US Summer Associate Program

How will Dechert’s summer program empower you to achieve your highest potential? Our summer associates get to choose and explore those areas that interest them most, rather than rotate through predetermined practice groups.

You have the option to focus on projects from just one or two groups, or to sample work from a variety of practice areas. Your assignments, including pro bono work, will be important work for real clients, and we strongly encourage summer associates to proactively learn, engage and contribute by offering their own insights and ideas.

You’ll have the opportunity to attend board meetings, closings, depositions, trials and negotiations. We integrate our summer associates into substantive client work, from diligence for a major transaction to researching and writing for a litigation brief. Formal hands-on training includes mock negotiations and deposition workshops. 

We’re also proud of our robust mentoring program and critical skills curriculum, where we offer sessions and assistance on vital topics such as time management and public speaking through the firm’s Speaker Society. Dechert’s social gatherings and summer events provide a welcome chance to interact with your colleagues informally.

At the core of our firm’s culture is a dedication to seeking and nurturing diverse viewpoints and experiences in order to develop the highest caliber of talent, leadership and service. Summer associates are invited to join our affinity groups, and all are encouraged to attend the groups’ frequent speaker programs. Championing diversity isn’t just a catchphrase for us – our efforts include a long-standing commitment to combatting systemic racism and advancing social justice. We invite our summer associates to join us in making a difference through meaningful pro bono work. 

Throughout your ten weeks at Dechert, we will provide you with guidance and feedback, and we’ll encourage you to seek out what you find most exciting and challenging. Our ultimate goal is for you to experience what it’s like to be a part of our vibrant, warm, and supportive community.