Law Students

Which offices host Summer Associate Programs?

Williams Mullen's Summer Associate Program is offered in our Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Raleigh offices. Opportunities may vary by office and class year. For Summer 2027, 1L positions will be available in Richmond and Raleigh, while Summer 2028 2L opportunities will be available in Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Raleigh.

What practice areas do Summer Associates experience?

Summer associates work closely with attorneys across a variety of practice areas based on office needs and individual interests. Areas may include Corporate, Financial Services & Real Estate, Health Care, Labor, Employment & Immigration, Litigation, and other practice groups. The experience is designed to help students explore different areas of law while gaining meaningful, hands-on experience.

How long is the Summer Associate Program?

Our Summer Associate Program spans nine weeks and is designed to provide meaningful legal experience, professional development, mentorship, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the firm's culture. The program typically begins in mid-May and concludes in mid-July.

What do practice-area rotations look like?

Before the summer begins, we work with each summer associate to understand their interests and career goals. Based on those interests and the firm's anticipated hiring needs, students may spend time in one or more practice areas throughout the summer, providing exposure to the types of work they are most interested in exploring.

What training opportunities are provided to Summer Associates?

Professional development is a key component of the Summer Associate experience. Throughout the summer, participants attend interactive training programs led by attorneys and industry professionals, covering topics such as legal writing and drafting, legal research, practice area exploration, networking and relationship building, professional communication and interpersonal skills, and career development in private practice.

How do Summer Associates receive feedback?

Providing meaningful feedback is an essential part of the Summer Associate Program. Following assignments, attorneys provide constructive feedback to help summer associates develop their skills and understanding of client work.

Throughout the summer, additional feedback is gathered from supervising attorneys, mentors, recruiting committee members, and attorney recruiting professionals. This feedback is shared on an ongoing basis to ensure students receive guidance and support throughout their experience.

Midway through the program and again at the conclusion of the summer, the recruiting committee chair and attorney recruiting team conduct formal evaluations. These conversations provide an opportunity to discuss accomplishments, identify areas for growth, and ensure summer associates are making the most of their experience at Williams Mullen.

What qualities does Williams Mullen look for in Summer Associate candidates?

We seek candidates who demonstrate strong academic achievement, sound judgment, intellectual curiosity, professionalism, a commitment to client service, and a genuine interest in building a long-term career at Williams Mullen. We value individuals who are collaborative, engaged, and eager to contribute to our culture of Finding Yes®.

How do I apply for the Summer Associate Program?

Applications may be submitted directly through the Careers section of our website once the application period opens. We encourage interested students to review available opportunities and application deadlines before applying.