Law students can gain work experience through summer internships at law firms, public defenders, prosecutors, legal aid organizations, and advocacy groups. Interns may interact with clients, attend trials, and conduct legal research. Excellent grades, extracurricular accomplishments, and letters of recommendation are necessary for competitive positions. The internship typically starts with an orientation and may include rotating through various positions. Independent work is encouraged, but interns can ask questions and access resources. Successful interns may be invited to return or apply for positions after graduation.
A summer internship provides an opportunity for a law student to experience the work environment in a law firm. Companies accept a limited number of employees each year into competitive positions. Each employee is typically assigned a lawyer as a mentor and supervisor. The experience may depend on the firm and how it runs its internship program, but it can include chances to interact with clients, see trials in action, and provide support to working attorneys. Students who want to be competitive in internship applications typically need excellent grades, extracurricular accomplishments, and letters of recommendation.
Law firms aren’t the only option for a summer internship. People can work for judges as well as public defenders and prosecutors. Legal aid organizations and advocacy groups may also hire people for summer internships. The type of position to apply for can depend on the type of law a student intends to practice. Someone who wants to be a corporate lawyer, for example, would likely want to pursue positions with companies that offer these types of services, whereas a future public interest lawyer might work for a not-for-profit organization.
Typically, a summer internship starts with an orientation. Employees are designated mentors and familiar with the organization. They can be given keys, network access codes, and other tools they need to work. Some organizations have partnership or group staff and encourage them to work together, while others may facilitate more independent work. Employees may also receive information about privileges, such as access to a company gym or car service.
During a summer internship, many organizations rotate employees in various positions. This allows people to experience a variety of work environments and learn more about different types of laws. Employees may be required to conduct legal research and prepare written discussion and documentation. They can also attend testimonials, client meetings, and similar events. Employees can accompany lawyers to court, attending meetings with judges and filling out legal documents.
Employees are generally encouraged to be as independent as possible, but asking questions during a summer internship is preferred if someone is unsure about how to do something or needs assistance. Law libraries and other resources are available, along with employee manuals and guides to help people with activities such as writing legal documents. People who excel during the summer internship may have the opportunity to return the following year or may be invited to apply for positions within the company or organization after graduation.
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