Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger invites exceptional law students to apply for our 2026 Summer Associate Program—a dynamic, hands-on experience designed to develop your advocacy skills while immersing you in the work and culture of one of the nation’s premier plaintiff trial firms.

We’re looking for applicants with sharp analytical minds, strong legal writing abilities, and a demonstrated commitment to justice on behalf of injured individuals. Ideal applicants will show initiative, intellectual curiosity, and a collaborative mindset. Above all, we’re looking for future trial lawyers who are eager to learn, ready to contribute, and motivated to make a difference through meaningful legal work.

What You’ll Experience

• Real Casework: Collaborate with seasoned trial attorneys on active litigation matters—research, strategize, and contribute meaningfully to the outcomes.
• Partner-Led Workshops & Training: Learn from the best. Our Partners run tailored training sessions covering trial advocacy, deposition skills, legal writing, and more.
• Individual Mentorship: Receive dedicated mentorship that will provide guidance, feedback, and professional support throughout the summer.
• Citywide Networking: Attend exclusive events with attorneys, judges, and legal professionals across San Francisco.
• Social Events Calendar: From Giants games to our Summer Reception, enjoy a summer filled with social outings and opportunities to connect with your cohort and firm members.
• Brief Writing Contest: Put your writing skills to the test in our annual contest judged by a panel of Walkup Partners. Recognition—and bragging rights—awaits.

Our program is designed to give you a true sense of life at Walkup and help launch your legal career.

What Our Former Summer Associates Are Saying

“What I enjoyed most was the ability to do real work. Actually getting to participate in preparing for trials, participate in preparing for depositions, and at my luckiest getting to prepare for a motion before the court.” — CJ / UC College of the Law SF

“My experience at Walkup was amazing. I got to see so many different parts of a case. I had a bird’s-eye view of the litigation lifecycle. It was a great summer and I really feel like I was given intentional assignments to help me learn about what it’s like to be a plaintiff’s lawyer.” — SL / UC Berkeley School of Law

“My experience here was very enriching and eventful. I had an opportunity to dive into certain areas of the law that I had only read cases about and only learned in the classroom.” — MK / UC College of the Law SF

How to Apply

Ready to embark on a rewarding summer experience? Apply now to join our Summer Associate Program at Walkup Melodia Kelly & Schoenberger.

Application Deadline: 9/30/2025
Assignment Dates: 6/8/26 – 8/7/26 ($65 per hour)
Application Requirements: Include a resume, cover letter, and writing samples

Visit our Summer Associates page to learn more and watch video compilations.

Contact Us