that attracted me to Warner in the first place, and my experience there exceeded my expectations."
Jarrod TrombleyAssociateClass of 2018
"I spent my first summer at Warner and my second at a larger law firm. I chose Warner because they really cared about me as an individual and wanted me to be happy. Warner provides the perfect mix of challenging work and a life outside of the office. As an associate, partners and colleagues respect my time, treat me as a valued team member, and have invested in my personal development. Everyone is rooting for my success!"
Sarah HarperAssociateClass of 2018
What You’ll Do as a Summer Associate
Our Summer Associates do substantive work, not busywork. From your first week, you’ll contribute to matters that are important to our clients and to the firm, with the guidance and support you need to grow.
Real, Client-Focused Work
- Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, client letters and internal memoranda.
- Conduct legal research and analyze statutes, regulations and case law.
- Assist with transactional work, including contracts, due diligence and closings.
- Join attorneys for client meetings, depositions, hearings, negotiations and other proceedings when appropriate.
- Collaborate with attorneys across practice areas to experience different types of work.
Exposure Across Warner
- Work with multiple practice groups to help you identify where you thrive.
- Experience the culture of our offices across Michigan.
- Participate in practice group meetings, firmwide events and summer social activities.
- Contribute to pro bono and community initiatives, where available.
Mentorship, Training & Culture
We view your summer at Warner as the beginning of a long-term relationship. You’ll receive guidance, feedback and support at every step so you can build confidence and skill as a future lawyer.
Built-In Mentorship
- Dedicated mentor(s) to help you navigate the program and the firm.
- Day-to-day supervision and coaching from associates and partners.
- Informal opportunities to connect — coffee chats, lunches and practice group events.
Training & Development
- Orientation to firm systems, expectations and resources.
- Substantive trainings on key practice areas and lawyering skills.
- Workshops and conversations on professional development, feedback and career planning.
Summer Cohort Experience
- Structured summer events that connect you with attorneys and fellow summers.
- Opportunities to learn more about Warner’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
- Social and community-focused activities that highlight our culture beyond billable work.
Program Details & FAQs
Program Length & Timing
The Summer Associate Program typically runs for 10–12 weeks during the summer. Exact dates may vary by year and office, and we work with students to coordinate timing around academic schedules where possible.
Compensation
Summer Associates receive competitive compensation that is in line with the market for our geographic footprint. Specific details are provided during the recruiting process.
Assignments & Workload
Assignments may come through a centralized system, practice groups or directly from attorneys. You can expect a mix of short research projects and longer-term matters so you can see your work through to completion. We encourage you to be proactive in seeking assignments in areas that interest you.
Evaluations & Offers
You will receive feedback on your work from supervising attorneys throughout the summer. At the end of the program, we evaluate performance, professionalism and overall contribution to determine potential offers to return as an associate after graduation.
What We Look For
We’re looking for law students who are not only strong on paper, but who also bring curiosity, integrity and a collaborative mindset to their work.
Academic & Technical Skills
- Enrollment in an ABA-accredited law school.
- Strong academic performance and demonstrated writing ability.
- Excellent research, analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Attention to detail and sound judgment.
Personal Qualities
- Professionalism and strong communication skills.
- Ability to work well in teams and build relationships.
- Initiative, responsiveness and a willingness to take on new challenges.
- Alignment with Warner’s values, including client service, integrity and inclusivity.
Ready to Launch Your Career at Warner?
If you’re looking for a summer experience that combines substantive work, meaningful mentorship and a collegial culture, we invite you to apply to the Warner Norcross + Judd Summer Associate Program.
For questions about the program or the application process, please contact our recruiting team at recruiting@wnj.com.