K&L Gates Law Firm is seeking a talented and driven 2L summer associate to join our team in Kansas City for the 2026 summer program. Our firm values diversity and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a summer associate at K&L Gates, you will have the chance to work on challenging and impactful projects while receiving mentorship from experienced lawyers. With a focus on the Energy Infrastructure and Resources practice area, this position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Corporate M&A and Real Estate.
Position: 2L Summer Associate
Location: Kansas City
Salary: $3, to $4, per week (prorated based on first year associate salary)
Duration: 8-10 weeks, beginning in May or June 2026
Application Deadline: Rolling basis after May 1, 2025
About K&L Gates Law Firm:
- Global law firm with lawyers located across five continents in more than 40 offices
- Ranked among the largest . based law firms in the world
- Committed to innovation, imagination, and an entrepreneurial spirit
- Strong focus on diversity and inclusion
- Strong commitment to pro bono work and community service
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
- Work closely with experienced lawyers in the Energy Infrastructure and Resources practice area
- Receive active mentoring and learn about clients, practices, lawyers, and culture of the firm
- Gain hands-on experience in Corporate M&A and Real Estate
- Work on challenging and impactful projects
- Receive regular formal and informal feedback on performance and developmental progress
- Interact with partners and associates during informal social activities
- Participate in training and development programs designed to enhance knowledge and technical skills
- Work on client matters and pro bono cases similar to those of first and second-year associates
- Attend court appearances, arbitrations, depositions, trials, client meetings, and other key events
- Receive insight through written evaluations and mid-summer and end of summer reviews
Qualifications:
- 2L law student, graduating in the Class of 2027
- Strong interest in the Power practice group
- Superior academic credentials and excellent written and oral communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Commitment to providing the highest quality of client service
- Personal connection to the Kansas City region is a plus
Application Process:
- Submit resume, law school transcript (link provided to update after receipt of spring semester grades), cover letter, and writing sample
- Applications reviewed on a rolling basis after May 1, 2025
- Application remains open until program is filled
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How do I apply if you don't interview at my law school?
You may submit an application online through our careers page.
- What's the typical agenda for an office interview?
The interview format varies among offices, but generally, you will meet with four to six lawyers with diverse experiences and practices. Be sure to identify your practice areas of interest beforehand.
- Will I be reimbursed for travel expenses?
Yes, reasonable travel expenses approved by the Regional Recruiting Manager will be reimbursed. Keep receipts and submit a NALP Travel Reimbursement Form.
- When does the summer program start and how long does it run?
The program typically runs for 8-10 weeks, beginning in May or June. Ask the Regional Recruiting Manager for this year's program dates.
- Does the firm allow split summers?
We prefer full summers in one office, but consider requests to split within K&L Gates offices on a case-by-case basis.
- Will I be assigned mentors?
Yes, mentors will assist with work assignments, professional development, and serve as a resource during your time at the firm.
- What type of training can I expect to receive?
The firm's Professional Development Department develops a new curriculum each year to enhance knowledge, technical skills, and transition to practicing lawyer.
- What type of work can I expect?
Work on client matters and pro bono cases similar to first and second-year associates. Shadowing opportunities may also be available.
- What type of feedback can I expect to receive?
Informal feedback from mentors and other lawyers, written evaluations, and mid-summer and end of summer reviews.
- Is there a billable hours expectation?
No, but summer associates typically bill between 25-35 hours per week.
- Will I have the opportunity to work on pro bono matters?
Yes, encouraged to participate in pro bono assignments.
- Will I receive insurance benefits?
Insurance and other benefits are not provided to summer associates.
- How many summer associates receive permanent offers?
Our goal is to make offers to all summer associates who demonstrate potential to succeed as a K&L Gates lawyer.
- What types of social activities can I expect?
The firm arranges a variety of social activities throughout the summer program for summer associates and lawyers to get to know each other.
- Do you hire 1Ls?
A select number of offices hire 1Ls. Check our careers page in early November for more information. For the 2025 Summer Program, 1L applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis after December 15, 2024, and the application period will close on January 31, 2025.
- Do I have to choose a practice area at the beginning of the summer?
We encourage exploration of various practice areas throughout the summer.
- How will I receive work assignments?
The work assignment process varies by office and practice group. Partners and more experienced associates may assign work within each practice group.
Join our team at K&L Gates and make the transition from student to lawyer. Apply now for this exciting 2L summer associate position in Kansas City.
