Lawyer Internships for High Schoolers?

I'm currently a junior and I'm considering going into law in the future. Are there any opportunities like internships or work experiences related to law that high school students can actually participate in? I'd appreciate any advice!

It's fantastic that you're thinking ahead about your potential career in law! Active engagement in law-related activities during high school can help you build a strong foundation and demonstrate your dedication to the field when applying to colleges. Here are a few options you can explore:

1. Shadowing/Networking: Reach out to local law firms, attorneys or family friends involved in the legal field, and ask if you can shadow them for a day or a few hours per week. While there may not be a formal internship program, many professionals may be open to letting you observe and learn.

2. Volunteer work: Non-profit organizations or legal aid societies often welcome volunteers, regardless of their current level of education. You can perform tasks like data entry, client intake, or research, all of which can give you exposure to different aspects of law.

3. Mock Trial/Debate Teams: Many schools have mock trial or debate teams that enable students to explore legal concepts and improve skills like critical thinking and public speaking. If your school has a team, join it. If not, consider starting one or participating in a local or regional competition.

4. Summer Programs/Camps: Some universities and organizations offer summer programs specifically focused on law or pre-law for high school students. Although many selective programs may have associated costs, some offer scholarships or financial aid. Popular pre-law summer programs include the National Student Leadership Conference’s Law & Advocacy program, the iLaw program at American University, and pre-college programs at schools like Cornell University, etc.

5. Online Courses or Resource Exploration: You can also sign up for free or low-cost online introductory law courses through platforms like Coursera or edX, where you can find offerings from top universities. Additionally, keep an eye out for online lectures, webinars, or podcasts related to law to stay informed and deepen your understanding of the field.

Remember that it's more important to be genuinely involved and passionate about the experiences you pursue, rather than just padding your resume with extracurriculars. Focus on what truly interests you within the legal field and aim to gain as much knowledge and exposure as possible. Good luck!