Summer Associate Program
The summer program plays a vital role in Adam Leclair’s recruitment efforts.
We believe that our program is a two-way interview—you are evaluating our firm as a future place to work, just as we are evaluating you as a future colleague after law school. In addition to coordinated work assignments and dedicated mentoring, our program includes social and professional events designed to offer insight into life at Adams Leclair.
-
As a summer associate, you will have the opportunity to work on cases directly with partners and associates. You will be assigned to multiple cases across our different practice areas to ensure that you have an opportunity to explore different areas of litigation. As you work on cases, you will receive direct and valuable feedback from the attorney overseeing the case. You are also encouraged to attend depositions, oral arguments, mediations, and any observational opportunities to grow your skills as a future attorney.
-
Throughout the course of the summer program, you will have the opportunity to get to know everyone who works at Adams Leclair both inside and outside the office, as well as have the opportunity to meet other attorneys in the community. Past summer programs have included social events such as a golf outing, a pedal tour, axe-throwing, and a firm picnic. Professional events have included a tour of the Fourth Department Appellate Division, a tour of the United States District Court for the Western District of New York in Rochester (including a discussion with Chief Judge Wolford), and an intergenerational communication seminar. Our goal is to make sure that you have fun, get to know your colleagues, and continue to develop as a future attorney.
-
You will receive hands-on training in areas such as legal research, writing, client communication, and e-discovery. The goal of our training is to equip you with the necessary skills to foster your talent as a litigator.
-
You will be assigned an associate mentor who can answer any question you may have, and serve as a resource to help familiarize you with the different practice areas, attorneys, and work you will be doing throughout the summer.
-
You will have the opportunity to develop your oral argument abilities through a mock oral argument. In prior years, summer associates have argued a summary judgement motion in front of a panel of “judges” comprised of their colleagues. This is an opportunity for you to nurture your advocacy abilities.
-
Adams Leclair will interview applicants for its 2027 Summer Associates Program during the Spring and Summer of 2026.
Review the full program description here.
To apply, please send a copy of your resume, cover letter, unofficial transcript, and a writing sample to humanresources@adamsleclair.law.
Summer Associate Testimonial
Jack Cassidy
“My name is Jack Cassidy, and I have been an associate at Adams Leclair since September of 2024. I was a summer associate at Adams Leclair after my 2L year in the summer of 2023. During my summer here I got a lot of opportunities to observe and participate in all stages of the litigation process. I gained valuable experience by performing real work and through being mentored by some of the best litigators in Upstate New York. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time so far at Adams Leclair and am looking forward to building my career here.”
Summer Associate Testimonial
Denice Ciaora
“I joined Adams Leclair as an associate in September, 2025, after my summer associate position in the summer of 2024. The firm made a genuine effort to invest in my professional development. I had weekly check‑ins with my mentor, which provided consistent guidance and meaningful feedback throughout the summer. I was given the opportunity to gain hands‑on experience, including attending court to observe oral argument, as well as substantive assignments such as researching legal issues and drafting memoranda that were ultimately filed with the court. What stood out most was how involved I felt in each matter—I was never left wondering how my work fit into the bigger picture. Associates and partners took the time to explain how my research was used, share final work product, and discuss what was helpful and what could be improved. That transparency reflects the firm’s genuine commitment to helping everyone succeed and supporting one another as a team.”