At Skadden, we've always embraced the idea that equity, inclusion and diversity of backgrounds and experiences make us a better firm. Through our Skadden 1L Scholars Program, we are seeking talented, self-motivated law students whose life experiences, demonstrated interests and achievements can contribute to our firm's commitment to excellence.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Our program offers 1Ls a rich career development opportunity by leveraging the resources and networks that only a global law firm like Skadden can provide.

• 1L Summer Associate internship experience comprised of law firm and corporate in-house exposure (which is optional in some offices). 1L Scholars will work on both client and pro bono-oriented assignments while at the firm. Those interested in also gaining corporate in-house exposure may express an interest in a rotation during the application process.

  • Offered in our Boston, Chicago, Houston, London, Los Angeles, New York, Palo Alto, Toronto, Washington, D.C. and Wilmington offices.

  • Past in-house legal department placements have included positions at our clients in the financial services, technology, pharmaceutical, sports, media and entertainment, and commercial sectors, among others.

• Those who successfully complete their 1L internships will receive offers to participate in the 2L segment of our program, which includes

  • Partnering with a Skadden mentor to further personalize aspects of the 2L Summer Associate experience to support career interests. In addition to returning to the firm as a Summer Associate, this may include a rotation in one of our international offices, an off-site Impact Project with one of our public interest partners, or additional client exposure.

  • Continuing to participate in mentoring and training opportunities during the 2L school year.

COMPENSATION AND SCHOLARSHIPS

• 1L Scholars are paid $4,326.92 per week, and students attending schools from out of town will be reimbursed for their travel expenses at the beginning and end of the summer.

  
  

• In addition, 1L Scholars receive up to $50,000 in scholarships:

  • $25,000 upon returning to Skadden for a full 2L summer

  • $25,000 upon joining the firm as a first-year Associate

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

• The highly competitive selection process factors in law school and undergraduate accomplishments, written statement, interviews, demonstrated leadership skills and participation in efforts that promote diversity, equity and inclusion (e.g., volunteer work, school activities and personal interests).

• Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage individuals from all races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities and socioeconomic statuses, including candidates who are the first in their families to attend college or pursue an advanced degree, as well as military veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply.

Applications are due by January 21, 2025 for the U.S. and London offices, and January 25, 2025 for the Toronto office. Transcripts issued to applicants after the deadline should be submitted as a supplement and sent directly to the applicable office contact. We strongly encourage submitting your application with your final transcript to expedite the review process. Offers to join the program will be made in February.

For more information, or to request an accommodation, contact Mary Kate Connors, Attorney Recruiting Manager, at marykate.connors@skadden.com. Skadden is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Our 2L segment does not permit splits with another law firm or other private employer

All payments are subject to withholdings and deductions

Essay Question (Maximum 500 Words):

At Skadden, we've always embraced the idea that equity, inclusion and diversity of backgrounds and experiences only make us a better firm. Skadden's culture is shaped by attorneys and professional staff who share a commitment to providing our clients with the highest-quality legal services in an environment that emphasizes integrity, teamwork, inclusion, collegiality and creativity, consistent with our core values. Describe how your actions or experiences, including any academic, extracurricular and vocational work, reflect these values, and provide examples of how your interests and achievements demonstrate a commitment to creating and fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive legal community.

EEO Statement

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It adheres to an equal employment opportunity policy that prohibits discriminatory practices or harassment against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not necessarily limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.

Applicants who require an accommodation during the application process should contact Emily Johnston at (212) 735-3304.

Additional Employment Notices

Skadden EEO and Affirmative Action Policy

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

Transparency in Coverage Rule

Skadden's Privacy Statement

Associate Salary Information