2027 1L Fellowship - Chicago

McDermott; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 234,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Scholarship toward law school

Mentorship program

Writing workshops

Job summary

McDermott in Chicago offers a 2027 1L Fellowship within the Summer Associate Program. Fellows receive a weekly salary and a scholarship toward law school education upon completion, with potential to return as a 2L Summer Associate.

Program emphasizes mentorship from partners, formal feedback, and practical development through writing workshops and hands-on sessions to build confidence and legal skills.

Qualifications

• Enrolled at a U.S. ABA-accredited law school with strong academic and personal achievement.
• Targeted focus in a general practice area offered in the Chicago office.
• Genuine interest in pursuing a career at McDermott after graduation and living in the Chicago metro area.

Responsibilities

• Assist with associate-level assignments and client work alongside partners.
• Receive mentorship and guidance from dedicated mentors throughout the program.
• Participate in training workshops, writing sessions, and substantive practice group programming.

Education

1L JD student

Anticipated JD graduation Spring 2029

Job description

Your legal career starts with work that matters. From day one, you’ll take on associate-level assignments for real clients and learn directly from partners who are invested in your success.

Each summer associate is paired with one or more dedicated mentors who offer day-to-day guidance and practical advice on the move from law school to a law firm. Formal feedback at the midpoint and end of the program shows you where you’re strong and what to focus on next.

The program is built around your professional growth and well-being. Writing workshops, hands‑on skills sessions, and substantive practice group programming help you build confidence and sharpen your legal skills. Through M c Dermott Well, you’ll have access to resources and events on balance and resilience, helping you feel supported in and out of the office.

We celebrate individuality and make space for you to bring your full self to the table, guided by trust and respect. You’ll meet lawyers and fellow summer associates across the firm, join a community built on collaboration and giving back, and build relationships that will last beyond the summer.

We offerour 2027 1L Fellowship in the Chicago office.

• 1L Fellows take part in every aspect of the Summer Associate Program, with extensive training, networking, and social opportunities.
• In addition to a weekly salary of $4,519, 1L Fellows receive a $15,000 scholarship toward their law school education upon completing the 2027 Summer Associate Program.
• 1L Fellows have the option to return as 2L Summer Associates in 2028.

We welcome applications from any law student who is enrolled at a U.S. ABA‑accredited law school with:

• A strong record of academic and personal achievement
• A demonstrated focus in a general practice area offered in your office of interest
• A genuine interest in pursuing a career at M c Dermott upon graduation
• The intent to live and practice in the metropolitan area of your office of interest
• Anticipated JD graduation in Spring 2029