Overview
Entry Level Associates – Fall of 2027 (Detroit and Grand Rapids) Jobs in Detroit, MI at Warner Norcross + Judd
Title: Entry Level Associates – Fall of 2027 (Detroit and Grand Rapids)
Company: Warner Norcross + Judd
Location: Detroit, MI
Description
About the Position
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP is accepting applications for entry-level associates to join the firm in the fall 2027. New associates will work on substantive client matters with attorneys across the firm, receive structured training and mentoring, and build core skills while developing a long-term practice.
These positions will be based in our Detroit or Grand Rapids offices. New associates will initially receive assignments across multiple practice areas through the firm’s “Job Jar” system. This broad exposure is designed to help associates develop foundational skills while allowing both the associate and the firm to assess where the associate’s interests and demonstrated strengths align with current and anticipated client and practice needs. Practice group placement will ultimately reflect that alignment and the opportunities available within the firm.
What You’ll Do
- Research and analyze complex legal issues and communicate practical recommendations
- Draft memoranda, pleadings, motions, briefs, agreements, client communications and other legal documents appropriate to assigned matters
- Support discovery, due diligence, negotiations, closings, hearings, depositions and client meetings, depending on the matter and practice
- Manage assignments and deadlines with attention to quality, efficiency and client service
- Collaborate with partners, senior counsel, associates and professional staff across offices and practice areas
- Participate in training, mentoring, pro bono and community opportunities
Who We’re Looking For
- A current 3L law student expected to earn a JD from an ABA-accredited law school no later than June 30, 2027. Judicial clerks whose terms end on or before September 1, 2027 are also encouraged to apply
- Eligibility to sit for the July 2027 Michigan bar examination and a commitment to become admitted in Michigan as soon as practicable
- A strong record of academic achievement; top 20% preferred. Warner considers the full academic, professional and personal record and does not use class rank as an automatic cutoff
- Excellent research, writing, analytical and oral communication skills
- Sound judgment, initiative, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities
- A collaborative approach grounded in teamwork, collegiality, integrity, and client service
- A genuine interest in building a long-term legal career in Michigan and working regularly from the assigned Warner office
What Warner Offers
- Meaningful work and responsibility. New associates contribute to sophisticated client matters while receiving the support needed to succeed.
- Structured development. Training, project-level feedback and mentoring help associates build skills and confidence from day one.
- Freedom to find the right fit. Where the position permits, first-year associates can explore assignments across practice areas before committing to a path.
- A genuinely collaborative model. Warner’s compensation structure encourages teamwork and reduces internal competition for work and credit.
- Sustainable expectations. Warner’s 1,750-hour associate billable goal supports excellent client service, professional growth and a full life outside work.
- A nationally recognized culture. Warner ranked among Vault’s Top 10 Best Law Firms to Work For in both 2025 and 2026, including #1 for Transparency and Best Law Firms for Women.
About Warner
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP is one of Michigan’s largest law firms, with more than 230 attorneys in nine offices: Bloomfield Hills, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Macomb County, Midland and Muskegon. We provide sophisticated legal counsel to organizations throughout Michigan, across the country and around the world. To learn more, visit www.wnj.com, or follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook.
About Our Culture
Warner’s cultural motto is “Fun, Pride + Profit…in that Order.” We build A Better Partnership through:
- Teamwork – Warner’s lockstep compensation model encourages teamwork and distinguishes us from our competitors. Partner and associate salaries are set based upon seniority, not total hours worked, encouraging client legal projects to be routed to the most knowledgeable person in the firm. Our team approach to compensation yields better legal representation for our clients and lays the foundation for a fun culture without internal financial competition. We have a team atmosphere where people like working together and supporting each other.
- Diversity – At Warner, we take an “all in” approach to DEI – engaging people at all levels of the firm to lead and participate on DEI committees and initiatives. This ensures a broad base of support from team members truly invested in leading the charge. It’s because of their time and efforts we are as successful as we are – and that success radiates throughout the whole firm. Our DEI work has become not only the right thing to do, but more importantly, what our people want to do.
- Careers – Our culture of balanced personal and professional lifestyle allows us to maintain a 94% attorney retention rate. Attorneys throughout Michigan, the region and beyond are choosing Warner as their forever home – and because of our dedicated focus on living balanced lives, our attorneys’ families are fully supporting these important decisions.
- Community – Warner’s time-honored community engagement initiatives include financial contributions to 150+ nonprofits, scholarships and paid time off for all firm members to engage in community initiatives that are meaningful to them.
About Our Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Firm-provided life insurance and disability coverage
- 401k with employer contribution or match depending on plan design
- Generous (flexible) PTO and leave policies
- Firm holidays
- Remote work flexibility
- Wellness program
- Employee assistance program
- Professional development opportunities
How To Apply
Please submit the following through Warner’s online applicant portal:
- Resume.
- Cover letter addressed to Lindsae Badgerow, Director of Attorney Recruiting, explaining your interest in Warner, the position and the relevant Michigan office/community.
- Law school transcript (an unofficial copy is acceptable).
Closing Statement
Warner hires top talent at every point in our organization. We are seeking dedicated professionals with diverse backgrounds who strive to support the firm and its goals. Our collegial culture attracts people with diverse skills and backgrounds who are dedicated to teamwork and client service.
