In case the sheer exclusivity of law firm summer associate programs isn’t enough to create a frenzied demand, here’s another reason: The pay is getting even better.

Indeed, summer associate programs in New Jersey and elsewhere aren’t what they once were, in terms of both size and number, and the wine-and-dine itinerary of eras past has given way to programs that more resemble apprenticeships. But after years of relative stasis in pay rates, there were signs of upward momentum in 2017.