In-House Legal Summer Associate at Fulcrum GT in Chicago, IL

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are seeking 5 to 6 high-caliber law students for our Summer 2026 In-House Legal program. This is a rigorous, fast-paced residency designed for 1L and 2L students who want a 360-degree view of the legal operations within a global technology firm.

Working directly with our General Counsel and collaborating with our specialized outside counsel, you will navigate the legal complexities of a firm with international operations, global customers, and an internal venture studio. We do not believe in a one-size-fits-all experience; our goal is to align your specific legal interests—whether in IP, immigration, or corporate law—with the diverse needs of our firm.

As part of our internal legal team, you will support various pillars of the business:

• Commercial & Contract Law: Assisting in the drafting and review of software licenses, SaaS agreements, and vendor contracts for our global customer base.
• Intellectual Property: Supporting the firm's existing IP portfolio and the Startup Lab by managing the research and filing of trademarks and provisional patents for new ventures and protecting the firm’s core proprietary technologies.
• Immigration Law: Navigating the compliance and filing requirements for our international workforce and Startup Lab associates, specifically focusing on F-1 student visas, CPT, and OPT, as well as, H-1B and related visas.
• Employment & International Operations: Researching and advising on employment statutes and operational risks across our Chicago, Hyderabad, and London offices.
• Corporate Governance: Assisting with internal policies, risk management, and the legal frameworks required for rapid scale.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Academic Standing: Currently enrolled as a 1L or 2L at a top-tier law school.
• Proven Performance: We prioritize candidates with high academic achievement and a demonstrated history of excellence (LSAT 165+).
• Versatility: A desire to work across multiple disciplines of law and the ability to pivot between complex research and practical drafting.
• Future of Law: A keen interest in the legal implications of emerging technologies, specifically the global regulatory landscape of AI and its impact on traditional contract and IP frameworks.
• Precision: Exceptional communication skills and the ability to interface with senior leadership and external counsel with technical accuracy.
• Schedule: Start date: 1 June 2026; End date: 28 August 2026. Onsite.

 

COMPENSATION & PERKS

• Competitive salary commensurate with academic year and experience.
• Substantive legal work that moves beyond typical clerical duties.
• Exposure to the intersection of law, technology, and startups.
• Fully stocked kitchen with assorted drinks & snacks.
• Social and team-building events.
• Professional development through mentors, training, and networking.
• Opportunities for travel.
• Future opportunities—simplified pathway to employment.