Morrison Foerster (“MoFo”) was among the first international law firms licensed in Japan when our Tokyo office opened in 1987. Today, it is the largest international law firm in the country, and our Summer Associate Program is a U.S.-style program unlike any other in the local market. It’s built around three things: Impact, Innovation, and Investment.

Impact: You take on work that matters, the kind of assignments we give junior associates. Working on substantive client matters, you will:

• Prepare drafts of briefs, motions, contracts, and client memoranda;

• Participate in drafting and negotiation sessions;

• Attend depositions and witness preparation sessions; and

• Support due diligence on corporate transactions.

Innovation: We offer the broadest practice of any international firm in Japan and handle some of the most complex, sophisticated cross-border matters. With a team of more than 100 lawyers, over 50 of them native Japanese speakers or fluent in the language, we advise many of Japan’s leading corporations, prominent international companies operating in the region, and major financial institutions and investors, including leading global private equity firms.

Investment: From day one, you’re part of the team. You’ll receive dedicated mentoring, build your network, and work closely with lawyers at every level, both U.S.-qualified and Japan-licensed, as well as with clients. Along the way, you’ll take part in social events in and around Tokyo.

Who We Are

MoFo is a destination law firm where ambitious lawyers do their best work. We take on our clients’ most complex and consequential matters, and we develop the people behind them. The lawyers who thrive here bring curiosity, ownership, and a genuine commitment to the work and to one another.

We’re deeply committed to our values, pro bono work, and inclusivity. To learn more, explore our digital resources, including our interactive Summer Associate Program brochure, virtual job simulations, the MoFo+ blog, and topic-based playlists on MoFo To-Go.

Who You Are

We are seeking individuals of exceptional intelligence who are eager to tackle complex and challenging problems, and who yearn to be part of a multicultural office that values inclusivity, teamwork, and commitment with confidence and a “get-it-done” attitude. Applicants should have a serious interest in living and working in Japan. Japanese language skills are not a prerequisite but are viewed favorably.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted through February 28, 2027. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis from October 1, through November 20, 2026 and then will resume in late December.

All applicants must submit the following documents as pdfs:

• Résumé;

• Cover letter indicating interest in the Tokyo office;

• Transcripts for all degrees (both completed and in progress); and

• A writing sample of your choosing (5 to 12 pages).

Compensation

Summer associate compensation is set to align with first-year associate salaries at $215,000 for the class of 2026. This amount may be modified in the future. Health and wellness benefits and paid holidays may also be included.

EEO Statement

Morrison Foerster provides equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. The firm does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of an individual’s sex (including in connection with pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), race, color, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), creed, ethnic or national origin, ancestry, age, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran or military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, transgender status, domestic partner status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law, ordinance, or regulation.