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Challenging work. Lots of responsibility. Interesting people. These are some of the phrases that students use to describe their experience as legal interns at the U.S. Department of Justice. The Department of Justice offers approximately 1,800 volunteer internships each year. Approximately 1000 are available during the summer; with the remaining 800 offered during the academic year.
Eligibility for the Volunteer Internships
First-year (second-semester), second-year and third-year law students are eligible to apply at any time. First-year, first-semester law students may apply after December 1 for internships the following summer. The Department follows the National Association of Law Placement guidelines that prohibit employer contact with first-year (first-semester) students regarding summer employment prior to that date. Law students may work in volunteer positions only while attending law school. Law school graduation terminates eligibility, except for graduate law students enrolled at least half time and who are not practicing law. Part-time and joint-degree law students may apply provided they meet eligibility requirements.
How to Apply
The Department publishes detailed information about volunteer opportunities and announces upcoming vacancies for specific offices in late summer (for internships during the academic year) and in December (for summer internships). Each participating office conducts its internship program independently and has its own internal deadlines. Students should apply separately to each office in which they have an interest. Offices typically request a resume and a law school transcript. Application requirements vary and are outlined in the "Qualifications" section of each announcement. Some organizations request a writing sample, a cover letter listing times and dates of availability, and references.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about volunteer internships.
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