Our firm is committed to the growth and development of legal communities that accurately reflect the rich diversity of our communities. Established in 1991, the fellowship provides 1L students who are members of groups historically underrepresented in the legal industry with a paid summer associate position and a $15,000 stipend. Fellows who return for their 2L summer are eligible for an additional $15,000 stipend at the conclusion of the summer program, as well as a $10,000 award should they accept an offer to join the firm as an associate following graduation. There may be an opportunity for our 1L Diversity Fellows to work on-site with the legal department at our clients' offices. Generally, these are two-week opportunities during the summer.
The diversity fellowships are not tied to a specific practice group and may receive assignments from a variety of practices. These fellowships are available in the following Perkins Coie offices: Austin, Boise, Chicago, Dallas, Madison, New York, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C.
Criteria
- Good standing as a first-year law student at an ABA-accredited law school.
- 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.
- A history of meaningful contributions to the diversity efforts of the student’s law school and a strong desire to continue supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts upon entering the legal profession.
- Membership in a group historically underrepresented in the legal profession, including students of color, students who identify as LGBTQ+, and students with disabilities.
Submission Guidelines
- Current resume.
- Cover letter.
- Three references (name, email, and phone number).
- Undergraduate and, if available, law school transcripts (unofficial versions are acceptable).
- A legal writing sample (10-page maximum).
- A personal statement (one-page, single-spaced). The personal statement should be a narrative about the student’s unique personal history and commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the community and legal profession.