Law Internship: Application Strategies For Success

Applying for a law internship can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. Law internships are a great way for undergraduates to gain exposure to the legal profession and develop valuable skills. During an internship, you may perform complex legal research, draft documents, and even interact with clients. To find the right internship, it's important to network and utilize your school's career center. When applying, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each firm, and don't be afraid to apply to smaller companies, as they often have more flexibility. Prepare for common interview questions and present yourself professionally to make a strong impression. Law internships are a valuable step towards a career in the legal field.

Where to find law internships

There are several avenues to explore when looking for law internships. Firstly, consider your academic institution. Many universities and colleges have dedicated career services or pre-professional advising offices that can provide information on available internships. These offices often maintain relationships with legal employers and can guide you towards suitable opportunities. They may also offer resources for resume and cover letter writing, as well as interview preparation, to strengthen your applications.

Additionally, your academic department can be a valuable source of information. For law internships, the Political Science department often oversees internships, and you don't necessarily need to be a Political Science major to access these opportunities. These internships can be in various areas, including government, courts, and local law firms.

Another approach is to utilise online job platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed. These websites frequently list legal internship positions, allowing you to search for opportunities based on your location and preferences. You can set up alerts on these platforms to receive notifications when new internships are posted, helping you stay ahead of the competition.

You can also take a more direct approach by identifying organisations or law firms you are interested in and checking their websites for internship postings. Many law firms and legal organisations have dedicated internship programs, and they usually advertise these opportunities on their websites, providing details on eligibility, application processes, and deadlines.

Lastly, networking is a powerful tool in your internship search. Attend legal events, join pre-law student organisations, and connect with professionals in the field. Building relationships with attorneys and legal professionals can provide insights into potential internships and may even lead to referrals or recommendations for positions.

How to prepare for the interview

Preparing for a law internship interview can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies, you can ace it and increase your chances of landing that coveted internship. Here are some detailed tips to help you prepare:

Know the Role and the Firm:

Research the law firm or legal department you are interviewing with. Understand their work, clients, and areas of specialization. This demonstrates your interest in the organization and shows that you are a good fit for the role. Learn about the latest market developments within the legal industry that are relevant to the firm. Join online forums and stay updated on topical legal discussions.

Anticipate Interview Questions:

Think about the types of questions you are likely to be asked during the interview. Common questions include "Tell me about yourself," "Why do you want to intern with us?" and "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" but be prepared for more specific questions related to your background, skills, and motivation. If you have previous legal experience, be ready to discuss it in detail. Prepare clear and concise descriptions of your previous roles and how they relate to the internship.

Practice Your Responses:

While it's important to anticipate questions, avoid scripting your answers as this may make you sound rehearsed. Instead, think through what you would say and practice delivering your responses confidently. Use the STAR technique to structure your answers, especially when discussing past experiences or challenges. The STAR technique includes:

• Situation or Task: Provide context and an overview of the problem or issue.
• Action: Describe the actions you took or the skills you used to address the issue.
• Result: Summarize the outcome or lessons learned.

Dress Professionally:

First impressions matter, so ensure you dress appropriately for the interview. Opt for business attire and ensure your appearance is neat and well-groomed. Even if the company has a dress-down policy, it's best to err on the side of caution and dress formally.

Ask Thoughtful Questions:

Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your genuine interest and engagement. For example, you could ask about the types of projects interns typically work on, or what professional development opportunities are available.

Relax and Be Yourself:

Remember, the interview is a conversation, so try to stay calm and be yourself. The interviewer wants to get to know you, so don't be too mechanical in your responses. Build a rapport with the interviewer, and don't be intimidated by their position or experience.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful law internship interview. Good luck!

What to expect from a law internship

Law interns are individuals who work for a law firm or another legal employer for a fixed period. They may be paid or unpaid, depending on the employer and the nature of the work. As an intern, you will be an important part of the law firm's efforts, performing functions that attorneys, paralegals, and legal secretaries carry out daily.

The tasks you undertake will depend on the size and nature of the firm. For example, at a small firm, you may have a more custom program, whereas a large firm may have more rigid rules. Generally, law interns may perform complex legal research and draft documents under the supervision of an attorney. They may also be involved in preparing and organizing files, ensuring documents are filed with the court, and interacting with clients.

Internships at larger organizations, such as the World Bank, may involve conducting legal assignments, research, and comparative legal analyses on various issues. Interns may also assist in preparing for conferences and meetings and performing ad hoc tasks as requested by supervising lawyers.

The purpose of a law internship is twofold. It benefits the firm by providing an extra pair of hands and a fresh perspective, and it benefits the intern by offering exposure to the legal profession, helping them develop their skills, and allowing them to explore their career options.

How to approach the application process

Understand the role of a law intern

Law interns work for a law firm or legal employer for a fixed period. They may be paid or unpaid, and their work can include a range of tasks, from complex legal research and document drafting to administrative duties like filing and organising files.

Identify the right opportunities

Consider the type of law firm or organisation you want to work for. While TV shows might depict everyone working for a big law firm, the majority of law firms are small. You may have more luck securing an internship with a small firm, as they often have more flexibility and are keen for the extra help.

Tap into your network

Let your friends, family, and social media connections know that you're looking for a law internship. They might know someone who can help or point you in the right direction.

Utilise career resources

Your school's career centre can be a valuable resource. They may have connections with local attorneys or alumni who are attorneys and could be potential internship supervisors.

Prepare your application materials

Ensure your resume is up to date and tailored to the specific internship you're applying for. Some internships may also require additional application materials, such as a statement of interest, academic transcripts, or a short essay.

Be prepared for the interview

If you're invited for an interview, dress to impress. Law firms often have serious dress codes, so it's important to present a professional image. Practice common interview questions and think about what you want to ask the interviewers, as this shows interest and enthusiasm.

Don't be discouraged by rejection

Finding an internship can be competitive, and you may face rejection along the way. Remember that it only takes one yes, so keep trying and stay positive!

What documents to include in your application

When applying for a law internship, it is important to include the right documents with your application. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the organization and role, here is a list of documents that you should typically include when applying for a law internship:

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): This is often the most important part of your application. Your resume should highlight your relevant skills, qualifications, and experiences. Make sure to tailor it to the specific internship you are applying for, emphasizing any legal-related skills or experiences you have.
• Cover Letter: A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other candidates. It should express your interest in the internship and highlight how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the role. Include specific examples of how you can contribute to the organization.
• Academic Transcript(s): Include proof of your current enrolment in a law degree or any other relevant academic program. Your transcript should list the courses you have taken and the grades you have achieved. This demonstrates your academic qualifications and progress.
• Statement of Interest: Some internships may require you to submit a statement of interest, which is an opportunity to express your passion for the field of law and highlight why you are a strong candidate for the internship. This can be a chance to discuss your career goals and how the internship aligns with them.
• Writing Samples: Legal internships often involve a significant amount of writing, so you may be asked to provide writing samples. These could be essays, research papers, or other examples of your writing abilities. Choose samples that showcase your ability to write clearly, concisely, and persuasively.
• References: Including references or letters of recommendation can strengthen your application. Choose referees who can speak to your skills, qualifications, and character. Ideally, select individuals who have supervised you in a legal or professional capacity, such as professors, lawyers, or previous employers.
• Proof of Identification: Depending on the organization and the nature of the internship, you may be required to provide proof of your identity and eligibility to work in the relevant country or region.
• Additional Documentation: In some cases, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of language proficiency or legal work authorization. Always review the specific requirements of the internship program to ensure you are providing all the necessary documents.

Remember to carefully review the application instructions and requirements before submitting your application. Each organization may have slightly different expectations, so tailor your application package accordingly.

Frequently asked questions