Top 19 Law Internships for High School Students in 2025
Internships for high school students are among the best ways for you to explore real-world career paths without spending a fortune. They offer hands-on experience, skill-building, and the chance to connect with professionals—all before college even begins. In fact, many top colleges, law firms, and nonprofits offer structured internships that give you a genuine taste of what it's like to work in your chosen field.
If you’re interested in law, participating in law internships for high school students can give you the chance to understand everything from courtroom dynamics to policy research. In this blog, we’ve done the homework for you and narrowed it down to the 19 best law internships for high school students that you can explore.
Location: Remote
Cost: Starting at $2,490 (financial aid available)
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort; the regular admission deadline for the summer cohort is May 11
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year; the upcoming summer cohort starts on June 2
Eligibility: High school students who can work for 10-20 hours/week
Ladder Internships is a competitive program designed for driven high school students looking to gain experience at fast-growing start-ups. You’ll get the opportunity to intern with companies across a wide range of sectors, including technology, deep tech, artificial intelligence, machine learning, healthcare, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. You can browse all the available internship placements through the application form.
These start-ups are typically high-growth ventures, with many having secured over a million dollars in funding. During the internship, you will collaborate directly with both your start-up managers and a dedicated Ladder Coach on meaningful, real-world projects. At the end of the program, you will present your work to your company. The internship is conducted virtually and usually spans about 8 weeks.
2. Jimerson Birr's School Internships: Business Law
Location: Jimerson Birr office, Jacksonville, FL
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: Not mentioned
Dates: Typically, 4-6 weeks in the summer
Eligibility: High school students who can work at the Jimerson Birr office in Florida
The Jimerson Birr High School Summer Internship Program is one of the top business law internships for high school students that offers insight into the inner workings of a professional law firm. You’ll rotate through departments such as legal services, accounting, marketing, communications, and IT, gaining exposure to real projects that contribute to the firm’s operations.
The program is designed to help you build transferable skills in business administration, communication, and legal processes. With hands-on experience and professional mentorship, this internship is for you if you’re considering a future in law, business, or economics. You’ll leave with a broader understanding of how firms function and stronger skills for any professional path.
3. Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship Program
Location: New York City Bar, New York, NY
Stipend: $16 – $22/hour
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Application Deadline: January 13
Dates: 6-8 weeks, beginning in March
Eligibility: New York City public high school students
The Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship Program (TMSLIP) gives you the chance to explore the legal field by working in a professional law office. Over the summer, you’ll handle administrative tasks, such as organizing documents, managing mail, and answering phones, all of which are essential to the firm’s daily operations. Though you may not work directly with attorneys, you’ll gain firsthand exposure by collaborating with paralegals and legal staff.
The program also includes professional development sessions that introduce you to legal careers and help build skills in communication, organization, and attention to detail. If you're considering a future in law, this internship offers valuable real-world experience.
Location: University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law + Various law firms in Baltimore, MD
Stipend: $15/hour
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: April 5
Dates: June 23 – August 8
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores or juniors attending a Baltimore City Public High School and living in Baltimore City
As a Law Links intern, you’ll be placed in a law firm or legal organization for a full-time, seven-week paid internship. Your responsibilities will include supporting daily office tasks and observing legal professionals at work, giving you valuable exposure to real legal environments.
In parallel, you’ll attend the Law & Leadership Institute—a 50-hour seminar series focused on legal education and career readiness—at the University of Maryland’s law school. The program begins with a thorough orientation and includes weekly professional development. Business attire is provided, ensuring every intern is equipped for the workplace.
5. Dallas Bar Association Summer Law Intern Program
Location: Various law firms in Dallas, Texas
Stipend: $10+/hour
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: April 4
Dates:
Session 1: June 9 – July 3
Session 2: July 7 – August 1
Eligibility: Dallas ISD high school juniors during the current school year with an academic average of 85 or above and no more than 10 absences
The Summer Law Intern Program (SLIP) places Dallas high school students in professional legal environments for 4-8 weeks of paid, part-time, or full-time work. You'll get to choose from a variety of internships for high school students at law firms, corporate departments, or nonprofits, where you will support real legal operations, doing tasks like filing, legal research, or client-related support.
The program starts with a Summer Learning curriculum that introduces you to workplace expectations and professional conduct. You’ll also attend sessions hosted by the Dallas Bar Association that offer broader exposure to the legal field and a formal reception at the end of the internship.
6. Memphis Bar Association Summer Law Internship Program
Location: Various private law firms, corporate law divisions, or governmental agencies in Memphis, Tennessee
Stipend: $500
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: March 28
Dates: June 2 – June 27
Eligibility: Minority rising sophomore, junior, or senior in high school as of August; a resident of or attending a high school in Shelby County, TN
The Memphis Bar Association Summer Law Internship Program gives you a 60-hour summer experience in a legal workplace, including law firms, government offices, or corporate legal departments. Designed for high school students from underrepresented backgrounds, the program lets you assist with legal research, administrative duties, and case preparation. Interns are selected based on interest in law and involvement in school or community.
This opportunity helps you develop skills like organization, professionalism, and communication while offering real exposure to legal careers. At the end of the program, you’ll receive a $500 stipend.
7. The Atlanta Bar Association Summer Law Internship Program for High School Students (SLIP)
Location: Various law firms and organizations in Atlanta, Georgia
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Competitive; highly selective
Application Deadline: February 7 – March 20
Dates: May 28 – July 18
Eligibility: Atlanta area high school students who are juniors and seniors
The Atlanta Bar Association Summer Law Internship Program (SLIP) offers paid, full-time internships for high school students in Atlanta. SLIP provides real exposure to the legal field and includes opportunities to build professional networks. As an intern, you’ll be placed in a law firm or legal organization, gaining experience in administrative tasks, legal research, and mentorship activities. It’s a rigorous program that requires full commitment—students must not have any conflicting summer plans—and has placed over 940 students in internships, with many going on to pursue law in college and beyond.
Location: 7 law schools in New York City
Stipend: Paid (amount unspecified)
Cohort Size: 30 students
Application Deadline: There is no deadline specified
Dates: July first week to August first week
Eligibility: Rising 9th graders from Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens
The Summer Law Institute (SLI) is a five-week summer program for rising ninth graders in New York City interested in law. Hosted at seven NYC law schools, the program introduces you to key criminal law topics like evidence, arraignment, and legal rights. You’ll learn from law students and attorneys, engage in daily interactive lessons, and build public speaking and critical thinking skills. A major highlight is the mock trial, where you’ll present a case before a real judge.
9. Communities in Schools (CIS) Summer Legal Internship Program
Location: Houston-area law firms, corporate legal departments, etc
Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: TBA
Dates: June 10 – August 2 (tentative, based on 2024 program dates)
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors in Houston
The CIS Summer Legal Internship Program offers 8-week paid internships for high school students from Communities In Schools (CIS) of Houston-supported schools. Created in partnership with the Houston Bar Association, this program places you in local law firms, corporate legal departments, or public interest agencies.
As an intern, you’ll develop career and leadership skills while gaining real-world exposure to legal workplaces. You'll assist with meaningful projects and observe professionals in action, giving you a clearer understanding of the legal field.
10. Nashville Bar Association High School Intern Summer Program
Location: Various law firms, government law offices, and corporate legal departments in Metro Nashville
Stipend: Paid ($10-$15/hour) and unpaid internships available
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: March 28
Dates: June 2 – July 18
Eligibility: Seniors and rising seniors
The NBA Summer Intern Program provides diverse high school seniors and rising seniors in Metro Nashville with full-time paid legal internships for high school students. You’ll be placed in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government offices, earning between $10-$15 per hour.
The program begins with an orientation session and includes weekly “Lunch and Learn” discussions with attorneys on topics like law school preparation and legal careers. As an intern, you’ll gain real-world legal experience and develop professional skills while receiving mentorship from experienced legal professionals.
Location: Available in different locations
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: April 5
Dates:
Los Angeles, CA: June 23 – 27
San Diego, CA: June 23 – 27
Washington, D.C.: July 7 – 11
Chicago, IL: July 21 – 25
Seattle, WA: August 11 – 14
Eligibility: High school students
The Summer Legal Institute (SLI) is a five-day immersion program that introduces high school students to the legal field through interactive, skill-building experiences. While working with attorneys from top law firms and companies, you’ll participate in sessions that cover case analysis, debates, and negotiation exercises. This also gives you the chance to develop essential skills like public speaking, critical thinking, writing, and professional etiquette.
Additionally, these sessions provide practical exposure to real-world legal processes. The program helps you build connections with legal professionals, opening doors to mentorship and scholarship opportunities. If you’re considering a future in law, SLI offers a structured and hands-on way to explore the profession and gain useful insight into legal careers.
Location: U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms
Stipend/Cost: Pages are paid an annual salary of $37,238; The cost of living at the program residence is $1,200 per month
Acceptance Rate: Highly selective
Application Deadline: Deadlines for each session vary by office
Dates:
Spring: January 26 – June 6
Summer Session I: June 8 – June 27
Summer Session II: July 8 – August 1
Fall: September 1 – January 23
Eligibility: High school juniors (Semester Page) and rising juniors and rising seniors (Summer Page), ages 16 or 17 on or before the date of appointment
The U.S. Senate Page Program offers internships for high school students where they will get to work directly with the Senate in Washington, D.C. As a Senate Page, you’ll deliver documents, assist during Senate sessions, and support senators during votes and debates. During the school year, you’ll live at the Daniel Webster Senate Page Residence, attend early morning classes, and follow a full work schedule based on the Senate’s hours.
You must be sponsored by a senator to apply. This program emphasizes responsibility, discipline, and professionalism—phones and social media use are restricted. You’ll get to explore D.C. and participate in organized trips, all while gaining firsthand experience in public service and national politics.
13. Judicial Youth Corps Program
Location: Supreme Judicial Court (Boston, Springfield, and Worcester)
Stipend: $15/hour
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline:
Boston: Rolling
Springfield: April 11
Worcester: April 10
Dates:
Boston: July 1 – August 15
Springfield: June 30 – August 8
Worcester: June 30 – August 8
Eligibility: Applicants must be residents of and attend high school in the city they apply to; specific requirements vary by location
If you’re a high school student in Massachusetts interested in the legal field, the Judicial Youth Corps (JYC) Program offers paid summer internships for high school students at courts in Boston, Springfield, or Worcester. Through hands-on activities like mock trials, courtroom shadowing, and legal discussions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the courts operate.
Legal professionals—including judges and clerks—mentor students throughout the program. You’ll also take part in field trips and team-based learning. Selection is based on your application, recommendations, and an interview. The program provides both real-world exposure and valuable professional guidance for future legal careers.
14. Internship Program at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office
Location: Manhattan District Attorney?
Stipend: Paid minimum wage
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: January 13 – March 12
Dates: June 30 – August 1
Eligibility: Current sophomores, juniors, or seniors residing in Manhattan
The Manhattan District Attorney’s High School Internship is a five-week paid program that gives you firsthand exposure to the criminal justice system. You’ll take part in engaging workshops, legal discussions, and a mock trial program that helps you build critical skills like public speaking and argumentation. In addition to courtroom insights, you’ll work in an office setting and develop professional conduct. During these internships for high school students, you will be paid minimum wage and gain valuable mentorship from legal professionals.
15. Saper Law Immersion Program
Location: Saper Law Offices, Chicago, IL
Cost: $875
Cohort Size: Around 40 students per class
Application Deadline: Rolling; May 1
Dates: August 4 – 8
Eligibility: High school students and college students
The Saper Law Immersion Program is a one-week legal boot camp for high school students interested in law. Hosted at Saper Law Offices, the program offers hands-on training in legal writing, negotiations, and mock trials. It emphasizes business, technology, and entertainment law. You’ll visit law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments to see legal professionals in action.
During the program, guest speakers—including attorneys, judges, and in-house counsel—will share insights into legal career paths. The program also includes LSAT practice and personal statement writing. With only 40 students admitted, you’ll learn in a close-knit, interactive setting that provides a well-rounded introduction to the legal field.
16. ACLU National Advocacy Institute
Location: ACLU, Washington, D.C.
Cost: $2,700
Acceptance Rate: Low selectivity
Application Deadline: All applications received after April 14 will be considered on a rolling basis
Dates:
Session 1: July 13 – July 19
Session 2: July 20 – July 26
Session 3: July 27 – August 2
Eligibility: High school students (ages 15-18)
The ACLU National Advocacy Institute is a week-long program in Washington, D.C., designed for high school students passionate about civil liberties and social justice. Each day includes electives on key civil rights issues, homeroom discussions, and keynote talks. You’ll also attend classroom sessions, site visits, and policy discussions led by ACLU lawyers, activists, and experts.
A highlight of the week is the Day of Action, where you’ll participate in real advocacy work like lobbying Congress, attending rallies, or launching writing campaigns. You’ll also join social events and build connections with peers from across the country. No experience is needed to participate.
17. U.S. DOJ Pathways Internships
Location: U.S. Department of Justice
Stipend: Paid and unpaid opportunities available
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: Depends on the internship
Dates: Depends on the internship
Eligibility: Students currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program at an accredited school from high school to postgraduate
The U.S. Department of Justice Pathways Internship Program offers internships for high school students that provide a direct pathway into federal careers. As an intern, you’ll work in federal agencies in paid or unpaid roles, gaining experience in law, administration, and public policy. The program includes mentoring, skill-building, and the potential for conversion into a permanent federal job. This internship is for you if you’re looking to explore government work while still in school. Internships are available nationwide and listed on USAJOBS.gov. If you're committed and looking to start your career in public service, Pathways offers you a place to begin.
18. Wake Forest High School Summer Program: Law Institute
Location: Wake Forest University
Cost: $3,200
Acceptance Rate: Low selectivity
Application Deadline: Rolling basis starting November 1
Dates: June 15 – 20 or July 20 – 25
Eligibility: Current 9th – 12th grade students
The Wake Forest Summer Immersion Law Institute gives high school students an inside look at the legal world. In this week-long program, you’ll explore civil and criminal litigation, family law, government policy, lobbying, and more.
Through hands-on experiences like mock contract negotiations, team case study discussions, and 1L-style law classes, you’ll gain exposure to what it’s like to study and practice law. You’ll also meet with experienced lawyers and law students who’ll share career insights and mentoring. The program doesn’t just teach legal skills—it emphasizes the importance of ethics, resilience, and work-life balance in the legal profession.
19. HRC Foundation’s Youth Ambassador Program
Location: Human Rights Campaign Foundation
Stipend: At least $100 per engagement
Acceptance Rate: Selective
Application Deadline: TBA
Dates: TBA
Eligibility: Students who are 13-21 years old at the time of application, identify as LGBTQ+, and are comfortable publicly sharing their identity
The HRC Foundation’s Youth Ambassador Program empowers LGBTQ+ students to advocate for youth rights and well-being across the U.S. As an ambassador, you’ll attend monthly virtual meetings, share your story through blogs, videos, and public events, and represent HRC’s key programs like Welcoming Schools and Project THRIVE.
Youth Ambassadors receive a stipend of $100 per engagement, and all travel expenses are covered. You’ll also benefit from personalized media and public speaking training and have access to HRC staff as professional references.