Q: How many lawyers will the firm be hiring?
A: Our summer program has ranged from one to seven lawyers each year.
Q: What is the average length of stay?
A: Summer associates typically work eight to ten weeks.
Q: Does the firm allow split summers?
A: Yes, provided the summer associate spends a minimum of six weeks at the firm.
Q: Could you please describe a typical day?
A: Summer associates usually work 8-10 hours a day, depending on their workloads and personal preference. There are ongoing lawyer training programs that summer associates are encouraged to attend. The majority of a summer associate’s time is spent working on projects for various lawyers, including legal research and analysis; drafting memos, briefs and other pleadings; participating in case strategy discussions; assisting with discovery and trial preparation; monitoring legislation; working on pro bono matters; etc. A variety of social events enables summer associates to get to know all of our lawyers and staff and helps to acquaint those from out of town with the city.
Q: What type of work may I expect?
A: Summer associate projects are regular work assignments for Spiegel & McDiarmid clients. The majority of the work is billable. Summer associates usually receive work directly from lawyers or through the Spiegel summer assignment coordinator, who monitors the workload of all summer associates. We ask for practice area interests prior to the start of the program and make every effort to match available work with expressed interests.
Q: Does the firm sponsor social activities for summer associates?
A: Yes, indeed. While we focus on educational programs, past Spiegel summers have featured outings to Washington Nationals baseball games, the National Gallery of Art, the Shakespeare Theatre, weekly happy hours, and parties at partners’ homes.
Q: What are the salaries for summer associates?
A: The salary for the 2007 Spiegel Summer Program was $1,800 per week.
Q: How does Spiegel & McDiarmid view judicial clerkships?
A: Judicial clerkships are encouraged. Clerks are considered for offers of employment based on the judge’s rules for having job assurances during the clerkship.
Q: How do I apply for a Spiegel Summer?
A: Please send a resume and cover letter to:
Director of Human Resources
Spiegel & McDiarmid LLP
1333 New Hampshire Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036
recruiting@spiegelmcd.com
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