Summer Internship 2026

Overview
Discover how a global law firm helps clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. At DLA Piper, our pursuit of innovation has transformed the delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

For our people, that means a world of opportunity. See the impact we make in the UK and around the world and explore the intersection of law and business. By joining our internship programme in Manchester you'll start to build the foundation of a global legal career, collaborating with colleagues and clients on high-value matters that shape industries. Give your career the best platform and discover if law is a career you can thrive in.

Your time with us

Our internship goes beyond shadowing, you'll be part of the team, trusted with real responsibilities. You'll see how our purpose-led approach drives impact through technology, pro bono work and sustainability initiatives.

From attending court hearings to working with clients and collaborating with leading professionals, you'll gain hands-on insight into the legal world. You will learn what it takes to succeed as a commercial lawyer in a fast-paced, global environment and connect with partners, lawyers, and trainees along the way.

During The Internship, You Will

• Experience the complexities of our work and discover how you can make a real impact around the world. You'll see how we think across borders to find creative solutions for our clients.
• Join a forward-looking, innovative team while gaining experience working on client matters.
• Develop your knowledge and skills through structured learning and development opportunities.
• Be supported by a solid network of supervisors, buddies, and mentors to develop your confidence and identify your own personal and professional goals.
• Be part of an international early careers community full of talented colleagues who'll become part of your personal global network.
• Have opportunities to engage with initiatives beyond your role, including legal tech, sustainability and pro bono work.
• You'll have the freedom to discover your own path and make an impact beyond the borders of traditional law. Tomorrow's legal industry can't hire yesterday's skills.

Come and show us your strengths in action, and following your time with us you may be offered a position on our international training programme.

Work with us to unlock your potential and start your journey to building a different kind of legal career.

Eligibility

If you are studying a law degree: you can apply for the programme if you are a second-year student on a three-year course, a third-year student on a four-year course or in your final year of study.

If you are studying a non-law degree: you can apply for the programme if you are in your final year of study.

You can apply if you have already graduated or are a career changer.

You must meet the entry requirements via the University of Law website.

You must have the right to work for the duration of the programme in the location which you have chosen. DLA Piper is unable to sponsor visas for the Summer Internship.

You are only able to apply once per year for one of our Summer Internships.

What we look for

In addition to the eligibility criteria, we're looking for individuals from a wide range of backgrounds who have the potential to thrive in a career in law.

To succeed on our early careers programmes, you don't need any specific legal experience or education, but you will:

• Have an interest in international commercial law and business.
• Have a forward-thinking and entrepreneurial mindset and will be excited about doing things differently in the legal industry.
• Be proactive and self-motivated with a great desire to achieve your personal and professional goals.
• Enjoy collaborating with others and will be instinctively socially aware.
• Have a growth mindset. You'll see setbacks as learning opportunities, and you'll proactively look for ways to grow and develop.
• Enjoy working in an ever-changing environment.
• Enjoy taking ownership of tasks and thinking critically.

About Us
At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and continuously encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.

We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know. Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.