Despite an environment characterized by uncertainty, recruiting and retaining talented people remains a top priority for most premier law firms. The Herculean challenge faced by most firms was how to, in the middle of a pandemic, onboard, train, and entertain potential new hires in virtual summer programs.
Summer associate programs are central to the culture of most firms. They are, in effect, apprenticeships, and expose new lawyers to life in a law firm, as well as real client matters. Incoming associates learn from industry leaders, engage with clients, and get an appreciation of the fabric of the firm. Shifting to a virtual environment left much of that programming in the balance. This year, most summer associates found themselves sitting in front of a computer in their living rooms, home offices, and bedrooms, preparing to take the first steps toward developing meaningful relationships with the attorneys and business services professionals in firms where they hope to start their careers.
