Every summer, motivated high school students seek hands‑on law internships for high school students to explore courtroom life, sharpen research skills, and build a standout résumé. Summer law internships offer a unique window into the world of law, letting you test‑drive careers in litigation, public interest, policy, or corporate practice.
Whether you’re dreaming of arguing a mock trial or drafting policy memos, these programs give you real exposure and guidance from seasoned professionals. In this guide, we’ll explore the best summer law internships of 2025 and share practical advice on finding the right program and acing your application.
How to Choose the Right Internship
1. Location & Format
- In‑Person vs. Virtual: On‑site internships let you tour courthouses, network face‑to‑face, and observe client meetings. Virtual options offer flexibility if you’re balancing summer classes or live far from major legal hubs.
- Local vs. National: A local public defender’s office may welcome enthusiastic volunteers, while national programs at top universities build prestige on your résumé.
2. Program Focus
- Litigation & Moot Court: Perfect if you love debate and public speaking.
- Legal Research & Writing: Ideal for students who enjoy digging into statutes and crafting clear arguments.
- Policy & Advocacy: Focuses on legislative work or nonprofit campaigns.
- Corporate Law Basics: Explores contracts, negotiations, and business ethics.
3. Duration & Time Commitment
- Intensive Tracks: Full‑time, two‑ to four‑week residencies immerse you in a fast‑paced legal environment.
- Modular Schedules: Part‑time or weekend workshops let you gain experience without a full‑summer commitment.
4. Cost & Funding
- Paid Stipends: Some nonprofit and government programs offer modest stipends to cover travel or meals.
- Scholarships & Fee Waivers: University‑sponsored pre‑college programs often provide financial aid or need‑based grants.
Top 8 Summer Law Internships for 2025
Each entry includes an overview, eligibility, key dates, and insider tips.
1. National Youth Law Academy (NYLA)
- Overview: A two‑week virtual mock trial, legal research, and ethics program led by practicing attorneys.
- Eligibility: Rising sophomores to seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Dates: July 6–19, 2025
- Deadline: May 15, 2025
- Insider Tips: Submit a concise writing sample (500 words max) on a current legal issue. Emphasize teamwork in your application.
2. Harvard Pre‑College Law & Legal Studies Program
- Overview: Three‑week residential experience on Harvard’s campus. Attend moot court sessions, small seminars, and lectures.
- Eligibility: Students over the age of 16 who have completed their junior year are eligible.
- Dates: July 13–August 2, 2025
- Deadline: March 31, 2025
- Insider Tips: Showcase passion for law through extracurriculars—model UN, debate club, or volunteer work.
3. Georgetown Law High School Summer Program
- Overview: Four‑week D.C. immersion featuring policy workshops, mock legislation drafting, and moot court at the Capitol.
- Eligibility: Ages 15–18, strong academic record.
- Dates: June 22–July 18, 2025
- Deadline: April 1, 2025
- Insider Tips: Connect your application to Washington, D.C. interests—internships or local civic engagement.
4. Stanford High School Law & Ethics Forum
- Overview: Two‑week on‑campus seminars exploring legal theory, ethics, and technology’s role in justice.
- Eligibility: Rising seniors with a 3.5+ GPA and an essay on a tech‑law topic.
- Dates: July 20–August 3, 2025
- Deadline: May 10, 2025
- Insider Tips: In your essay, pick a recent Supreme Court case or data‑privacy rule to analyze.
5. Public Defender’s Office Shadowing Program
- Overview: Hands‑on courtroom observation, client intake, and case preparation in various cities’ defender offices.
- Eligibility: 16+ years old; some offices require local residency.
- Dates: Varies (June–August 2025)
- Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Insider Tips: Reach out early to the office coordinator; demonstrate reliability and a genuine desire to learn.
6. ACLU High School Advocacy Fellowship
- Overview: Eight‑week virtual training in civil liberties advocacy, campaign strategy, and grassroots organizing.
- Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors committed to social justice.
- Dates: June 1–July 27, 2025
- Deadline: April 15, 2025
- Insider Tips: Highlight any volunteer or club leadership roles that show advocacy skills.
7. Legal Aid Clinic Internship
- Overview: Volunteer placement in civil‑law clinics handling housing, family, or immigration matters.
- Eligibility: 17+ with orientation and background check.
- Dates: June–July 2025 (flexible scheduling)
- Deadline: May 1, 2025
- Insider Tips: Prepare a brief cover letter explaining why you care about legal aid and community service.
8. Corporate Law Summer Immersion
- Overview: Virtual seminars and case‑study workshops led by associates at top law firms.
- Eligibility: Minimum 3.5 GPA and an essay on a business‑law topic.
- Dates: July 1–August 1, 2025
- Deadline: June 1, 2025
- Insider Tips: Use your essay to discuss a landmark corporate merger or ethics challenge in business law.
Application Strategies & Tips
1. Craft a Stand‑Out Cover Letter
Begin with a clear statement of interest: mention the program by name, highlight relevant experiences, and connect goals with what the internship offers.
2. Secure Strong Recommendations
Ask volunteers, coaches, or teachers who are familiar with your character and work ethic. Provide them with your résumé and program details to craft a focused letter.
3. Polish Your Résumé for Legal Roles
Emphasize writing, public speaking, leadership roles, and community service. List measurable achievements (e.g., “Led debate team to state semifinals”).
4. Prepare for Interviews
Research the host organization, practice common legal internship questions, and prepare thoughtful questions of your own.
5. Manage Deadlines & Follow‑Ups
Use a spreadsheet or calendar app to track applications, deadlines, and contact info. Send a brief thank‑you note post‑interview to reinforce your interest.
Making the Most of Your Internship
1. Set Clear Goals
Before day one, decide what you want to learn—courtroom observation, drafting motions, or client interviewing.
2. Network & Seek Mentorship
Introduce yourself to judges, attorneys, and fellow interns. Ask insightful questions and request feedback on your work.
3. Document Your Experience
Keep a daily journal of tasks, key takeaways, and new contacts. This helps when updating your résumé or writing future cover letters.
4. Leverage Your Internship
Afterward, ask for a testimonial or LinkedIn recommendation. Use projects you completed to illustrate skills in future applications.
Conclusion
Summer law internships are a powerful stepping‑stone for high school students pursuing a future in law. They offer practical experience, mentorship, and real‑world insights that can make tackling your next law assignment feel more informed and impactful. Start researching now, tailor each application, and aim to submit materials well before deadlines.
The sooner you apply, the more opportunities you’ll have to pick the program that fits your interests and schedule.
Good luck, and here’s to a summer filled with courtroom insights, meaningful connections, and a deeper understanding of the legal world!
