| Summary |
This article provides law students with a list of the best legal internships for those interested in public interest law. From civil rights to environmental advocacy, each internship offers a unique chance to gain practical experience, develop skills, and contribute to important causes. Learn how to secure these internships and kickstart your career in public service.
| Questions Answered in This Article |
- What are the best legal internships for law students interested in public interest law?
Top internships include the ACLU, Environmental Defense Fund, Legal Aid Society, Public Defender’s Office, Human Rights Watch, and the Sierra Club, offering opportunities in civil rights, environmental law, criminal defense, and human rights.
- How can public interest internships help law students?
These internships provide hands-on legal experience, help students build professional networks, and allow them to work on impactful cases, preparing them for careers in public service and advocacy.
- What skills do law students gain from public interest internships?
Interns gain skills in legal research, case management, client interaction, litigation, policy analysis, and advocacy, all of which are vital for a career in public interest law.
- How can law students secure public interest law internships?
Students can research relevant organizations, attend networking events, volunteer for pro bono work, and leverage their law school’s career services to secure internships.
- Why is it important for law students to pursue public interest internships?
Public interest internships allow students to make a real impact, gain practical experience, and build a strong foundation for a career in advocacy, social justice, and human rights.
Public interest law is a rewarding field that allows law students to make a real difference in the lives of individuals and communities. For law students interested in advocacy, civil rights, environmental protection, and social justice, securing a public interest internship is a great way to gain practical experience while contributing to meaningful causes.
This guide highlights some of the best legal internships for law students pursuing careers in public interest law, offering a range of opportunities to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks, and develop a deep understanding of the issues that impact society. Attorneys considering a transition into healthcare law will benefit from the insights in Healthcare Law Jobs Boom: Why This Specialty Is Exploding in 2025.
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Why Public Interest Law Matters
Public interest law is at the heart of creating a fairer, more just society. Unlike traditional legal fields that often focus on corporate or private sector clients, public interest law advocates for those who are often overlooked or marginalized. Whether it's defending civil rights, protecting the environment, or ensuring access to justice for low-income individuals, public interest law plays a critical role in advancing societal change.
- Serving the Underserved: Public interest lawyers fight for vulnerable populations who may not have the means to hire private legal counsel, such as low-income individuals, refugees, and minorities.
- Promoting Social Justice: Public interest law addresses systemic issues, aiming to reform laws, policies, and practices that negatively impact disadvantaged groups.
- Shaping Policy and Legislation: Many public interest lawyers work to influence public policy and legislation to ensure that laws protect the rights of all citizens, not just the privileged few.
- Advocating for Environmental Protection: Environmental law, a key subset of public interest law, focuses on preserving natural resources, fighting climate change, and protecting public health.
- Fulfilling the Core Values of the Legal Profession: Public interest law embodies the legal profession’s core values of fairness, equality, and access to justice. By practicing in this field, law students and lawyers contribute to the public good and help ensure that legal protections are available to everyone.
Remember: Public interest law is not just a career—it’s a way to make a lasting impact, both in the courtroom and beyond, on the lives of individuals and communities in need.
Top Legal Internships for Public Interest Law Students
For law students passionate about making a difference, public interest law internships offer invaluable hands-on experience that not only build legal skills but also contribute to causes that matter. Whether you're interested in civil rights, environmental justice, criminal defense, or human rights, there are several top internships available that provide exposure to key legal issues and help shape the future of public policy.
Here are some of the best legal internships for law students interested in public interest law, each offering unique opportunities for gaining real-world experience while contributing to the greater good.
1. ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) Internship Program
The ACLU is one of the nation’s most prominent civil rights organizations, advocating for the protection of individual freedoms and civil liberties. Interns at the ACLU work on groundbreaking cases related to racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, free speech, reproductive rights, and more.Why It’s Great:
- Work on high-profile cases involving civil liberties.
- Gain exposure to both litigation and advocacy.
- Interns often have the chance to work alongside experienced civil rights lawyers.
Key Skills Learned:
- Legal research and writing for civil rights cases
- Public policy advocacy and legislative work
- Litigation and courtroom experience
2. Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) Internship Program
The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is dedicated to addressing environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Interns at EDF participate in legal research, regulatory analysis, and policy advocacy aimed at creating sustainable environmental solutions.Why It’s Great:
- Contribute to environmental protection on a global scale.
- Work on legal and policy issues related to climate change, air quality, and renewable energy.
- Exposure to both litigation and environmental policy advocacy.
Key Skills Learned:
- Environmental law and policy analysis
- Regulatory research and legislative advocacy
- Cross-disciplinary teamwork involving scientists and legal experts
3. Legal Aid Society Internship Program
Legal Aid provides free legal services to low-income individuals facing a variety of legal issues, including housing, domestic violence, and immigration. Interns work closely with attorneys on case preparation, client interviews, and legal research, gaining hands-on experience in client advocacy and litigation.Why It’s Great:
- Direct client interaction and courtroom experience.
- Interns gain experience in multiple legal practice areas, including family law, housing, and consumer rights.
- Close mentorship from experienced public interest attorneys.
Key Skills Learned:
- Client interviews and case preparation
- Courtroom advocacy and litigation skills
- Legal writing and document drafting
4. Public Defender’s Office Internship Program
Interning at a public defender’s office is a powerful way to understand the criminal justice system. Public defenders represent clients who cannot afford private attorneys, ensuring that even the most vulnerable individuals receive fair treatment in court. Interns assist with pre-trial motions, investigations, client interviews, and sometimes even participate in trials.Why It’s Great:
- Work directly on criminal defense cases, including trials and hearings.
- Interns gain experience in both legal research and litigation.
- Develop advocacy skills and a deep understanding of criminal law.
- Criminal law and defense strategies
- Trial preparation and court procedures
- Client counseling and negotiation skills
5. Human Rights Watch Internship Program
Human Rights Watch is an international organization dedicated to protecting human rights around the world. Interns at HRW contribute to research and advocacy on issues such as freedom of speech, political asylum, and international humanitarian law. This is an ideal internship for students interested in global human rights work and international law.Why It’s Great:
- Interns engage with global human rights issues and conduct in-depth research.
- Opportunity to contribute to international reports and policy recommendations.
- Network with legal professionals and human rights advocates worldwide.
Key Skills Learned:
- International law and human rights research
- Advocacy and policy development
- Writing for public reports and legal publications
6. The Sierra Club Internship Program
For students interested in environmental justice, the Sierra Club offers internship opportunities that focus on preserving natural resources and advocating for sustainability. Interns assist with legal research, drafting policy proposals, and participating in litigation efforts aimed at protecting the environment.Why It’s Great:
- Contribute to environmental campaigns and litigation.
- Gain experience in public interest environmental law, including policy advocacy and legislative work.
- Interns work with experienced attorneys and environmental experts.
Key Skills Learned:
- Environmental law and litigation
- Legislative and policy advocacy
- Public speaking and environmental justice strategies
How to Secure a Public Interest Law Internship
Securing a public interest internship can be competitive, especially for prestigious organizations that focus on civil rights, environmental law, and social justice. However, with careful planning, a proactive approach, and the right strategies, law students can increase their chances of landing valuable internships in this field. Here are the steps to effectively secure a public interest law internship.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
Public interest law internships often have earlier application deadlines than traditional corporate internships, sometimes as early as fall or winter. Therefore, it’s essential to start researching and applying well in advance.- Research Internship Deadlines: Check the websites of organizations you're interested in for application deadlines. Many public interest internships close months before summer begins.
- Prepare Your Materials: Start working on your resume, cover letter, and writing samples early. Tailor these documents to highlight your interest in public interest law and any relevant volunteer work or prior experiences.
- Gather References Early: Reach out to professors or previous employers who can speak to your work ethic, passion for public service, and commitment to social justice.
Tip: Apply to several internships to increase your chances of securing a position. It’s better to have multiple options than to limit yourself to one.
2. Leverage Your Law School’s Resources
Most law schools offer resources specifically designed to help students find public interest internships. Taking full advantage of these resources can streamline your application process and connect you with organizations that align with your career goals.- Career Services Office: Utilize your law school’s career services office to learn about internship opportunities, both local and national. Many career offices also provide support with resume reviews, cover letter drafting, and mock interviews.
- Public Interest Law Programs: Many law schools have public interest law programs or clinics that offer specialized support and connections with public interest organizations. Engage with these programs to learn about opportunities and internships.
- Alumni Networks: Reach out to alumni working in public interest law to ask about their career paths, seek advice, or inquire about internship opportunities within their organizations.
Tip: Stay proactive by attending networking events, career fairs, and public interest law panels organized by your school to meet representatives from different organizations.
3. Tailor Your Application to the Organization
A strong public interest internship application should demonstrate a clear passion for the mission of the organization and a commitment to public service. Tailor your resume, cover letter, and other application materials to show that you understand the organization’s goals and align with its values.- Highlight Relevant Experiences: Even if you haven’t had direct public interest law experience, emphasize transferable skills such as pro bono work, volunteering, or leadership roles in social justice organizations.
- Show Commitment to Public Interest Law: In your cover letter, explain why you are passionate about public interest law and how the internship aligns with your long-term career goals. Be specific about how your skills can contribute to the organization’s mission.
- Research the Organization: Take the time to learn about the organization's recent projects, cases, and advocacy work. Show in your application that you understand the type of work they do and how you can contribute to their efforts.
Tip: A personalized and thoughtful application stands out. Generic cover letters or resumes are less likely to catch the attention of busy hiring managers in public interest organizations.
4. Network and Attend Public Interest Events
Networking plays a significant role in securing public interest law internships. Attending events where you can meet professionals working in the field will help you gain insights into the industry, connect with potential mentors, and learn about internship opportunities.- Public Interest Career Fairs: Many law schools host career fairs dedicated to public interest law, where students can meet representatives from legal aid organizations, public defender offices, and advocacy groups. These events are great for both networking and applying for internships.
- Conferences and Workshops: Attend conferences, seminars, or workshops related to public interest law, such as civil rights or environmental law conferences. These gatherings are excellent for meeting like-minded professionals and gaining insights into new developments in the field.
- Bar Associations and Professional Groups: Join local or national bar associations that focus on public interest law, such as the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Public Interest Section. These organizations often offer resources and networking opportunities for students.
Tip: Building relationships with people in the field can lead to internships, job opportunities, and valuable mentorships that help you throughout your career.
5. Utilize Online Resources and Job Boards
Many public interest organizations post internships on specialized job boards and websites dedicated to social justice, environmental law, and public service. Make sure you’re checking these resources regularly to find new opportunities.- Idealist: A widely used job board for nonprofit and public interest sector opportunities, Idealist lists internships, fellowships, and full-time positions.
- PSLawNet: Managed by the NALP Foundation, PSLawNet is a comprehensive resource for law students seeking public interest jobs and internships.
- Pro Bono and Legal Aid Websites: Many legal aid societies and pro bono organizations have dedicated internship pages for law students. Be sure to check the websites of organizations you’re interested in.
Tip: Set up job alerts on websites like Idealist and PSLawNet to receive notifications for new opportunities that match your interests.
6. Prepare for Public Interest Interviews
Public interest internships often involve interviews where you’ll be asked about your passion for social justice, your understanding of the organization’s work, and your commitment to public service. Preparation is key to making a strong impression.- Be Ready to Discuss Your Motivation: Expect questions about why you want to pursue public interest law and how the internship fits with your goals. Be prepared to share examples of experiences where you demonstrated a commitment to social change.
- Demonstrate Knowledge of the Organization: Research the organization thoroughly and be prepared to discuss its key projects, litigation, or advocacy efforts. Showing that you understand the organization’s work will set you apart from other candidates.
- Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Like any other legal job interview, public interest internships may involve behavioral questions that assess your problem-solving and teamwork skills. Practice answers to common questions and be prepared to discuss how you’ve handled challenging situations.
Tip: Confidence and enthusiasm go a long way in public interest law interviews—demonstrate your passion for the work and your readiness to contribute to meaningful causes.
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Final Thoughts
Public interest internships are an excellent way for law students to gain meaningful experience while making a difference in society. Whether you are interested in civil rights, environmental advocacy, or criminal defense, there are countless opportunities to contribute to important causes and gain hands-on legal experience. Start early, stay focused, and leverage every opportunity to enhance your resume and expand your network. To make your public-interest internship applications stand out, use these legal internship application templates that get results designed to highlight advocacy-driven experience.
