Welcome to our Summer Associate Program FAQs. Find answers to the questions students ask most as you learn more about our summer program!

Applications

Can I apply to more than one office?

Yes. You may apply to multiple offices. We typically have the most summer associate position openings in our Grand Rapids and Detroit offices, but we also hire in our regional offices as needed.

How do I apply?

We accept all applications directly through our applicant portal on our website.

Who should I address my cover letter to?

Please address your materials to: Katie Pullen, Hiring Partner and Kristin Williams, Recruiting Manager.

Can I apply before I have received my first semester grades?

Yes. You will have an opportunity to update your application when your transcript becomes available.

Program Logistics

Does Warner provide summer housing?

We do not provide housing. However, we will share helpful information and local housing options. Summer associates are responsible for arranging and paying for their own housing.

How long is the summer program?

Our program is 10 weeks, typically starting the third week of May.

What are your travel reimbursement guidelines?

We cover reasonable travel expenses for interviews, including airfare and hotel accommodations when needed.

Interviews

What is a typical callback interview like?

Our typical callback interview schedule includes office interviews with members of our summer associate hiring team and lunch with members of our summer associate hiring team. We’ll cover your reasonable travel expenses and hotel accommodations.

Assignments, Training & Mentorship

What kind of projects will I work on during the program?

Summer associate assignments are comparable to entry-level associate work and include substantive legal research, writing, and drafting assignments. Summer associates receive projects in a variety of practice areas, such as litigation, corporate, real estate, trusts and estates, and labor and employment.

How will my assignments be distributed?

Work will be distributed through the Job Jar (our project management system) by a project manager. We monitor workloads to ensure balanced and diverse experiences.

Will I receive feedback?

Yes. You’ll receive written, project-by-project feedback. Members of the Summer Associate Committee will also meet with you for a check-in halfway through the program and for a formal end-of-summer evaluation.

Will I have a mentor?

Yes. Summer associates are paired with three mentors at different levels. Mentors will help you navigate the firm and your work here. They will review your work, introduce you to other firm members, and serve as a general resource throughout the summer.

What training will I receive?

Summer associates are invited to a variety of training programs, including orientation sessions on firm processes and systems, writing and research workshops, practice area-specific learning sessions, and professional development and business skills training.

Firm Experience

Is there a social component to the summer program?

Yes. Summer associates are invited to a variety of events, such as dinners, receptions, team-building activities, practice group lunches, and informal gatherings with attorneys and other firm members. These events help you experience our culture and build relationships across the firm.

Can I rotate between practice groups?

Yes. Our program allows you to explore different practice areas based on your interests and the firm’s needs.

What is the expected weekly schedule?

Summer associates typically follow the standard attorney workweek and are encouraged to be in the office regularly to collaborate, learn, and engage with attorneys and peers.

Will I get to attend client meetings or go to court?

We will help identify opportunities for you to attend client meetings, depositions, hearings, negotiations, and internal strategy sessions.

Compensation & Resources

What is the compensation for summer associates?

We offer competitive, market-aligned compensation. Our 1L and 2L summer associates are paid biweekly.

What technology resources will I have access to?

You will receive a laptop with full access to our research platforms, document management systems, and the technology needed to complete your work effectively.

Pro Bono

What is your pro bono policy?

We encourage all associates to engage in pro bono work and provide chargeable hours credit for certain pre-approved pro bono work.

End-of-Summer Process

How does the offer decision process work?

At the end of the program, we evaluate each summer associate based on quality of work, professionalism, initiative and engagement, and feedback from supervising attorneys and mentors. We typically make associate offers in early August before the summer associate’s 3L year.