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I remember the first time I heard about high school internships in law. It felt surprising why would someone so young dive into such a serious field? But then I realized, these opportunities are less about becoming a lawyer overnight and more about career exploration in law. We learn how the legal system works, gain exposure to professionals, and even discover whether law is truly our calling.
They offer more than experience. These internships also support college admissions strategies, help us build strong resumes, and give us stories to tell in interviews. That’s why many ambitious high school students are now searching for these unique openings.
Why High School Internships Matter
We often think internships are just for college students, but that’s not the case. High school internships let us test-drive careers early.
- We build confidence by working in real legal environments.
- We learn workplace habits like communication, punctuality, and professionalism.
- We practice networking tips for teenagers, gaining mentors who guide us beyond high school.
- We prepare for future opportunities, as 70% of students admitted to a US News Top 50 university have already completed at least one internship.
These experiences don’t just look good on a resume; they show initiative, maturity, and a readiness for bigger challenges ahead.
Eligibility & Application Criteria
Not every program is open to all students, and eligibility often depends on age, grade, or residency. We need to check carefully before applying.
- Many programs target juniors or seniors in high school.
- Some require a minimum GPA or academic performance.
- Others are location-based, asking us to live or study within certain cities or districts.
Brooklyn DA’s Office
We see that this program welcomes juniors and seniors who live or attend school in Brooklyn. Interns may help in trials, research, or even specialized units like Homicide or Domestic Violence.
Dallas Bar SLIP
They open doors for Dallas Independent School District juniors. With a required average of 85 or higher and less than 10 absences, this program shows how academic consistency matters. Each session lasts four weeks, and there are two sessions each summer.
Sotomayor Judicial Internship Program
This program is for rising 12th graders in New York City. We might sit in chambers with judges, research cases, and watch courtroom activities. It’s competitive, with deadlines usually in February.
NSLC Law & Advocacy
Students from across the U.S. can attend this nine-day program. While it comes at a cost, scholarships worth more than $500,000 are awarded yearly, making it accessible to more students.
Costs & Paid Opportunities
We know not all internships are free or paid. Some come with stipends, while others charge fees like summer courses. Here’s a snapshot:
- Paid Opportunities
- ACLU Summer Internship: $15/hour
- Baltimore Law Links: $15/hour (50-hour seminar included)
- Thurgood Marshall SLIP: $15–21/hour
- Manhattan DA Internship: $175 weekly stipend
- Unpaid or Volunteer
- Eastern District of NY (USAO) internships are volunteer positions.
- Fee-Based Programs
- NSLC Law & Advocacy: $4,195–$4,395 depending on campus
- Fordham Law Internship: $3,665 residential, $2,715 commuter
- Wake Forest Summer Immersion: $3,200
We should weigh the cost against the long-term benefits. Paid internships for students may be limited, but even unpaid ones can offer priceless experience and connections.
Application Deadlines (2025)
Deadlines are one of the biggest hurdles. We must plan ahead, since many close early in the year.
- Dallas Bar SLIP: April 4, 2025 (Sessions: June 9–July 3, July 7–Aug 1)
- Sotomayor Judicial Internship: February 7, 2025
- Thurgood Marshall SLIP: January 31, 2025
- Manhattan DA: March 12, 2025
- Nashville Bar Association: March 28, 2025
- Fordham Law Internship: December 1, 2024
- Temple of Understanding Internship: February 20, 2025
These programs often fill fast. We need to track dates and submit applications early.
Tips for a Strong Application
We sometimes underestimate how much effort a great application requires. Here’s what makes one stand out:
- High School Resume Tips: Keep it to one page. Highlight leadership, school clubs, and volunteer work.
- How to Write a Cover Letter: Personalize it. Share why law interests you, and mention specific program values.
- Networking Tips for Teenagers: Attend events, ask teachers for references, and connect with past interns.
- College Admissions Strategies: Frame your internship as part of a bigger story. Show how it links to your long-term goals.
A competitive program might see hundreds of applicants. A well-prepared resume and cover letter can push us into the shortlist.
Final Thoughts
We may think internships are only for older students, but law internships for high school students are growing each year. They offer early exposure, skill-building, and sometimes even pay.
By planning ahead, meeting deadlines, and applying with strong materials, we position ourselves for success. Whether through programs like the Dallas Bar SLIP, the Sotomayor Judicial Internship, or NSLC Law & Advocacy, the opportunities are there we just need the courage to take them.
FAQs
Can high schoolers really intern at law firms or government offices?
Yes. Many programs welcome juniors and seniors, offering structured experiences.
Are these internships competitive?
They can be. For example, New York programs often have acceptance rates of 20% or less.
Do I need prior legal knowledge?
No. Most programs provide training. What matters is curiosity and effort.
Are there free programs?
Yes. NYU’s High School Law Institute is free, as are some volunteer government internships.
How long do internships last?
They range from one week to eight weeks. Most run during summer.
Do paid internships exist for high schoolers?
Yes. Options like the ACLU, Baltimore Law Links, and Thurgood Marshall SLIP pay students hourly.
Will this help with college?
Absolutely. It strengthens resumes, supports college admissions strategies, and shows initiative.
References
- ACLU National Advocacy Institute. (2024). High School Summer Internship Program. Retrieved from https://www.aclu.org
- Atlanta Bar Association. (2024). Summer Law Internship Program (SLIP). Retrieved from https://atlantabar.org
- Baltimore Bar Foundation. (2024). Law Links High School Internship. Retrieved from https://baltimorebar.org
- Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office. (2024). High School Internship Program. Retrieved from https://brooklynda.org
- Dallas Bar Association. (2024). Summer Law Internship Program (SLIP). Retrieved from https://dallasbar.org
- Fordham Law School. (2024). Summer Pre-College Program. Retrieved from https://www.fordham.edu
- Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. (2024). High School Internship Program. Retrieved from https://www.manhattanda.org
- National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC). (2024). Law & Advocacy Program. Retrieved from https://www.nslcleaders.org
- New York University. (2024). High School Law Institute (HSLI). Retrieved from https://www.nyu.edu
- Sotomayor Judicial Internship Program. (2024). High School Internship Application Information. Retrieved from https://www.sotomayorprogram.org
- Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship Program. (2024). Opportunities for NYC High School Students. Retrieved from https://www.nycbar.org
- U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of New York. (2024). Student Internship Opportunities. Retrieved from [https://www.justice.gov/usao-edny
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Internship details, costs, and deadlines may change. Students should verify all requirements directly with official program sources before applying.
About the Author:
Liam Everett is an education and career pathways advisor specializing in youth development. With years of guiding students toward internships and college admissions strategies, he shares practical insights to help teenagers explore careers in law early.
