Downey Brand

• “Lots of research memos, participation across a variety of matters, and good social engagement. The first year of practice feels like a continuation of the summer associate experience with opportunities and expectations increasing over time.”
• “The expectations that the partners and senior associates had for me were high regardless of my status as a summer associate or a first-year associate. That set a realistic expectation of what life would be like as a full-time associate. The workload was more spread out as a summer associate, as I could reach out to other departments when I needed more work. Now that I am more focused in one practice group, the work ebbs and flows differently. The training and mentoring from the partners feel less pointed as a first-year associate, but the more-senior attorneys have remained the same—very helpful and communicative.”
• “I had a good summer with Downey Brand. I received an associate and partner mentor. Throughout the summer, there were plenty of opportunities (social, educational, professional) to get to know people at the firm. I was able to work across a broad range of practice groups and with different lawyers at the firm.”

• “Golfing at Haggin Oaks.”
• “Giants game trip.”
• “Bowling.”

Our summer program is an exceptional opportunity to elevate your legal skills by performing challenging work for our clients alongside experienced attorneys who are passionate about their practices. You will have the ability to explore the practice areas that interest you while working on a range of assignments similar to those performed by first-year associates. Our summer program includes formal and informal training, with opportunities to attend client meetings, hearings, depositions, negotiations, closings, site visits, and expert consultations. Additionally, we have a robust mentorship program that pairs you with two dedicated mentors who will assist with your workload, answer questions about specific assignments, and introduce you to other attorneys at the firm. We take pride in our firm culture and host lunches and social events throughout the summer so you can get to know our attorneys and bond with your fellow summer associates.  

Note: The firm’s San Francisco office is currently staffed only with Natural Resources attorneys. A demonstrated interest in Natural Resources law is required for San Francisco summer associates.