Law Internships for High School Students (2026)
Law internships for high school students are one of the most effective ways to explore a legal career before committing to a pre-law major or law school. These positions place students in law firms, prosecutors' offices, public defenders' offices, courthouses, legal aid organizations, and corporate legal departments — exposing them to how the legal system actually operates versus what's portrayed in television. High school law interns typically assist with legal research, organizing case files, observing court proceedings, and drafting basic summaries of case documents. Positions range from informal arrangements at local law firms to competitive citywide programs like the Practicing Attorneys for Law Students (PALS) program in New York. Gaining legal exposure in high school is particularly valuable for students considering political science, criminal justice, business law, or pre-law tracks.
Age Requirements & Eligibility
Most law internships for high school students accept students 16 and older due to the professional environment and exposure to sensitive legal matters. Some courthouse observation programs accept students 15+. Students at law offices are not permitted to provide legal advice or represent clients — these positions are strictly observational and research-focused. Work permits are required for paid positions in most states.
Top Programs
Practicing Attorneys for Law Students (PALS) — New York
A structured program pairing NYC-area high school students with practicing attorneys. Students attend courtroom observations, client consultations (with permission), and legal workshops. One of the most recognized high school legal programs in the country.
Local Courthouse Internship Programs
Many county courthouses and district courts offer observation and administrative internship programs for high school students. Contact your local clerk of court or judges' chambers directly — these programs are rarely advertised online.
Nonprofit Legal Aid Organizations
Organizations like Legal Aid Society, ACLU chapters, and local legal aid offices offer volunteer and intern positions for high schoolers. Work involves intake assistance, case file organization, and community outreach. Excellent for students interested in public interest law.
Small Law Firm Direct Outreach
General practice, family law, real estate, and criminal defense firms often accept high school interns through direct outreach. Send a professional email or letter to local attorneys explaining your interest. Smaller firms are far more flexible than BigLaw.
Mock Trial and Law Magnet Programs
Many high schools with law magnet or mock trial programs have established partnerships with local bar associations and law firms. Ask your advisor about extern arrangements where you can observe real hearings or assist with legal research.
State Legislature and Government Law Offices
State attorney general offices, legislative counsel offices, and governor's legal staff occasionally accept high school intern-observers. These positions provide exposure to how law is created and enforced at the governmental level.
Application Tips
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Research local law firms in your specialty area of interest (criminal law, family law, corporate law) and email attorneys directly with a professional message and a simple resume.
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Emphasize writing ability — legal work is documentation-heavy. Share any essays, research papers, or debate materials as writing samples.
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Dress professionally for interviews and the internship itself. Legal environments expect formal business attire even for interns.
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Join your school's mock trial or debate team if you haven't — these activities are highly valued by legal employers and provide excellent experience.
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Be prepared to sign a confidentiality agreement. Law firms deal with privileged information and will require discretion from all staff, including interns.
A Note for Parents
Law internships for minors in attorney offices may expose students to sensitive case information, crime scene details, or emotionally difficult situations. Discuss with your student the nature of the work beforehand. For courthouse placements, students may observe criminal hearings or family court proceedings — these can be impactful experiences. Paid legal internships for minors require work permits and must comply with state youth employment laws.
Get Started
Submit your interest and a PropelGrad advisor will help you find the right internship program for your age, interests, and goals.