Law internships are an excellent way to gain valuable insight into the legal profession ahead of entering a career in the field. They offer law students a chance to combine their studies with real world, practical experience and enhance their understanding of the legal sector. Below, we look at what legal internships might involve, where to look for a position and the best way to apply.
By Grant Longstaff. Published 17 July 2024.
What is a legal internship?
A legal internship is a period of work experience offered by a law firm, the in-house legal department of a company, or other organisation. They’re often sought out by law students or recent graduates looking to gain experience, put their learning into practice and strengthen their CV. Legal internship programs tend to be anywhere from a few weeks to a year in length and, at times, you may even be able to fit them around your studies.
What does a legal internship involve?
A legal internship gives you an opportunity to link your academic study with professional practice and can help strengthen your legal knowledge by applying it to actual legal scenarios. It also provides you with an insight into how a law firm or organisation operates on a day to day basis.
Whilst it’s difficult to say with any certainty exactly what kind of work you’ll be asked to do, there are a few skills you’re likely to develop during a legal internship which will enhance your employability.
You could be asked to carry out legal research to support a case, draft legal documents – such as legal briefs – or compose written communication for clients or organisations. You could also be asked to proofread documents, organise case files and assist with the general day to day running of an office or department.
You might also have the chance to sit in on meetings with clients, which can provide an opportunity to see how legal professionals prepare for, and communicate with, clients. Depending on the legal practice area of the firm, you could also be given the opportunity to attend court and sit in on a trial or hearing. Seeing legal proceedings unfold in the real world will again help contextualise your legal learning and allow you to see professional advocacy skills first hand. Remember, simply observing can be an excellent way to develop your own communication skills.
Legal intern opportunities might even offer training in a particular legal area, or assign you a mentor who you can turn to for support. Take all that they offer as a chance to learn and develop your legal skills.
What organisations offer legal internships?
There are plenty of organisations which might offer internships for law students. First of all, you have law firms. You’ll likely find legal intern positions offered everywhere from world renowned firms to high street and independent practices. Alternatively, if you’re considering a career in-house, then looking for an internship with an organisation with a legal department could prove more beneficial to your career.
There are opportunities to be found everywhere. There could be opportunities with charities or even in the public sector through councils and governing bodies. For example, Melissa Petty – one of our graduates – completed an internship in China with the British Council.
It's important to remember that no matter where your legal career is headed, any experience is good experience. Conversely, if you’re unsure about what you might like to do in the future then an internship could help you decide upon, or rule out, a particular kind of work.
What is the best way to apply for a legal internship?
Finding a legal internship can be competitive, however if you’re focused and persistent you can succeed.
You’ll likely find legal internships are often advertised directly by the firm or organisation offering it, and you’ll often apply in the same way you’d apply for any job. When it comes to applying make sure you thoroughly research the company and tailor the application form, CV or cover letter for each submission.
If you’re a current student with us, or have been in the past, our Employability Team can offer help finding legal internships, securing legal internships and supporting your applications with their vast knowledge of the industry as a whole. You can also find more in depth advice on finding an internship from our alumnus and legal recruiter Jonathan Lea.
Finally, it’s always beneficial to start looking for an internship as soon as possible and use any legal connections and resources you have access to. With commitment and perseverance you’ll find a legal internship on which you can build your legal career for the future.
Take a look at our full range of postgraduate law courses and enhance your employability.
