Barnes & Thornburg is one of the fastest-growing law firms in the country — and we’re focused on developing the next generation of legal talent. At a firm known for its relentless drive and growth, your career starts with the same energy — grounded in real work and built for real impact.

Whether you’re joining us as a 2L summer associate or preparing for law school through our Prelaw Scholars Program, you’ll find meaningful work, genuine mentorship, and the momentum to launch a lasting career.

Summer Associate Program: A Foundation Built on Substance

Our Summer Associate Program offers hands-on experience, real collaboration and exposure to the people and practices that define the firm. You’ll work alongside driven, down-to-earth professionals who trust you to contribute from day one.

From structured mentorship and a national retreat to substantive client work and pro bono matters, the 10-week program mirrors the careers our associates go on to build. You’ll collaborate across offices, explore different practice areas, and build the foundation for a long-term career — one where your initiative is supported and your growth is accelerated.

We encourage you to identify two or three primary areas of interest while also taking advantage of the flexibility to explore new ones along the way. Here’s what you will experience:

• Assignment Selection Portal — Choose projects based on your interests using a dedicated online platform, with guidance from attorneys across offices. Attorneys may also reach out directly via email, calls or meetings to offer assignments, fostering collaboration and informal mentorship.
• Partner + Associate Mentorship — Each summer associate is paired with a partner adviser and an associate adviser — your built-in support system throughout the summer. You’ll also receive a networking budget to help you connect with attorneys across the firm.
• National Retreat — Join summer associates from across the United States for a multi-day retreat in Indianapolis or Chicago. Training, networking and fun included.
• Training Beyond Orientation — Begin with two days of orientation and initial training, followed by biweekly educational sessions on topics such as time management and legal writing. You’ll also have access to our online training library throughout the summer.
• Real Redback + Real Development — Receive project-based feedback on every assignment, covering skills like legal writing, analysis and communication. Formal evaluations occurring in mid-summer and at the end of your program will focus on your progress and goals.
• Client and Pro Bono Work — Work on active matters, including pro bono projects, with real responsibility and client exposure. Pro bono opportunities are available in every office.
• Flexibility to Explore — You won’t be tied to a single practice area. We support exploration to help you discover the work that inspires you most.

Note: In addition to the offices listed, some locations offer summer law clerk opportunities. Reach out for details.