Pathways Program

Increasing pathways to build a more diverse legal community

At Latham, you belong as you are. Our firm comprises talented people from around the world, reflecting a rich mixture of racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, religions, cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, and primary languages. Our people are our greatest asset.

We are seeking the best and brightest students with fresh perspectives on how to best serve our clients and deepen our culture of inclusion and allyship for one another.

Latham’s Pathways Program is intended to help students through law school while also relieving some of the financial pressure as they begin to practice in a way that’s meaningful and impactful to clients, society, and our firm.

1L Diversity Scholars Program

Our 1L Diversity Scholars Program offers a unique opportunity to students of all backgrounds who have just finished their first year of law school at an ABA-accredited school. The 10-week program includes:

In-depth legal training, mentoring, and real-world experience at one of Latham’s US offices and a secondment to the legal department of one of our clients. 1L Diversity Scholars will work alongside summer associates.

An invitation to Latham’s Student Diversity Leadership Academy, a multi-day program focused on developing and empowering the legal industry’s future leaders.

A variety of opportunities offered through the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD) for 1L Scholars.

2L Diversity Scholars Program

Our 2L Diversity Scholars Program offers a unique opportunity to students of all backgrounds who have just finished their second year of law school at an ABA-accredited school. The 10-week program includes:

In-depth legal training, mentoring, and real-world experience at one of Latham’s US or London offices. 2L Diversity Scholars will work alongside summer associates.

A weekly salary throughout the 10-week program, plus eligibility for a scholarship up to US$50,000.

An opportunity to participate in our Client Mentorship Program.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion — Latham's Pathways Program

Selection Criteria

The application process is open to all first and second-year law students enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school, regardless of race, color, religion, citizenship, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, military service, disability, or any other characteristic or condition protected by applicable law.

In addition to our general selection criteria for Summer Program opportunities, Latham’s Recruiting Committee will evaluate all applications and consider the following factors:

Demonstrated commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in their communities and/or in the legal profession
Obstacles or challenges (financial or otherwise) encountered in advancing career objectives
Life experiences that have shaped values (including a commitment to DEI) and professional goals

Personal Statement Requirement

In addition to our general application requirements for Summer Program opportunities, we require a personal statement (500 to 1,000 words) addressing your resilience and tenacity, how you will contribute to Latham’s inclusive culture and diverse community, and/or experiences that have shaped your commitment to DEI in the legal profession.

Eligibility

Enrolled in a JD program at an ABA-accredited law school with an anticipated graduation date of 2026 (for 2025 2L Diversity Scholars) or 2027 (for 2025 1L Diversity Scholars) at the time of application.
Must participate in Latham’s full 10-week Summer Program, starting in May. Exceptions to this start date will only be made due to academic calendar conflicts.
Demonstrate a commitment to promoting DEI within the legal community and/or more broadly.

Application Links, Dates, and Deadlines

Visit our Summer Program opportunities page for application links, dates, and deadlines.

Learn More

At Latham you are encouraged to bring your own unique perspective, because our diversity fuels understanding and innovation. Learn more about Latham’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, including our world-class programs, affinity groups, and accolades. To speak to a recruiter directly, contact AssociateRecruiting.Global@lw.com.