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Big Law, better

Smaller cohort. Bigger impact. 

A trainee contract designed to accelerate what comes next.

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Substantive work

Unrivaled exposure to clients and assignments.

Real-world experience

Hands-on training and skill development to put you ahead of your peers.

Elite mentorship

Learn alongside Chambers-ranked lawyers invested in your growth.

Connected community

An inclusive culture built on collaboration and lasting relationships through our retreat, social events, and networking opportunities.

I began as a summer associate in one practice and found the support to transition into another – an experience that speaks to the firm’s flexibility and commitment to growth.

Elle Hayes

Partner, Energy & Infrastructure

We’ve focused on building the right team and giving our people the freedom to grow within a supportive, high‑performance environment.

Ayman Mahmoud

Partner, Corporate Advisory

Co-Office Managing Partner, London

Aymen Mahmoud, McDermott Will & Schulte

Having worked closely with our summer program, I’ve seen how intentional mentorship and a collaborative culture set law students up for success from day one.

Aroma Sharma

Partner, Corporate Advisory

What keeps me motivated after 30 years is simple: the people. At McDermott, colleagues invest in your success, bring joy to the work, and create a culture where you can be yourself.

Michael Boykins

Partner, Transactions

Office Managing Partner, Chicago

When you create a culture where people can do the best work of their careers, the results follow naturally and at scale.

Josh Dambacher

Partner, Corporate Advisory

Co-Office Managing Partner, London

London trainees pose for a group photo during a team event (credit: McDermott Will & Schulte)
Germany interns enjoy ice cream at a social event for the firm. (credit: McDermott Will & Schulte)
Chicago summer associates enjoy a boat cruise after-hours during a firm event (credit: McDermott Will & Schulte)
Summer associates take a selfie in a common space of the firm’s Chicago office (credit: McDermott Will & Schulte)

Career acceleration 

Your growth here is deliberate and measurable. After your contract, you’ll step into a structured development framework supported by 125 billable-equivalent hours dedicated to your growth.

Professional development

Tag-alongs, immersive trainings, summits, simulations, and structured evaluations.

Mentoring

Structured relationship-building, sponsorship, and connection across practices and offices to support your growth.

AI readiness

Advanced AI integration, certifications, and hands-on platforms prepare you for modern legal practice.

Opportunity and inclusion

Through equitable access to opportunity and resource groups to encourage connection, we cultivate an inclusive culture of belonging.

Coaching

Dedicated team focused on 1:1 personalized coaching to support you with intention.

Well-being

Led by our director of mental health & well-being, programs that support sustainable performance, resilience, and mental health.

Built for bold careers

As a trainee, you join a platform built on bold opportunity, top-tier compensation, and a culture designed to support your growth.

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