Summer Associate Program
At Baker Botts, our summer program is designed to give law students a meaningful and realistic introduction to life as a lawyer at the firm. Summer associates work alongside our lawyers on substantive matters, participate in hands-on training, and build relationships with colleagues across offices and practice areas.
The program combines real legal work, practical training, mentorship, and community, allowing students to experience the collaborative culture that defines Baker Botts.
Meaningful Work and Real Experience
Summer associates at Baker Botts work on real client matters across a variety of practice areas, including litigation, intellectual property, corporate transactions, tax, antitrust, and regulatory.
Assignments may include:
- Drafting research memoranda and motions
- Conducting legal research on complex issues
- Supporting diligence and transactional work
- Observing depositions, hearings, and client meetings
- Assisting with strategic pro bono matters
Many participants describe the program as a hands-on introduction to legal practice, where they gain confidence and develop practical skills by contributing directly to active matters.
Practical Training and Professional Development
Throughout the summer, associates participate in training designed to help them develop the core skills needed for success in practice. Click to view the example highlighted below.
Highlights include:
- Mock Trial and deposition workshops
- Negotiation and advocacy training
- M&A and transactional training exercises
- Legal writing and client readiness workshops
- Sessions on legal technology and emerging tools
These programs are designed to complement real client work while helping students build practical skills they will continue to use throughout their careers.
Mentorship and Integration
Summer associates work closely with attorneys across the firm and receive guidance from mentors who help them navigate assignments, explore practice areas, and learn more about life at the firm.
Participants often note the collaborative and approachable environment at Baker Botts, where lawyers across levels are invested in helping summer associates succeed and feel integrated into the firm.
Baker Weekend
One of the signature events of the program is Baker Weekend, where summer associates from across our U.S. offices gather for a weekend of training, panel discussions, and social programming. The event provides an opportunity to connect with firm leadership, meet colleagues from other offices, and learn more about the firm’s practice areas and culture.
Community and Culture
In addition to professional development, the summer program includes a wide variety of social events designed to help associates get to know their colleagues and experience the communities where our offices are located. These experiences allow summer associates to build lasting relationships, while getting to know the people and culture that make up Baker Botts.