2L Summer Associate

Firm OverviewAt Miller Johnson, we combine an entrepreneurial mindset with a commitment to practical results. We think like business owners—proactive, resourceful, and driven to create tailored solutions that make a difference. Our clients trust us to cut through complexity, deliver clear advice, and stay focused on outcomes. Rooted in the communities we serve, we build lasting relationships based on trust, loyalty, and shared success.With more than 170 attorneys across offices in Chicago, Cincinnati, Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo, Miller Johnson offers the depth and reach to serve clients regionally and nationally.Position OverviewMiller Johnson’s Grand Rapids office is seeking second-year law students for our 2027 Summer Associate Program. Summer Associates work closely with attorneys on meaningful legal assignments, gain exposure to sophisticated client matters, and build relationships across the firm through mentorship and professional development opportunities.Office & Practice Group OpportunitiesGrand Rapids, MISummer Associates in Grand Rapids will primarily receive assignments in:Corporate, Mergers & AcquisitionsLabor & EmploymentLitigationReal EstateDetroit, MISummer Associates In Detroit Will Primarily Receive Assignments InIntellectual Property (Patent Prosecution)LitigationChicago, ILSummer Associates In Chicago Will Primarily Receive Assignments InCorporate, Mergers & AcquisitionsIntellectual Property LitigationLitigationOur Summer Associates may also have opportunities for broader exposure to additional practice areas depending on business needs and workflow throughout the summer.Key ResponsibilitiesDraft motions, legal memoranda, contracts, and other legal documents under attorney supervisionConduct legal research to support client matters and ongoing litigation or transactional workParticipate in client meetings, strategy discussions, and internal team meetingsCollaborate with attorneys and fellow Summer Associates on substantive legal projectsObserve court proceedings, depositions, negotiations, or client meetings when availableParticipate in mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities throughout the summerQualificationsCurrent second-year law student (2L) expected to graduate in 2028Strong academic credentialsExcellent research, writing, and communication skillsDemonstrated professionalism, initiative, and collaborative mindsetInterest in transactional and/or litigation-focused legal practiceAdditional Qualifications For Intellectual Property CandidatesCandidates interested in Intellectual Property opportunities should possess:A background in computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related technical field preferredPatent bar eligibility preferred for certain IP opportunitiesCulture & BenefitsAt Miller Johnson, our culture is anchored in our Core Values and how we work together.Who We AreIntegrity and Candor – We speak the truthDown to Earth – We stay humble and realGrit – We push through and get it doneCommitted to Excellence – We raise the barCommitted to Impact – We lift others upHow We WorkEntrepreneurial Mindset – We think like ownersDown to Business – We move fast and stay practicalRooted and Invested – We build lasting trustSummer Associate FeedbackHere is some of the feedback we received from prior Summer Associates:Firm Culture“Miller Johnson is full of attorneys who genuinely love what they do and who enjoy the people they do it with. The culture strikes a rare balance: the individuals here are incredibly smart and accomplished, yet down-to-earth and approachable.”“I saw firm culture as hard-working and high-achieving, along with genuine care about employees’ lives outside of work and having a presence in the community.”Mentorship“My mentor was a significant part of my development this summer… this support was a consistent presence throughout every experience.”“The firm’s culture of intentional mentorship and investment in junior talent had the greatest impact on my experience.”Work Assignments“The assignments were substantively engaging and posed intellectual challenges.”“It truly felt like the work of an associate and gave me a chance to learn through doing and receive feedback that I can take into my career.”Application InstructionsTo apply for the 2027 2L Summer Associate Program, please submit:ResumeCover LetterLaw School Transcript (unofficial transcripts accepted)Writing SampleIn Your Cover Letter, Please IndicateWhich office location(s) you are most interested in:Grand Rapids, MIDetroit, MIChicago, ILWhich practice group(s) most interest you:Corporate, Mergers & AcquisitionsLabor & EmploymentLitigationReal EstateIntellectual Property