Description:

Warner Norcross + Judd is now accepting applications from current 1Ls for both our 2026 and 2027 Summer Associate Programs, a ten-week experience designed to give law students a true sense of life as a Warner attorney. We seek a diverse group of accomplished, team-oriented students with excellent academic credentials, strong communication skills, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

About the Position:
Responsibilities:
  • Conduct legal research
  • Draft legal memorandums, documents and pleadings
  • Work on challenging projects under attorney supervision
  • Attend client meetings, court proceedings, and firmwide events
  • Participate in mentor meetings, training sessions, and social events
  • Engage in pro-bono and community service initiatives

Qualifications:
  • A current 1L enrolled in an accredited law school
  • Strong academic record (top 15% preferred)
  • Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills
  • Effective communication and interpersonal abilities
  • Strong attention to detail and discretion
  • Reliable transportation required
  • Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing, and the ability to lift up to 25 pounds as needed.

Why Work @ Warner?
A Better Partnership® in Every Sense
At Warner, we combine sophisticated legal work with a culture built on teamwork, respect, and purpose. Here's what makes us different:

True Collaboration Through Lockstep
Law school is graded on a curve - your career shouldn't be. Our lockstep (seniority-based) compensation model removes internal competition, fostering genuine teamwork and shared success across every practice area.

Top-Tier Work in Michigan
Warner offers the opportunity to do sophisticated, high-impact legal work for market-leading clients - while building your career and life in Michigan, a destination known for its vibrant communities and quality of life.

Fun, Pride + Profit
Grounded in our motto of Fun, Pride + Profit, we create opportunities for our firm members to build genuine, positive connections with one another. We foster a collaborative environment where everyone can do their best work in a culture of respect and support.

Careers That Last
With an associate retention rate well above the industry average, Warner is a place where lawyers build lasting, fulfilling careers grounded in strong relationships and mutual respect. Warner's associate retention reflects a culture where lawyers thrive through trust, transparency, and mutual respect - values recognized by Vault, which ranked Warner among the Top 10 Best Law Firms to Work For in both 2025 and 2026, including #1 for Transparency and Best Law Firms for Women.

Freedom to Explore
Through our Job Jar system, summer associates and first-year associates try out multiple practice areas before choosing their path - because your career and the people you work with should fit you.

Realistic Expectations, Real Ownership
Warner attorneys work hard on complex, high-level matters, but our 1,750 billable hour goal keeps the focus on quality and growth - not burnout. We expect dedication and excellence, without the unsustainable pace of other firms.

Mentorship That Matters
Each summer associate is matched with three mentors – a mix of partners and associates at different levels of experience to provide guidance and support from day one.

Commitment to DEI
Warner's DEI Action Committee leads firmwide efforts to build inclusive systems and advance our “one firm” culture. Guided by our DEI Strategic Plan, we turn commitment into measurable progress - earning Mansfield Certification in 2024 and recertification in 2025.

Deep Community Roots and Pro Bono Service
From firm wide community service days to board leadership and pro bono advocacy, Warner attorneys are deeply engaged in their communities, advancing causes in DEI, education, and legal aid. Warner provides billable credit for pro bono service, reflecting our commitment to giving back.

A Better Partnership®
This isn't just our tagline - it's how we operate. We're partners with our clients and with one another, working toward shared success built on trust and integrity.

Who We Are:
Warner has been ranked among the Top 10 Best Law Firms to Work For by Vault in both 2025 and 2026! Read more about why by clicking here: https://www.wnj.com/updates/associates-again-rank-warner-one-of-top-10-best-law-firms-to-work-for-in-annual-vault-survey/

Warner Norcross + Judd is a corporate law firm with more than 230 attorneys practicing in nine offices throughout Michigan: Bloomfield Hills, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Macomb County, Midland and Muskegon. By providing sound legal advice + alternative billing options, Warner forges a better partnership with its clients.

Practices include: Bankruptcy, Corporate, Cybersecurity + Privacy, Data Analytics + eDiscovery, Employee Benefits, Family Law, Government Advocacy, Immigration, Intellectual Property, Labor + Employment, Litigation, Real Estate, Environmental, Tax, Trusts + Estates. Industries include: Automotive, Cannabis, Emerging Media, Financial Institutions, Health Care, Higher Ed, Private Client + Family Office, Supply Chain.

To learn more, visit WNJ.com or connect with us on https://x.com/Warner_Norcross or Facebook.com/wnjllp

EEO Statement:
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplaces. We are committed to building a firm that reflects the diversity of the clients and communities we serve. We can foster inclusion and equity by moving beyond barriers and rejecting stereotypes based on gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status. The result is a high performing team of professionals who provide excellent service to our clients.

How to Apply:
We appreciate your interest in exploring career opportunities with Warner. To complete an application, click “Apply Now” and create a profile to continue.

Closing Statement:
Warner hires top talent at every point in our organization. We are seeking dedicated professionals with diverse backgrounds who strive to support the firm and its goals. Our collegial culture attracts people with diverse skills and backgrounds who are dedicated to teamwork and client service.

Please address your cover letter to Katie Pullen, Hiring Partner and Kristin Williams, Recruiting Manager. Please indicate in your letter which is your preferred office location.