LAW STUDENT FAQS
Which offices host summer programs?
The firm is hosting 2025 summer programs in Atlanta, Baltimore, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, New York City, Pittsburgh, Richmond, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.
The firm hires 1L summer associates for several offices each year. Contact Opal Beckman, Manager, Law Student Recruiting, for more information.
How do I apply for a 2L summer associate position?
McGuireWoods participates in on-campus interviews on many law school campuses across the country, in addition to four job fairs each year. You also may apply to the firm directly by visiting our careers page. The firm typically posts 2L summer openings in late spring. To request early consideration for our summer program, email Opal Beckman your resume, current transcript and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in McGuireWoods and your office preference.
What does McGuireWoods look for in a summer associate?
The selection process is highly competitive. Excellent academics, as well as superior writing and interpersonal skills, are required. McGuireWoods looks for highly qualified candidates with demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to their law school communities. The firm values candidates’ legal and nonlegal work experience.
How long is McGuireWoods’ summer program?
The summer program is 10 weeks long. The program begins in May and ends in late July.
Are summer associates assigned mentors?
Yes, each summer associate is matched with one or two mentors. Mentors help summer associates acclimate to the firm and assist in all aspects of the summer program. Each summer associate also is assigned a supervisor (typically a partner) who provides guidance and consistent feedback throughout the program.
What types of projects are given to summer associates and how are they reviewed?
McGuireWoods encourages summer associates to try a broad range of projects in as many different practice areas as possible. The firm uses a project database to manage the summer assignment and review process. We consider the summer program a learning experience and want each summer associate to benefit from frequent feedback during the 10-week program. All summer associates take part in formal midsummer and end-of-summer evaluations with their supervisors. They also receive constructive criticism on their written product whenever possible, and the firm encourages summer associates to seek feedback on their work throughout the summer.
What types of pro bono opportunities are available to McGuireWoods summer associates?
As part of our commitment to client and community service, McGuireWoods lawyers are involved in significant pro bono work. It is imperative that summer associates also get direct experience working on pro bono matters during their time at the firm. Each summer associate is paired with a pro bono mentor who includes their mentee on an active case. For additional information on the firm’s commitment to pro bono, visit the firm’s website.
What kind of training does a summer associate receive during the program?
Summer associates work alongside experienced lawyers on real cases and transactions — the best kind of training for any law student. McGuireWoods offers numerous opportunities for summer associates to attend department and industry team meetings to gain a wider perspective of the work the firm handles. In addition, summer associates are regularly invited to accompany attorneys to court, and to attend client meetings when appropriate.
As a highlight of the program, the firm also plans an annual summer associate retreat in Washington, D.C., filled with networking and learning opportunities designed specifically for our summer associates.
I am a third-year law student. How do I apply for an entry-level position?
Click here to apply online for an open position. If you have questions, reach out to the appropriate Attorney Recruiting Manager. Click here for a list of office contacts.
Does McGuireWoods offer seniority or compensation credit to associates joining the firm after a judicial clerkship?
Yes, McGuireWoods offers a bonus and seniority credit to associates joining the firm directly from a federal district or highest state court clerkship.
What are McGuireWoods’ diversity initiatives?
McGuireWoods is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the firm, the legal profession and our communities. Visit McGuireWoods’ diversity and inclusion page for more information.
How can I find out more comprehensive information about the firm?
Visit the National Association for Law Placement’s Directory of Legal Employers. Click here for the McGuireWoods page.
For complete details on applicant disclosures, please click here.