How to Become a Legal Intern

Real-world experience isn't always easy to come by when you're in law school. The best way to learn the ropes is to be a legal intern. The responsibilities of an intern usually include assisting lawyers with their work, researching cases and tackling current legal issues. Being a legal intern is also an essential step in finding a career as a lawyer. Follow these steps to find a position.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Resume and Cover Letter

1. Decide if an internship is right for you. Some law schools require students to have an internship as part of their curriculum. If you're not in law school it might be more difficult to find a law internship many law firms require you to be in school before they consider your application.

2. Write a resume and cover letter. Have a friend or professor proofread it. Word processing software has resume templates available to use if you need help with formatting the document. Include information about your experiences that relate to the type of law you're interested in practicing.

3. Find an available legal internship. Ask your college's career services department, school advisor or school's alumni office. Another option is to contact the United States Department of Justice. They have 1,800 internships available throughout the school year and summer. Call or visit local law firms and ask if they offer internships. There are also internship websites that specialize in locating internship opportunities around the country. If you find an internship, ask about its application requirements.

4. Apply for the internship. Fill out the entire application and send any other requested paperwork. Many deadlines for summer internship applications are in December. Know when the deadlines are and submit your application at least two weeks before the deadline. Some law firms also require you to attend an interview. Be on time, appropriately dressed and prepared with questions for the law firm.

5. Contact the law firms you applied at. Make a follow-up phone call a few days after you apply. Send a thank you note to the interviewer after your interview. Call again after you send the note. Be persistent but not annoying in your pursuit to become a legal intern. Let the law firms know that you are interested.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply for multiple internships. If you have a family attorney, ask him or her for guidance and references.

• Most interns are not paid. Be aware of your bills, expenses and financial needs when applying.