High School Law Internships?

Does anyone know of any law-related internships that accept high school students? I'm really interested in pursuing law in the future and want to get a taste of the field before I commit to it.

Absolutely, there are several ways you can get law-related experience as a high school student. It's great that you're interested in exploring the field ahead of time - that type of initiative can impress colleges and future employers.

One way to gain experience is by seeking out local opportunities. You can look into internships or job shadowing programs at local law firms, prosecutor's offices, public defender's offices, or even your local courthouse. Look at your municipal or county court systems or the district attorney's office. These organizations often have opportunities for high school students to assist with paperwork, observe trials, or even help conduct research. Even if they do not advertise internships, it may still be worth reaching out to them - given your keen interest, they might be willing to arrange something on an informal basis. Aim to connect with smaller firms or sole practitioners where you may get more diverse experience.

Another approach is through non-profit organizations that run law-related youth programs. For example, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has a Summer Advocacy Program, which is more of a camp than an internship but still gives high school students an introduction to civil liberties and social justice issues.

Lastly, consider participating in a Mock Trial club or Model United Nations (MUN) at your school, if available. These extracurricular activities can offer valuable insights into aspects of law, public policy, and debate.

Remember that while securing an internship would be fantastic, it is not the only way to demonstrate your interest in law. Engaging in law-related activities, conducting personal research, or even taking relevant elective courses can all demonstrate your passion for this field. Regardless of what you end up doing, keep in mind that demonstrating interest and passion in your future field is the ultimate goal.