Summer Associate Program
"Summer associates establish meaningful relationships with lawyers in a variety of practice areas and receive substantive feedback on their projects. I was particularly impressed by Tonkon's unusual practice of exposing summer associates to issues and debates within the firm. Summer associates are not only introduced to the work of the firm; they also get a realistic look at how the firm works."Michael Millender
Former Summer Associate, Currently with Tonkon Torp
Real Work and Real Experience
The work our Summer Associates do is the same work our lawyers do. We have real projects that are needed by real clients on real issues. And, because the projects are related to work that is being done in the firm on pending matters, you will often have the opportunity to observe or participate in events arising from the project. The Summer Associate who assists in researching issues for a deposition will get to sit in on the deposition; a Summer Associate who researches an issue for a motion will likely be involved in drafting the motion or memorandum and then have the opportunity to watch oral argument on the motion; a Summer Associate who analyzes a tax issue in connection with a pending transaction will be asked to assist in and observe the final closing. These kinds of hands-on experiences will give you a very realistic exposure to the practice of law at Tonkon Torp.
Social Events
One of the goals of our summer program is to balance meaningful work with interesting and diverse social activities. We want you to get to know the lawyers and other Summer Associates outside the office. Recent summer activities have included a tour of local microbreweries, a night at the theater, a private tour of the Portland Art Museum, several small dinner events, a “First Thursday” open house in the Pearl District, a “Last Thursday” gathering on Alberta Street, an Iron Chef competition, and a Portland Timbers game.
Client Exposure
We also think that you should be exposed to some of our clients and see the work that our clients do. Previous client interactions have included a tour of the NIKE campus, a visit to the headquarters of the Banfield Pet Hospital, and a tour of the Gunderson manufacturing facility, where rail cars and barges are constructed. In addition to these scheduled tours, we also try to give you the opportunity to meet the clients you are working for and to understand their business.
Firm Exposure
It is important for you to see how our law firm works. Over the course of the summer, you will be invited to associate meetings, practice group meetings, attorney meetings, training sessions and lunch meetings. By the end of the summer you will be exposed to many aspects of the firm’s internal functions.
