Summer Associate - Wilmington, NC

Cordell & Cordell has the benefits you'd expect from a large national firm. We offer competitive compensation, exceptional health care benefits, and prioritize work-life balance to ensure the well-being and productivity of our employees. Our focus on family law allows us to make a meaningful impact by helping families navigate challenging and pivotal times in their lives.

Summer Associate – Explore a Future in Family Law with Cordell & Cordell

Job Type: Paid Internship

Experience Level: 0+ Years

Cordell & Cordell is seeking highly motivated second-year law students with a genuine interest in a career in family law to join our Summer Associate Program in one of our offices across the United States. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in family law while working alongside seasoned attorneys and firm leaders. Our program is designed to mirror the experience of a first-year associate, providing meaningful legal work, direct mentorship, and professional development opportunities.

Upon completion of the Summer Associate Program, many of our associates are offered part-time law clerk positions during their third year, and full-time positions upon graduation. Our goal is to provide a pathway to a career in family law. (Note that long-term locations may not align to the office for the summer internship.)

About us:

Cordell & Cordell is the largest domestic litigation firm in the United States focused on Family Law. With decades of experience, we have built a reputation for providing strategic, client-focused representation. Our attorneys are backed by a strong administrative and marketing support system, cutting-edge technologies powered by our partnership with Lexicon, and a commitment to professional development through Cordell College and other professional learning and development programs.

What You’ll Do:

• Draft and analyze legal documents in active family law matters.
• Conduct legal research and assist in the preparation of trial materials.
• Attend court proceedings with experienced attorneys.
• Participate in client meetings and gain insight into case strategy.
• Work closely with a Litigation Partner to develop a foundational understanding of family law practice.
• Engage in firm-sponsored networking and social events.
• Other tasks as needed that help us effectively run our business.

What We Are Looking For:

• Current 2L student (2028 graduate) in good standing at an accredited law school.
• Demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in family law.
• Law School GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Ability to relocate or reside in the office location assigned for the duration of the program.
• Flexibility in destinations upon graduation from law school.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Locations for 2027:

• Arizona - Phoenix (Peoria)
• Colorado - Denver
• Florida - Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa
• Georgia - Atlanta
• Michigan - Ann Arbor
• Minnesota - Minneapolis (Edina)
• Missouri - St. Louis
• North Carolina - Charlotte, Raleigh, Wilmington
• Ohio - Columbus
• Texas - San Antonio, Houston
• Utah - Midvale
• Virginia - Falls Church, Richmond, Virginia Beach

All applications must have an attached cover letter, resume, and most current law school transcript to be considered for our summer associate program.

• This role is not eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases and bonuses.
• This role is not eligible for our full time benefits package.

Hourly Pay Rate:

$35—$35 USD

Cordell & Cordell provides exceptional benefits and a great working environment including:
We also offer our full-time employees the following benefits:

• Medical Plans: including HDHP, PPO, HSA and FSA
• Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D, Long-Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings with Employer Matching
• Paid time off
• Participate in our Wellness Program and potentially earn Employer Paid health premiums!

For more information: