Launch Your Legal Career at MBL
At McDonald Baas & Livingston PLLC our law clerks and summer associates are immersed in real insurance defense litigation. They research, write, observe depositions and trials, and work closely with attorneys who are invested in mentorship and growth.
We are now recruiting for 2026 summer law clerks, as well as law clerks looking for a flexible work schedule during the year – students who want meaningful experience, strong mentorship, and real exposure to insurance defense litigation and coverage and will be seeking their license to practice law in Michigan.
Who Are We?
- 150 total attorneys and legal professionals proudly serving Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 insurance companies in Michigan and beyond.
- Headquartered in Troy, Michigan. Our flexible work arrangements support our attorneys and professionals’ lives and deliver greater accessibility and responsiveness for clients.
- In 2026 we are the #15 Largest Law Firm in Michigan by number of attorneys, according to Crain’s Detroit Business. We are the largest firm in the state focusing solely on insurance defense and coverage with 80+ attorneys.
What Sets Us Apart
-
Shadowing & mentoring experience
-
Continued training including monthly in-house educational trainings
-
Access to experienced attorneys and advisors
-
Collaborative, growth-oriented environment
The Summer Associate Program
The MBL Summer Associate Program is a hands-on, immersive experience designed for law students who want real exposure to insurance defense litigation. Our clerks work alongside experienced attorneys on active cases, gain practical skills you can’t learn in the classroom, and build meaningful relationships within a growing, collaborative firm.
From day one, you’ll be treated as part of the team—learning how cases are evaluated, developed, and defended while working directly with attorneys who are invested in mentorship and professional growth.

Program Highlights
- 10-week program focused on meaningful, hands-on legal work — June 1-August 7, 2026
- Direct exposure to insurance defense and civil litigation
- Real client and claims-focused experience
- Structured training sessions and professional development opportunities
- Formal mentorship from partners and associates
- Opportunities to observe depositions, mediations, and court proceedings
- Networking and firm social events that highlight MBL’s culture
What You’ll Do
As a Summer Law Clerk at MBL, you will:
- Draft legal documents, including motions, memoranda, and discovery materials
- Conduct legal research and analyze statutes, case law, and regulations
- Assist attorneys with case strategy, evaluation, and litigation preparation
- Collaborate directly with attorneys
- Gain firsthand insight into how insurance defense cases progress from intake through litigation
Join A Firm on the Rise!
MBL is seeking motivated, curious law students who want to learn by doing. Interested students should apply HERE.
Contact: Lauren Thomas, MBL HR Director | lauren.thomas@mblfirm.com


