Washington, D.C. Summer Program

See Yourself at Sidley. Take a Virtual Tour of our Washington, D.C. office.

Sidley’s Washington, D.C. office opened its doors in 1963 with just three lawyers and has grown to be one of the District’s largest law firms, home to more than 300 lawyers and policy professionals. Located on K Street just two blocks from the White House, we work at the crossroads of law and policy, providing comprehensive regulatory, transactional, policy, and litigation services to domestic and international clients in numerous industries.

Sidley has deep roots in the D.C. community, devoting tens of thousands of hours each year to pro bono work and other service initiatives through longstanding partnerships with D.C.-based organizations. Summer associates have opportunities to engage in our pro bono work and community service projects by volunteering at immigration or veterans legal advice clinics, working on federal appeals, and drafting pleadings in housing or family disputes.

As a summer associate in the D.C. office, you will have the opportunity to work with and learn from lawyers and policy professionals who have invaluable perspective and experience gained from years of prior government service and clerkships across the country.

Work Assignments

D.C. summer associates perform work that would otherwise be handled by associates and can expect to work with both associates and partners of the firm. You will have the opportunity to explore projects from multiple practice areas or to emphasize one or two, and will be encouraged to get involved in pro bono projects. You may also have the chance to observe or participate in client conferences, negotiations, witness interviews, depositions, and court hearings.

Professional Development

Each summer associate will be paired with both a partner and associate mentor, and will receive formal reviews at the midpoint and the end of the summer program. Our formal legal training offerings include a legal writing workshop and trial practice training, as well as regulatory training and appellate advocacy programs – both of which are taught by practicing lawyers and culminate in regulatory and appellate writing exercises. Summer associates also have the opportunity to join lawyers for informative panel discussions and meetings.

Summer Life in D.C.

An important part of your summer experience is building relationships with your future colleagues. You will be invited to attend a variety of social events designed to help you get to know our lawyers and your fellow summer associates, while experiencing all that Washington, D.C. has to offer.

As a summer associate in the D.C. office, your calendar might include activities like:

• Sampling the District’s international cuisine at lunches, happy hours, and dinners with associates and partners
• Cheering on the Washington Nationals with mentors and Summer Committee members
• Enjoy a day on the water in nearby Annapolis
• Building friendships with fellow summer associates during bowling, mini golf, or pickleball at D.C.’s fun venues
• Take in a show at the Kennedy Center
• Opportunities to be active, such as a SoulCycle class, rooftop yoga, or hiking
• Exploring D.C. by visiting monuments, museums, and unique neighborhoods located only minutes away from the office