Job Title: Paul Hastings Fellowship - Summer Associate Program
Job Responsibilities:
The Paul Hastings Fellowship offers rising second-year law students a unique opportunity to join the 2026 Summer Associate Program. The program is designed to provide a realistic view of practicing law, allowing participants to engage in substantive and challenging work assignments across various practice areas. Summer associates will have the chance to:
- Work on several projects with different lawyers in a variety of practice areas.
- Observe and assist, when possible, in trials, hearings, depositions, and negotiations.
- Participate in client meetings and closings.
- Engage in pro bono matters.
- Receive mentoring from partners and associates.
- Work in a collaborative environment.
- Attend writing skills training sessions.
- Receive guidance and detailed feedback on work product.
- Network at various social events.
- Participate in interactive training workshops, including M&A and deposition skills.
Education and Experience Information:
The fellowship is open to law students who meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment as a full-time student at an ABA-accredited law school.
- Demonstration of a commitment to promoting a culture of community, opportunity, and inclusion.
- Application and acceptance into the Paul Hastings summer program in one of the . offices.
- Likelihood to practice after graduation in one of the . offices.
- For 2L applicants, submission of a completed application by September 1 of their 2L year.
- For 1L applicants, submission of a completed application by February 1 of their 1L year.
- Not being the recipient of a similar award or stipend from another law firm.
Selection criteria for recipients include:
- Commitment to promoting a culture of community, opportunity, and inclusion.
- Academic performance in undergraduate and law school.
- Personal achievement and demonstrated leadership ability.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Community service experience.
- Commitment to succeed as a lawyer in a large, private practice environment.
- Submission of a personal statement.
Salary Information:
Recipients of the Paul Hastings Fellowship will receive a paid summer associate position with a weekly salary of $4,326. Additionally, they will receive a $50,000 award.
Application Process:
Interested candidates must submit the following materials:
- A cover letter indicating the office to which they are applying.
- A resume.
- Undergraduate and law school transcripts.
- A personal statement of 500 words or less addressing either their commitment to work in a particular practice area and the city where the Paul Hastings office is located or how they would contribute to supporting an environment aligned with Paul Hastings' culture and values.
Additional Information:
Paul Hastings is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that supports a diverse team of professionals with wide-ranging backgrounds and perspectives. The firm is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable local laws and fair chance ordinances.
