How many summer associates are in the summer program?

Each year, the summer associate class size varies, depending on anticipated need and current capacity.  In 2008, we had 36 second-year summer associates.  In 2010, we had 17 summer associates firm wide.

What is your assignment process and what type of work will I be doing?

We have associate coordinators in each office that distribute work assignments and help summer associates integrate into the firm.  We encourage our summer associates to work with those coordinators, as well as other attorneys at the firm, to obtain work assignments from practice areas in which they are interested.  In addition, summer associates are encouraged to accompany attorneys on matters such as mediations, depositions, trials, client meetings and conference calls, deal closings, and community and professional functions.  By the end of the summer, a summer associate will have worked on projects for a variety of different practice areas throughout the firm.

How long is the summer program?

The summer associate program lasts a total of eight weeks. 

Is there a mentor program in place for summer associates?

Venable assigns a partner mentor and an associate mentor to each summer associate, to act as a resource to help him or her integrate into the firm and answer any questions that may come up.  Beyond the mentor relationships, we have partners provide feedback on work assignments to the summer associates, as well as give advice about overall performance.

What types of social activities are offered?

The firm has a variety of activities planned that will allow our attorneys and the summer associates to get to know one another.  Past activities have included informal dinners at partners' homes, weekly lunches, baseball games, happy hours, an annual pro bono reception and a dinner for the summer associates hosted by our board members.  Some additional features of the summer program include "Take a Partner to Lunch" and "take-alongs" with attorneys in the firm.  The "Take a Partner to Lunch" program encourages summer associates to spend time with partners whose practice areas are of particular interest to the summer associate.  Take-alongs can include attending hearings, spending the day in court, or sitting in on a deposition or transaction closing.

What is the atmosphere of the firm on a day-to-day basis?

The atmosphere at Venable is encouraging and collegial, as well as challenging and stimulating.  We value our friendly, team-oriented work environment, which encourages professional development, good associate-partner relationships, and early client contact.  Our firm's friendly atmosphere, coupled with a high level of professionalism, provides an environment that promotes learning and professional satisfaction.

What is your office dress code?

Venable has a "Dress for Your Day" policy.  If you will be meeting clients or visitors, business attire is required.  For all other occasions, business attire is appropriate, but business casual attire is acceptable. 

What are the firm's billable and non-billable hour requirements?

The minimum billable hour target for Venable associates is 1,900 hours, except for associates in the Preceptor Program.  (This program includes entry-level associates and associates who were judicial clerks but have not yet practiced law.  The billable hour requirement for this group is 1,800 hours for their first year.)  All associates are expected to work a combined total of 2,200 hours each year.  In addition to billable time, the additional hours may include such activities as professional development, pro bono service, firm committee work, and business development efforts.

What does Venable pay for in connection with taking the bar?

The firm pays for the bar review course, the bar exam fee, and the bar admission fee.

Does Venable hire judicial clerks?

We always consider resumes from judicial clerks.  Interested candidates should email their resume and transcripts to the proper legal recruiting contact.