Summer Associate Program

Summer Associate Program Overview

Marshall Gerstein’s Summer Associate Program plays a vital role in driving the firm’s growth initiatives. We aim to recruit and retain 1L and 2L law students, believing that they are the future leaders of our firm. Currently, over 35 percent of our Partners began their careers here as either Summer Associates or as Technical Specialists and Patent Agents who later pursued law school.

We are looking for candidates with sharp legal acumen and strong technical skills. The ideal candidate demonstrates a passion for learning, a strong work ethic, and the ability to collaborate effectively in team settings. For our patent prosecution and litigation practices, a technical or science degree is required, with an advanced degree preferred in certain cases. In contrast, a technical or science degree is not needed for our trademark practice. We also value diversity as a vital part of enriching our legal practice and welcome candidates from a variety of backgrounds who can bring unique perspectives to our team.

As a Summer Associate at Marshall Gerstein, you can expect to engage in real, substantive legal work that spans various intellectual property disciplines, including litigation, prosecution, transactional, and/or trademark practices. You will receive mentorship from both a Partner and an Associate attorney, who provide guidance and support throughout the summer. Additionally, you will participate in presentations and training sessions aimed at enhancing your professional development and deepening your knowledge of IP law and firm practices.

Summer Associates at Marshall Gerstein also enjoy opportunities for social events, lunches, and cross-practice networking throughout the summer. Popular social events include pickleball, game nights, visits to Second City comedy club, cooking classes, volleyball league participation, golf outings, baseball games, and progressive dinners. We even have our own ping pong table for spontaneous matches!

Marshall Gerstein is dedicated to supporting your long-term success by investing in your development during the summers between your law school years. We want you to succeed in your career as an IP attorney, and the goal of our summer program is to prepare you for a future as an Associate at our firm. To recognize your commitment to our firm and your career growth at Marshall Gerstein, our summer program offers a bonus when you begin your first-year associate position after completing one or more summers with Marshall Gerstein. The bonus amount is commensurate with your participation, whether during your 1L, 2L, or both summers.

Summer Associate Opportunities

We accept applications for 1L and 2L Summer Associate positions on a rolling basis throughout the year, subject to hiring needs. When applying, please select the position that corresponds to your current law school class year and the summer program you wish to be considered for.

Click Here for Available Open Positions

We welcome your questions!

Michele Gudaitis
Legal Recruiting Manager
[email protected]