Work Assignments

From the outset, summer associates work on client matters across the firm’s practices, including domestic and cross-border M&A, international arbitrations and initial public offerings. Many summer associates discover new interests as they gain exposure to different practices through assignments, training and conversations with lawyers across the firm. Our program gives you the flexibility to explore multiple practice areas or focus on one. Throughout the summer, you will receive regular feedback and guidance to support your development.

Training and Development

Summer associates are integrated into the firm’s professional development programs from the start. They are invited to attend department and practice lunches, where lawyers discuss current legal developments, client issues and trends shaping their practices, as well as training programs designed to build practical skills. Recent programs have included the fundamentals of negotiation, developing a case theory, effective legal writing and Private Equity Funds 101. Read more >

Advisor Program

Each summer associate is paired with both a partner advisor and an associate advisor. They help you navigate the firm, explore different practice areas and build relationships across the Debevoise community. Along the way, they share their perspectives on the firm, connect you with resources and answer questions.

Orientation

Orientation introduces you to the firm, your summer class and lawyers across Debevoise. You will learn about our firm, our values and the resources available to support your summer, including opportunities in diversity and pro bono.

Social Events

The summer program includes a range of social events that help you get to know your classmates and lawyers across the firm while exploring New York City. Recent events have included cooking classes, trivia, painting, indoor mini golf and baseball games.

Pro Bono

In 2025, 96% of Debevoise summer associates worked on pro bono matters. Summer associates have opportunities to contribute to a wide range of high-impact representations, including matters involving human rights, civil rights, immigration, family law, disability law and nonprofit organizations. Many assignments provide meaningful drafting, client counseling and other hands-on experience in partnership with organizations such as The Legal Aid Society, Sanctuary for Families, Human Rights First, Immigration Equality and Start Small Think Big.

Washington, D.C. is a demanding environment for lawyers. Our D.C. office is the highly successful place it is because our lawyers are driven, hard-working, solutions-oriented and commercially savvy individuals who work to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients. That dedication is always reflected in our world-class work product. Learn more > 

From our office in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant financial district, Debevoise corporate, regulatory and litigation lawyers handle groundbreaking work for the Bay Area’s most innovative companies, especially in the technology and private investment sectors, while serving as a critical hub in the firm’s global office network. Our work in the region includes advising clients on a range of corporate transactions as well as cutting edge issues like cryptocurrency regulation, groundbreaking fund structures and ESG guidance. Led by six Debevoise partners, the office provides capabilities in mergers and acquisitions, private equity fund formation, white collar and regulatory defense, intellectual property litigation and commercial litigation. Learn More >