2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Latham & Watkins

• “We attended training seminars throughout the entirety of the summer. We were given work assignments based on our indicated practice area interests but were allowed to explore other areas as well. The work was substantive in the sense that our assignments actively mattered to the issues we were working on and were used by other attorneys and clients.”
• “I liked the substance and the variety of work assignments that I got to do over the summer. The training was hands-on, and my upper-level associate was always available to answer questions.”
• “The firm was prepared with both substantive, real work assignments and well-developed mock assignments (built off of real old assignments) to make sure there was ample experience available.”
• “Latham summers appeared to do more billable client-facing work than many of its peer firms during the summer program. It gave a relatively reliable indication on the types of tasks that first-year associates would be given, and there were rarely times when I felt that there was ‘nothing’ for me to do. Work would often be billed directly to clients instead of a standard summer associate code.”

• “There were tons of social events and outings. Lunches are available every day at nice restaurants with attorneys, coffee chats, and everything in between. Attorneys were eager to get to know us and talk to us about the firm and our interests. The summer associates all got along very well, and we all remain friends! Latham also hosts a Summer Academy event where summers from all domestic offices all gather together, get to meet one another, learn about the firm, and have fun. My year it was in Huntington Beach!”
• “Social events were enjoyable and tame. Firm places an emphasis on moderation in drinking, and there were always non-alcoholic options and no pressure to drink.”
• “I have had multiple summers at the firm, and I have enjoyed every single one. The other summer associates are very inviting and kind just like the attorneys. I had a great time socializing and going to lunch events with people. The best events were the concert and boat outing.”
• “The social aspects were thoughtful and balanced. The events did not center around alcohol (and usually had a balance of activities). Examples included mini golf, boating, cooking classes, concerts, and summer socials with different departments.”

• "Latham provides an environment where you get out of it what you put into it. Because of this, when the structure of the summer associate program is no longer there, when you return you have to be much more proactive in seeking out those same connections.”
• “None. What was advertised during summer has turned out to be very consistent with what real work is like. Obviously just more work; as summers, the workload was pretty light.”
• “The expectation for logging on during off-peak hours was downplayed while a summer associate (e.g., many stating that they rarely work weekends). The expectation appears to be that you will work at least a little bit during most weekends.”
• “My experience at Latham & Watkins has met my expectations from the summer program. The flexibility in choosing practice areas and the challenging work have been as promised. I've been pleasantly surprised by the access to and collaboration with partners, which has been even better than expected.”

Our summer program offers a genuine glimpse into the life of a junior associate at Latham & Watkins.

As a summer associate, you will actively contribute through our Unassigned Program, which empowers you to explore our market-leading practices and award-winning industry groups that drive the global economy, as well as participate in pro bono work. We encourage you to pursue your interests and gain valuable experience by collaborating with leading lawyers across disciplines.

Assigned mentors will be available to answer questions and guide you throughout the summer. You will engage in substantive matters and receive real-time feedback, just like a firm associate.

At Summer Academy—a highlight of our summer program—you will join summer associates from across the firm and immerse yourself in Latham culture through training seminars and social events.