15 Law Internships for Undergraduates
If you’re a college student exploring the possibility of a legal career, internships are a useful way to gain direct exposure to the field. They allow you to see how legal work is done on a day-to-day basis—whether that involves conducting research, drafting memos, attending court proceedings, or supporting client outreach. Along the way, you’ll build important skills in writing, analysis, and organization.
Online law internships are particularly useful if you need flexibility during the academic year or don’t have access to in-person opportunities nearby. They allow you to work on legal projects, meet with mentors, and gain experience without needing to relocate or commute.
To help narrow your search, we’ve selected 15 online law internships for undergraduates that stand out for their academic rigor, professional relevance, and opportunities to connect with lawyers, researchers, and public policy professionals.
1. Ladder Internships’ University Program
Location: Remote
Program Dates: 8 weeks (Summer and school-year cohorts available)
Application Deadline: August 24 (Fall cohort)
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students and undergraduates
Ladder Internships offers a selective virtual experience where students are matched with global startups and nonprofits in fields like AI, sustainability, journalism, and healthcare. You’ll work on a real-world project directly with your host organization and receive mentorship, along with weekly workshops on workplace skills and tools. By the end of the internship, you would have fully developed, finalized, and presented a project that you defined yourself, marking a significant accomplishment that can be used to be put on resumes or professional school applications. If you want real-world project experience, tangible project output, and a reference letter from the founder or manager, this is the opportunity for you.
2. Manhattan District Attorney's Office College Internship
Location: Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, New York, NY
Cost: Semester interns may receive credit and/or hourly compensation. Summer interns are paid $560/week.
Dates: Summer: 9-week program starting the first Monday in June; Semester: Minimum 12 weeks
Application Deadline: Summer: February 1; Fall: May 1; Spring: November 1
Eligibility: Summer – current sophomores and juniors; Semester – must have. completed one year of college before the internship begins
At the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, you’ll gain an immersive experience in New York City’s criminal justice system. As a college intern, you'll assist Assistant District Attorneys and other staff with case investigations, court preparation, legal research, and even legislative analysis. Assignments vary depending on your background and interests, but may include attending hearings, reviewing evidence, or contributing to outreach programs. The program emphasizes structured activities, like mock appellate arguments, ADA-led lectures, and site visits to specialized units or courts. If you're aiming to explore prosecution, public interest law, or urban legal systems, this internship offers direct engagement with real cases and seasoned professionals.
3. American Civil Liberties Union Internships
Location: Remote or hybrid (varies by position); National Office in New York, NY, or regional offices including Washington, D.C., Durham, NC, and San Francisco, CA
Cost: Paid; stipend offered for full-time 10-week or part-time 12-week internships (may be offset by outside funding)
Dates: 10 weeks (full-time) or 12 weeks (part-time); varies by semester
Application Deadline: Legal Summer 2025 applications open now; Non-Legal Summer 2025 applications open February 2025
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students (non-legal roles) and law students (legal roles); eligibility varies by department and role
Interning at the ACLU offers you the opportunity to contribute to the organization's ongoing work in civil rights and liberties. Whether you're placed in legal, advocacy, communications, or development departments, you'll take on tasks that directly support current cases, campaigns, or outreach strategies. Interns are matched with departments across the national office and sometimes local affiliates, with positions available both remotely and in hybrid formats. Alongside your day-to-day responsibilities, you'll participate in mentorship opportunities and internal trainings to deepen your understanding of the ACLU’s mission and methods. The program is structured to provide both exposure to key legal and policy issues and practical professional experience in a nonprofit setting.
4. American Bar Association Internships
Location: Remote
Cost: Unpaid (students with external funding or seeking academic credit are welcome)
Dates: Fall: August/September–December; Spring: January–April/May; Summer: May/June–August/September
Application Deadline: Fall: July 28; Spring: early December; Summer: mid-March
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students (juniors and seniors preferred) with strong writing and research skills and a demonstrated interest in civil rights and social justice issues
As an undergraduate intern with the ABA’s Civil Rights and Social Justice Section, you’ll explore a wide range of human rights and constitutional issues. Your responsibilities may include policy research, monitoring legislative and legal developments, drafting reports, and writing for the Section's newsletter. You'll also help maintain the Section’s social media presence and may attend events such as congressional hearings or coalition meetings. Depending on your availability and interests, you might develop an independent project aligned with the Section's work. All internships are remote, and the Section encourages applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.
5. Legal Aid Internship
Location: Legal Aid DC, Washington, DC (Hybrid)
Cost: Paid; Summer interns receive a $6,125 scholarship for 10 weeks; Semester interns receive $2,500 for 12 weeks (not eligible if outside funding is received or school prohibits payment)
Dates: Summer: 10 weeks (35 hours/week); Semester: 12 weeks (minimum 12 hours/week)
Application Deadline: Rolling; see employment page for current listings
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students; preference for those interested in public interest work or legal advocacy
Legal Aid DC offers undergraduate students the opportunity to contribute to legal work focused on civil justice. As an intern, you'll typically be placed in the Intake or Development department, where you may assist with client communication, organize legal records, draft correspondence, and observe court proceedings. The program offers direct exposure to legal processes and client interaction, making it a suitable choice if you're exploring public interest law or social justice careers. Interns often join internal meetings and may also take on research or outreach tasks depending on project needs. All positions are hybrid, with both remote and in-person responsibilities based in Washington, D.C.
6. Public Interest Law Center at Harvard Law School
Location: Philadelphia, PA (Remote or In-person)
Cost: Unpaid; students are encouraged to secure outside funding or academic credit
Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer terms (specific dates arranged individually)
Application Deadline: Rolling; applications accepted year-round
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and law students with strong writing, research, and analytical skills; interest in public interest law is essential
Through the Public Interest Law Center’s Amy Ginensky & Andy Rogoff Emerging Advocate Initiative, you’ll contribute to legal projects that focus on civil rights and systemic inequality. You will take on responsibilities across a range of legal areas, including education equity, environmental justice, housing, health care access, and voting rights. Your tasks may involve drafting legal documents, conducting in-depth research, reviewing discovery materials, and assisting in client or witness interviews. If you're interested in community engagement, you may also participate in grassroots legal clinics, outreach events, or collective advocacy efforts. The program offers mentorship, exposure to seasoned attorneys, and optional in-person or remote formats to support a range of student needs.
7. Supreme Court Internship Program
Location: Supreme Court of the United States, Washington, DC
Cost: Paid; amount not specified, academic credit available through home institution
Dates: Fall and Spring: 16 weeks; Summer: 8–12 weeks (not to exceed 90 days)
Application Deadline: Fall: May 15–June 5; Spring: September 15–October 6; Summer: February 15–March 7 (approximate 3-week window each term on USAJobs.gov)
Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens who have completed at least two semesters of undergraduate study; law and graduate students are not eligible
The Supreme Court Internship Program offers a structured opportunity to gain insight into the functions and history of the U.S. Supreme Court. While interns do not work directly with the Justices or on active cases, they are placed in one of several Court offices, such as the Office of the Curator, Clerk, Counselor to the Chief Justice, Public Information, Marshal, or Police Department. Depending on placement, your tasks may include research, correspondence drafting, archival work, public engagement, or administrative support. Interns also benefit from enrichment activities like attending Court sessions and seminars hosted by Supreme Court Fellows. The experience emphasizes professionalism, confidentiality, and strong interpersonal skills.
8. Center for Ethics and the Rule of Law Summer Internship Program
Location: Center for Ethics and the Rule of Law, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: Unpaid; students must seek external funding, though limited stipends are available
Dates: 9-week summer program
Application Deadline: February 15 (tentative); rolling review until filled
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students in philosophy, political science, international relations, or related fields; international students must secure proper work authorization
Hosted at the University of Pennsylvania, the Center for Ethics and the Rule of Law (CERL) Summer Internship offers you the chance to engage deeply with issues at the intersection of national security, democratic governance, and legal ethics. Over nine weeks, you’ll work on collaborative research projects, assist with planning CERL's conferences and public events, and contribute to academic publications or blog posts. Interns are also encouraged to engage with experts through roundtable discussions and briefings. The program is interdisciplinary in nature, drawing on philosophy, law, and public policy, and it places an emphasis on critical thinking and ethical reflection. Students are responsible for obtaining funding, but limited stipends are available for those who qualify.
9. Public Defender Service Criminal Law Internship Program
Location: Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia, Washington, DC
Cost: Unpaid; funding may be available based on budget
Dates: Summer: May–September (varies by session); Fall: August–November; Spring: January–April
Application Deadline: Summer: February 1; Fall: May 31; Spring: November 2
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students; minimum 12-week commitment; summer interns must work full-time (40 hours/week)
The Criminal Law Internship Program (CLIP) at the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia offers an immersive investigative experience for undergraduate and graduate students. As an Investigative Intern, you’ll partner directly with staff attorneys to carry out substantive investigative tasks in real criminal defense cases. Your work may involve interviewing witnesses, visiting crime scenes, serving subpoenas, photographing evidence, and even testifying in court. The internship begins with an intensive training week and includes regular educational sessions, court observation opportunities, and community-based fieldwork. It’s a rigorous program that emphasizes hands-on learning in defense advocacy.
10. The Advocates for Human Rights International Justice Program Internship
Location: Remote (with possible hybrid option)
Cost: Unpaid
Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer, and J-Term (January); each term typically 10–12 weeks
Application Deadline:Fall: August 31 | Spring: November 30 | Summer: March 31
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and graduate students with an interest in human rights; legal or international research experience preferred
The International Justice Program Internship at The Advocates for Human Rights offers you a remote or hybrid opportunity to explore international human rights work. As an intern, you’ll research international law, track country-specific developments, and help compile reports submitted to bodies like the United Nations. You may also assist with preparing training materials, updating organizational content, and supporting human rights monitoring projects. This role emphasizes independent research, international legal standards, and global human rights advocacy. Language skills and experience with non-legal research (such as in political science or international affairs) are valuable in this setting.
10. American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey Civil Liberties Internships
Location: ACLU of New Jersey, Newark, NJ (Remote/hybrid availability not specified)
Cost: Partial stipends offered; students are encouraged to pursue academic credit or outside funding
Dates: Offered year-round; typically 10 hours/week
Application Deadline: Rolling; currently closed, check website for future cycles
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students; strong interest in civil liberties and ability to commit at least 10 hours per week
As a Civil Liberties Intern at the ACLU of New Jersey, you’ll contribute to the organization's mission by supporting intake and complaint resolution efforts. Your tasks will include reviewing and analyzing written complaints, conducting research, identifying relevant laws and community resources, and drafting responses to individuals seeking legal support. You’ll gain experience in issue spotting, constitutional law, and effective communication, all while learning how civil liberties concerns are handled outside of courtroom settings. The program fosters a deeper understanding of racial justice, equity, and systemic reform through hands-on advocacy and client interaction.
11. U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program
Location: Various U.S. Embassies, Consulates, and Department offices worldwide and in Washington, D.C.
Cost: Paid (GS-04, Step 1 pay level); travel expenses covered; housing assistance available
Dates:Summer: May–August/September | Fall: September–December/January | Spring: January–April/May
Application Deadline:Summer: October | Fall: February | Spring: July
Eligibility: U.S. citizens only; minimum 3.2 GPA; open to undergraduate juniors/seniors and graduate students; must be returning to school after the internship; ability to obtain a security clearance required
The U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program provides paid opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students interested in law. You will gain experience in foreign affairs through placements at embassies, consulates, and bureaus in Washington, D.C., and around the world. You’ll work on substantive assignments like drafting reports, assisting with international events, engaging with policymakers, and contributing to communications efforts. While the internship does not count toward federal retirement, it includes GS-04 level pay, assistance with travel expenses, and potential housing support. Interns also gain exposure to diplomacy and policy work that extends beyond typical student roles.
12. Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. Internships
Location: Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C., New York, NY
Cost: Unpaid
Dates: Summer (exact duration not specified)
Application Deadline: Not listed; apply as early as possible
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate and law students; applicants should be organized, motivated, and interested in litigation or personal injury law
Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. offers a hands-on summer internship in its New York City office for undergraduate and law students interested in personal injury law. As an undergraduate intern, you’ll work directly with firm partners to organize case files, prepare trial binders, and conduct case research. You’ll also collaborate with legal assistants to request medical records and follow up with hospitals, doctors, and clients. The internship emphasizes initiative, strong communication, and a willingness to learn through real casework. Interns are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities to observe legal proceedings and gain exposure to litigation in practice.
13. Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia Internship and Summer Associate Program
Location: Office of the Attorney General, Washington, DC
Cost: Unpaid
Dates:Fall: September–December | Spring: January–April | Summer: May–August
Application Deadline:Fall: July 31 | Spring: November 30 | Summer: February 14
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate, graduate, and law students in good academic standing; selection based on academic performance and leadership potential
The Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia (OAG) offers volunteer internships for undergraduate, graduate, and law students seeking practical legal experience in public service. You’ll support attorneys with legal research, draft motions, observe depositions and trials, and assist in a variety of litigation tasks. The program also includes field trips and presentations covering topics like environmental law, juvenile justice, and appellate advocacy. Internships are tailored to individual interests and may be available in multiple divisions such as Civil Litigation, Public Safety, and Legal Counsel.
14. Chapman & Cutler LLP Law Firm Administrative Internship
Location: Chapman & Cutler LLP, Chicago, IL
Cost: Paid (exact amount not listed)
Dates: 8-week summer program
Application Deadline: Applications open in August
Eligibility: Open to current undergraduate students with an interest in law firm administration or legal careers
The Law Firm Administrative Internship (LFAI) at Chapman & Cutler LLP is an 8-week summer program for college students interested in the business side of law. As an intern, you’ll be placed in one of several departments—such as Human Resources, Talent Development, Marketing, or Information Services—where you’ll work on practical assignments that support firm operations. You’ll also receive mentorship and structured training to deepen your understanding of law firm infrastructure and administration. This program is well-suited for students considering careers in legal support, management, or law school preparation.
Image Source - American Bar Association logo