Most of the work given to our summer associates involves writing memoranda and briefs. There are, however, opportunities for client contact and for drafting of pleadings, interrogatories and other legal documents. All work is done under the supervision of an attorney. Since no summer associate is assigned to any one attorney or team, all summer associates work on a wide range of assignments. The variety, complexity and number of assignments are controlled by the hiring partner.

The program aims to provide the summer associate with a well-rounded learning experience. In addition to lectures given by various attorneys in their respective areas of expertise, summer associates are also given the opportunity to attend closings, depositions, court proceedings, team meetings and negotiation sessions. They benefit, too, from participation in special seminars in such areas as legal writing and preparing pleadings and interrogatories.

To provide the summer associate with guidance and support, each summer associate is assigned an advisor and a mentor. In addition to the attorney from whom the assignment originates, each summer associate works closely with an advisor who reviews each completed assignment and provides suggestions for improvements on an on-going basis. On the other hand, the mentor, generally a younger associate, helps the summer associate make the transition from law school student to Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer associate.

Interviewing and Hiring Practices for Summer Positions

It is the firm's policy to hire individuals who have demonstrated academic excellence, writing ability and strong interpersonal skills. Members of our hiring committee look for involvement in activities such as writing for a journal or law review or participating in moot court, work experience in a legal environment, academic credentials and extracurricular commitment. Intangible factors of character, personality and enthusiasm, along with the ability to communicate effectively, are given consideration in the hiring decision.

During the interview process, we try to provide as much information about the firm as possible. Before candidates accept an offer, however, we encourage them to return to the firm to speak with attorneys at all levels to gain further insight into the practice, the people and the congenial work environment at Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer.

Interviews at our offices in Woodbridge are conducted during the fall preceding the year for which hiring is planned.  In addition to in-office interviewing, members of the Hiring Committee annually conduct interviews at nearby law schools.

It is our general practice, after the on-campus interview, to invite those candidates who are being considered further for a second interview with the Hiring Committee. Candidates who are invited for a second interview are reimbursed by the firm for travel expenses.

Employment opportunity inquiries should be directed to Kimberly Curtis, Director of Legal Services.