Summer Associate Program

Summer Associate Program at Kitahama Partners

Kitahama Partners, Western Japan's leading law firm headquartered in Nakanoshima, Osaka, invites applications for its Summer Associate Program. This programme offers law students the opportunity to experience legal practice at the premier firm of the Kansai region, with a focus on litigation, corporate, and real estate law.

Programme Overview

Kitahama Partners' Summer Associate Program runs for 2 weeks during the July-September period. The programme provides an authentic view of practice at a major regional firm, with the advantages of a closer-knit team environment compared to Tokyo's mega-firms. Participants receive meaningful work assignments and direct partner interaction from day one.

What You Will Experience

Summer associates will gain exposure to litigation before the Osaka District Court (大阪地方裁判所) and Osaka High Court (大阪高等裁判所), corporate advisory under the Companies Act (会社法), real estate transactions, and insolvency proceedings under the Civil Rehabilitation Act (民事再生法) and Bankruptcy Act (破産法). Kitahama Partners' strong Kansai presence means exposure to the region's diverse client base, from major Osaka-headquartered corporations to SMEs.

The Nakanoshima office in the heart of Osaka's business district provides convenient access to the Osaka courts and the vibrant Kansai legal community. The programme includes court visits, networking events, and social activities exploring Osaka's culture and cuisine.

Programme Details

• Duration: 2 weeks (July-September)
• Compensation: Paid programme
• Location: Nakanoshima, Osaka
• Focus on litigation, corporate, and real estate practice areas

• Conduct legal research on litigation and corporate law topics
• Draft research memoranda under partner and associate supervision
• Observe court proceedings at the Osaka District Court (大阪地方裁判所)
• Assist with document preparation for ongoing matters
• Participate in mock trial or negotiation exercises
• Attend networking events with Kitahama Partners lawyers and staff
• Complete a research project focused on Kansai-region legal issues

• Enrolled in a hōka daigakuin (法科大学院), typically 2nd or 3rd year
• Alternatively, passed the yobi shiken (予備試験)
• Interest in litigation, dispute resolution, or the Kansai legal market
• Registered with the Osaka Bar Association (大阪弁護士会) membership preferred upon qualification
• Strong academic record and legal research capabilities
• Connection to the Kansai region or interest in practicing in Osaka
• Available for the full 2-week programme period