Top US law firms are accelerating their hiring timelines, with Paul Weiss, Simpson Thacher, and Milbank beginning application processes before Christmas for first-year law students seeking 2028 summer associate roles. This marks a significant shift from the traditional system, where firms interviewed students at the end of their first year. The move reflects an intensified war for talent, with summer roles serving as a gateway to permanent positions offering salaries up to $235,000.

However, the early hiring has sparked backlash from students and the legal community. Rachel Proffitt, CEO of Cooley, criticized the trend, calling it "crazy" to hire students without first-semester grades. The American Bar Association condemned the practice, citing increased anxiety and depression among students and disadvantages for first-generation law students.

Despite criticism, most top firms declined to comment. Maureen Linch of Cleary Gottlieb acknowledged the pressure to stay competitive, noting many students lack clarity about practice areas. The shift from on-campus interviews to direct online applications began during the pandemic, with firms like Davis Polk and Kirkland & Ellis opening applications in autumn.

Some firms, including Goodwin, are reevaluating their strategies as AI reshapes legal work.