Summer programs are traditionally gateways to securing employment post-graduation and allow firms and students the chance to see if they are the right fit for each other. The piece sees the local trend as a reflection of the summer employment market for law students across the country. According to the National Association of Law Placement, there will be fewer jobs this year than seen at the start of the recession, less than half the level than two years prior. Less summer employment increases the likelihood of fewer jobs for graduates as well.