Externships are crucial to legal education. They are helping law students get some hands-on experience, see how real-world legal work unfolds and make connections in the industry before they even graduate. Irrespective of course, whether litigation or corporate law, judiciary or academics internships are an integral part in formation of your career as a lawyer. 

In this blog we uncover when law students should intern, where the best places to apply are and provide tips on how to find the perfect internship.

Why are internships necessary for law students?

Internships help students:

• Apply theory in an applied context

• Learn court processes, research and drafting

• Before you settle on the field of law in which you would like to study, get an exposure to a lot of it.

• Build professional connections

• Enhance resume for Jobs and Higher Studies

When Do Law Students Intern?

For 5-Year LLB Students

• The internships generally start after the first year.

• Nearly all require that students participate in internships during semester breaks.

• One internship is done by the students of each year normally.

• Many of the most successful (career-track) students take on year long internships their senior year.

For 3-Year LLB Students

• Internships often begin as early in the first year

• Continuous internships is suggested because of the shorter duration recommended

• Get as much exposure as you can in the beginning

Where Can Law Students Intern?

• Litigation (Courts & Advocates)

• District Court, High Court, Supreme Court

• Individual advocates and law chambers

• Perfect for the student with an interest in the courtroom

• Law Firms

• large, medium and boutique law firms

• Experience with corporate law, as well as contracts, mergers and compliance

• Corporate Legal Departments

• In-house legal teams of companies

• Concentrate on compliance, contracts and corporate governance

• Judiciary & Government Bodies

• Judicial, tribunal and commission internships

• The ministries, legal aid commissions and public prosecutors

• NGOs & Policy Think Tanks

• Human rights organizations

• Legal research & exposure to social justice

• Academia & Research

• Legal research under professors

• Think tanks and legal publications

How to apply for Law Internship

Prepare a Strong Resume

• Keep it concise and well-structured

• Mention academic background, moots and research(TypeError: mention modi moot in research)

• Mention relevant coursework and skills

Write a Clear Cover Letter

• Personalize it for each organization

• Explain why you are drawn to that area of law

• Keep it professional and precise

Apply Through Multiple Channels

• Websites of a law firm or the court themselves

• Internship portals and LinkedIn

• E-mail applications to advocates and firms

• College placement or internship cells

Follow Up Professionally

• Sending a follow-up email if necessary

• Maintain professionalism in all communication

How to Get an Internship Offers

• Apply early, especially if applying to big name company.

• Develop legal research and writing abilities

• Take part in schools moots (mock trials) and competitions

• Maintain academic consistency

• Network with seniors and professionals

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Sending generic applications

• Applying at the last minute

• Ignoring resume formatting

• Choosing internships without learning goals

Final Thoughts

An internship is not just a requirement, it also gives you the opportunity to explore your potential strengths, develop skill sets and direct your legal career. The sooner, the more unconventional fields and the more strategic you apply, are three ways your professional career can be severely informed.

If you are also looking for: law internships, how to plan the legal career and what are the best law college for it, Career Laksh is there to help. Equipped with the guidance of experts and student-centric support, Career Laksh liberates law students to make Intelligent career choices.

👉 Head over to https://career-laksh.com/ for expert advice and make a sure-footed move towards your career in law.