Job Description:
APPLY NOW: SUMMER ASSOCIATE PATENT LITIGATION FELLOWSHIP TWO SUMMER OPPORTUNITY/(2026 & 2027)
Perkins Coie is accepting applications from first-year law students interested in joining the firm as Summer Associates in Patent Litigation for both the Summer of 2026 and the Summer of 2027. This two-summer opportunity is designed to give students a deeper, more connected experience with the firm—culminating in the opportunity to join Perkins Coie as a full-time associate after graduation.
Perkins Coie’s Intellectual Property (IP) practice combines the focus and flexibility of a boutique firm with the services of one of the world’s leading technology law firms. We have more than 200 full-time patent litigators, patent prosecutors, and agents who are highly skilled at analyzing technology. We have litigated more than 350 patent cases in the past two years, with achievements that include outright wins on motions to dismiss, summary judgments, and bench and jury trials.
Patent Litigation Fellowship Overview
Fellows spend two summers at Perkins Coie—10 weeks after their 1L year and another 10 weeks after their 2L year—gaining hands-on experience and a deep connection to the firm.
Upon satisfactory completion of the second 10-week summer program, Fellows will receive a $25,000 stipend, in addition to their summer associate salary.
Evaluation Criteria
The 2026 Perkins Coie Patent Litigation Fellows will be selected based on the following criteria:
Law Students: Applicants must be first-year law students in good standing pursuing the degree of Juris Doctor at an ABA-accredited law school.
Academic Achievement: A demonstrated record of academic achievement and excellent writing and interpersonal skills, as well as experience that will contribute to a successful career in the legal field.
Patent Litigation Interest: Applicants must have a demonstrated interest in practicing law in patent litigation.
Technical Background: Applicants are preferred to have a technical degree or scientific background, with preferred areas of study/experience in computer science, electrical engineering, physics, and/or similar areas, although all technical and scientific backgrounds may be considered.
Perspective: Life experiences that have shaped your perspectives and professional goals.
How to Apply
Please submit the following materials:
1. Current resume
2. Cover letter (include information regarding geographic preference)
3. Undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) school transcripts
4. Law school transcripts (unofficial versions are acceptable)
5. Legal writing sample (10-page maximum)
You may submit your application without a law school transcript. Please submit your law school transcript as soon as it is available. If you are selected for an interview, we may also ask that you provide references (name, email, and phone). All application materials should be uploaded in PDF format.
In your application, please indicate your preferred Perkins Coie office; you may list up to two offices. Candidates will be considered for the following offices: Austin, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Madison, New York, Palo Alto, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle.
About the Summer Associate Program
Our Summer Associate Program is the primary path to full-time associate hiring at Perkins Coie. Summer Associates receive meaningful, substantive work—research, drafting, analysis, and client-facing projects—alongside skilled attorneys and mentors. Our Summer Associates regularly attend hearings, client meetings, depositions, and deal closings, and can work on pro bono matters, as well as participate in professional development activities and attend social events that help build lasting relationships across the firm.
The two-summer structure allows participants to return for a second summer, building on their first-year experience with increased responsibility, deeper client engagement and relationship building, and further development of core legal skills.
About Perkins Coie
Perkins Coie LLP is an international law firm recognized for its collaborative culture, commitment to excellence, and people-first approach. The firm has been named Fortune’s Best Places to Work list for 23 consecutive years, reflecting our belief that exceptional work happens in a culture of respect, growth, and inclusion.
Eligibility
All first-year students in good standing at an ABA-accredited law school are encouraged to apply. Perkins Coie is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status, or any other identity.
Compensation and Benefits
This position is not benefits-eligible; however, paid holidays are available. In California, Illinois, New York, Texas and Washington State, the monthly compensation for this role is $18,750 per month.
Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records who reside in Los Angeles County, San Diego County, or San Francisco County will be considered for employment in accordance with the applicable Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act.
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