25 Law Internships and Programs for High Schoolers

May 12, 2025 :: Admissionado

Think You Need a Law Degree to Start Your Legal Journey? Think Again.

We get it. Law feels like this far-off thing, right? A mountain reserved for the gavel-wielders and briefcase carriers who’ve endured three years of torturous law school, passed the bar, and finally earned the right to binge-watch Suits without feeling like a poser. But here’s a little secret: you don’t need a law degree—or even a college ID—to dip your toes into the legal waters.

Here’s the thing. Law isn’t just about dramatic courtroom showdowns (although, those are cool). It’s about critical thinking. Advocacy. Problem-solving. It’s about standing up for something—whether that’s human rights, corporate compliance, or making sure your favorite band doesn’t get swindled out of royalties. And those skills? They’re not reserved for the overachievers or the future Supreme Court justices. They’re for anyone curious enough to ask, “How does this system work?”

Exploring law internships and programs in high school isn’t about padding your resume with the “right” kind of experiences (although, let’s be honest, that part doesn’t hurt). It’s about finding out if you like this world. If the gears of justice turning behind the scenes fascinate you. If reading a contract makes you itch to grab a red pen and suggest edits.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up 25 law-related internships and programs designed specifically for high school students like you. Yep, they exist. And they’re cooler than you think. The courtroom? It isn’t as far away as it seems.

The Legal Lowdown: Understanding Internships vs. Programs

Before we dive headfirst into the 25 coolest law gigs for high schoolers, let’s clear up some terminology. Because not all legal experiences are created equal, and picking the wrong one? That’s like showing up to a black-tie gala in flip-flops. Know the vibe before you RSVP.

Internships: The Real-Deal, Hands-on Stuff

Think: backstage pass to the legal world. Internships usually mean you’re shadowing actual professionals—attorneys, paralegals, judges, legal aid teams—as they navigate the trenches. You might assist with research, organize files, sit in on depositions, or even help prep for a case. The key? You’re in the mix. You’re getting your hands dirty (legally speaking). This is for the student who wants to feel the pulse of the law in action.

But—and this is important—don’t expect to be handing over closing arguments on day one. You’ll be doing the grunt work, but guess what? That’s where the good stuff is. You’ll absorb how the system actually works, not just how it’s portrayed on TV.

Programs: The Simulations, Workshops, and Brain Gains

Now, programs are a bit different. Think of these as legal bootcamps. They’re structured, often with a classroom vibe, packed with lectures, case study simulations, mock trials, and guest speakers. They might not have you in the courtroom, but they’ll teach you how to argue like you’re already there. These programs build your legal muscles in a controlled environment.

If internships are the ocean, programs are the wave pool. Still intense, still valuable, but with a little more safety net.

Why This Matters

Knowing the difference helps you play matchmaker between your goals and the opportunity. Want to see if courtroom life is your jam? Intern. Curious if you even like legal theory? Program. Either way, colleges love to see that you’ve explored your interests beyond the classroom. It tells them you’re not just daydreaming about law—you’re testing the waters.

Pro Tip: You don’t need to pick just one lane. Start with a program to build confidence, then jump into an internship to get your hands dirty. Or flip it. Either way, you’ll come out smarter, savvier, and one step ahead of the game.

Top 25 Law Opportunities for High School Students

Alright, now for the good stuff—the who’s who of high school law experiences. We’ve combed through the legal landscape to bring you internships and programs that aren’t just resume fluff—they’re real-deal opportunities to test-drive your interest in law.

Whether you’re itching to shadow a prosecutor, argue your case in a mock trial, or deep-dive into constitutional law with Ivy League professors, there’s something here for every flavor of future legal eagle. We’ve split them up by category to make your life easier—government gigs, university powerhouses, nonprofit crusaders, and more. So roll up your sleeves. It’s time to find your legal launchpad.

Government & Public Sector Internships

1. Department of Justice’s Summer Law Intern Program (SLIP)

Duration: 8–10 weeks (summer)
Location: Various DOJ offices nationwide (including Washington, D.C.)
Application Deadline: Typically late September to early October (the year prior)
Age Requirements: Must be enrolled in a J.D. program

Okay, here’s the deal—SLIP is the crown jewel of DOJ internships, but it’s geared for law students already in the thick of their J.D. grind. For high schoolers? This one’s a future goalpost. But don’t click away just yet! The Department of Justice does offer occasional high school volunteer and internship opportunities through local U.S. Attorney’s Offices. They’re not as widely advertised, so you’ll need to dig and hustle—reach out directly to offices in your area to inquire about openings.

2. ACLU National Advocacy Institute (High School Program)

Duration: 1 week (summer)
Location: Washington, D.C. or virtual options available
Application Deadline: Early spring (usually March)
Age Requirements: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors

If the idea of fighting for civil liberties gets your heart pumping, this is your jam. Picture yourself workshopping policy initiatives, networking with top-tier ACLU lawyers, and getting a crash course in advocacy. It’s one part policy bootcamp, one part rallying cry for justice. Whether you’re fired up about voting rights, immigration, or privacy issues, this is your chance to get in the trenches with the pros.

3. State Attorney General’s Office Internships

Duration: Varies (usually summer or semester-long)
Location: Your home state’s Attorney General’s Office (major cities or state capitals)
Application Deadline: Typically early spring (varies by state)
Age Requirements: Most require applicants to be at least 16

Ever wonder who’s keeping corporate giants, shady scammers, and rogue public officials in check? Enter the Attorney General’s Office. These internships are a front-row seat to state-level legal action—consumer protection, environmental law, criminal justice reform, you name it. You might assist with legal research, draft memos, or help with community outreach. Bonus: it’s a killer way to show colleges you’ve got civic chops.

4. Local District Attorney’s Office Programs

Duration: Varies (summer or part-time during the school year)
Location: Your county’s DA office (local courthouses)
Application Deadline: Typically late winter to early spring
Age Requirements: Usually 16+, sometimes 17+

Ready to see the prosecutorial side of the legal system up close? Local DA internships let you shadow attorneys, observe trials, and maybe even help prep cases. You’ll witness justice being served (or debated) in real time—no Netflix drama required. If you’re curious about criminal law or the courtroom dynamic, this experience puts you smack dab in the middle of it. And yes, you will get to flex your note-taking superpowers in court.

University-Affiliated Pre-Law Programs

5. Wake Forest University Summer Immersion Program – Law & Advocacy

Duration: 1 week (summer)
Location: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions (typically closes in early May)
Age Requirements: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors

This isn’t just debate club with a fancier backdrop—Wake Forest’s Law & Advocacy track throws you into real-world legal scenarios. Picture yourself crafting persuasive arguments, mastering public speaking, and stepping into the shoes of an advocate. You’ll explore legal ethics, courtroom strategy, and policy debate—all on a college campus, getting that preview of dorm life. It’s a confidence booster disguised as a legal bootcamp.

6. Georgetown University’s Pre-Law Institute

Duration: 1-3 weeks (summer)
Location: Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.
Application Deadline: Late March
Age Requirements: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors

If Washington, D.C. feels like the epicenter of law and policy, this program puts you right in the heart of it. Georgetown’s Pre-Law Institute offers a deep dive into legal concepts, human rights, and the ins and outs of litigation. Expect mock trials, guest lectures from legal heavyweights, and networking opportunities that could rival LinkedIn connections your parents wish they had. Bonus points for walking the same halls as future senators and judges.

7. Columbia University’s Summer Program in American Law

Duration: 2 weeks (summer)
Location: Columbia University, New York City
Application Deadline: Early April
Age Requirements: High school students ages 15–18

Welcome to constitutional law meets Ivy League rigor. At Columbia’s Summer Program in American Law, you’ll explore landmark cases, polish your legal writing, and discuss civil rights with professors who literally wrote the book on it. Plus, it’s in NYC, so you’re balancing case studies with city strolls through Central Park. Perfect for the student who wants to flex their brain and their metro card.

8. UCLA Mock Trial Summer Institute

Duration: 1 week (summer)
Location: UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
Application Deadline: Early May
Age Requirements: High school students entering grades 10–12

Channel your inner Harvey Specter (minus the expensive suits) at UCLA’s Mock Trial Summer Institute. You’ll train with one of the top collegiate mock trial teams in the country, learning how to build cases, cross-examine witnesses, and present like a pro. This is for students who want to own the courtroom, even if it’s simulated. Plus, it’s LA, so there’s always a chance for a celeb sighting between trial prep sessions.

9. Cornell University Prelaw Summer Program

Duration: 3 weeks (summer)
Location: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY (with some virtual options)
Application Deadline: Early May
Age Requirements: Rising juniors and seniors

Welcome to Ivy League law bootcamp. Cornell’s Prelaw Summer Program is designed to give you a taste of what law school is really like—case law analysis, Socratic method debates, and legal writing workshops. You’ll walk away with a strong foundation in legal reasoning and a head start on what to expect in undergrad pre-law tracks (and beyond). Bonus: the campus is gorgeous, so in between tackling Supreme Court cases, you can enjoy sunsets over Cayuga Lake.

Nonprofit and Advocacy Group Opportunities

10. Human Rights Watch Internships (Student Volunteer Program)

Duration: Varies (typically summer or semester-long)
Location: Various global offices or remote
Application Deadline: Rolling, but early spring for summer positions
Age Requirements: Usually 18+ (though some research assistant roles may consider younger students with exceptional qualifications)

Okay, so Human Rights Watch is kind of a big deal. They’re on the frontlines of global justice—think war crimes investigations, refugee rights, and combating discrimination. While most of their internships cater to older students, occasionally, they open doors to highly motivated high schoolers through volunteer programs or special projects. If you’re passionate about human rights and not afraid to dig deep into research, this is a chance to support work that changes lives. (Warning: once you get involved in this space, there’s no going back.)

11. Street Law Legal Diversity Pipeline Program

Duration: Varies (semester-long engagements or special events)
Location: Partner law firms and schools across the U.S.
Application Deadline: Varies by location (often late winter or early spring)
Age Requirements: High school students from underrepresented backgrounds in law

Street Law is here to level the playing field. This program connects high school students with big-name law firms, where you’ll learn about legal careers, build skills, and get a taste of life in the legal profession. But it’s not just about exposure—it’s about empowering students who may not have lawyers in the family or access to legal networks. You’ll leave this program not only knowing your way around a legal brief but with mentors who have your back.

12. YMCA Youth and Government Program

Duration: Year-round (culminates in state conferences)
Location: Local YMCAs across the U.S. with trips to state capitals
Application Deadline: Varies by state and YMCA chapter
Age Requirements: Typically grades 9–12

Ever dreamed of running the government (or at least simulating it)? YMCA’s Youth and Government program hands you the reins. You’ll draft bills, debate policies, and even argue cases in mock courts. It’s a full-throttle dive into how legislation, lobbying, and judiciary systems work, all while building leadership chops. Plus, the chance to spend a weekend in your state capital debating bills like a boss? That’s priceless.

13. Marshall-Brennan Constitutional Literacy Project (High School Chapter Competitions)

Duration: Semester-long engagement with moot court competition
Location: Various law school partnerships nationwide
Application Deadline: Varies by location (often late summer or early fall)
Age Requirements: High school juniors and seniors

Here’s your chance to flip the script—instead of being taught, you’re the one doing the teaching. With the Marshall-Brennan Project, law students mentor high schoolers (that’s you!) to teach constitutional principles to your peers and compete in moot court tournaments. You’ll learn how the law applies to real-life issues—like free speech and search and seizure—and sharpen your public speaking and critical thinking skills along the way. It’s not just a program; it’s a movement for legal literacy.

Law Firm Shadowing and Internships

14. Local Law Firm Internships

Duration: Varies (summer or part-time during the school year)
Location: Law firms in your area (big cities to small towns)
Application Deadline: Rolling (but reach out early—think winter for summer gigs)
Age Requirements: Typically 16+, depending on firm policies

This is where the magic happens—real lawyers, real clients, real cases. Local law firm internships let you shadow attorneys, sit in on client meetings, assist with case prep, and even observe court proceedings. You’ll see firsthand how legal strategy unfolds and maybe even get a taste of that late-night memo grind. Pro tip: don’t wait for these opportunities to come to you. Send out those cold emails and make the case for yourself—lawyers love a good pitch.

15. Volunteer Positions in Legal Aid Societies

Duration: Varies (semester-long or summer)
Location: Legal aid offices nationwide (focused on underserved communities)
Application Deadline: Typically early spring for summer, varies for other terms
Age Requirements: Often 16+, but some roles are flexible

Want to combine legal exposure with serious do-gooder vibes? Volunteering with legal aid societies lets you support underserved communities—think housing disputes, immigration cases, domestic violence advocacy—while learning the ropes of legal work. You might assist with client intake, organize case files, or help prep materials for hearings. It’s the kind of work that reminds you why the law matters.

16. Pro Bono Project Participation

Duration: Varies (short-term projects to ongoing initiatives)
Location: Law firms, nonprofits, or legal clinics across the U.S.
Application Deadline: Varies by project and organization
Age Requirements: Typically 16+, depending on the project

Pro bono work is where law meets purpose—offering legal services free of charge to those who need it most. Some firms and nonprofits run special pro bono projects that welcome high school volunteers for research, outreach, or administrative support. It’s a chance to contribute to meaningful cases—whether it’s immigration assistance, civil rights advocacy, or tenant protections—while seeing the real-world impact of legal work.

17. Legal Research Assistant Roles (High School Edition)

Duration: Varies (project-based or semester-long)
Location: Remote or in-person at local law firms or legal clinics
Application Deadline: Rolling (often arranged independently)
Age Requirements: Typically juniors and seniors (but younger students with mad research skills can make a case)

Yes, you can be a legal research assistant in high school. While you won’t be writing Supreme Court briefs just yet, you can assist with compiling case law, reviewing legal articles, or drafting summaries for attorneys. If you’ve got strong research chops and an eye for detail (think: obsessed with footnotes and citations), this is your chance to contribute to the behind-the-scenes work that keeps cases moving. Plus, it’s a killer way to flex your analytical muscles.

Specialized Legal Programs

18. National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) on Law & CSI

Duration: 6–10 days (summer)
Location: Various U.S. cities (including Washington, D.C.)
Application Deadline: Rolling (apply early spring for best availability)
Age Requirements: Grades 9–12

For the future lawyer who secretly binges crime shows—this one’s for you. NYLF on Law & CSI blends legal strategy with forensic science, giving you a taste of both the courtroom and the crime lab. Think mock trials, crime scene investigations, and field trips to top legal institutions. It’s the ultimate combo platter for students fascinated by both the legal system and the science behind solving cases.

19. John Jay College Pre-Law Boot Camps

Duration: 1–2 weeks (summer)
Location: John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York City
Application Deadline: Early May
Age Requirements: High school juniors and seniors

If you’re all about intensive, no-nonsense legal training, John Jay College has you covered. Their pre-law boot camps throw you into the world of legal research, critical thinking, and persuasive writing with a criminal justice twist. Located right in NYC, this program gives you access to professors, legal professionals, and real-world case studies. It’s like boot camp, but instead of push-ups, you’ll be flexing your argumentation skills.

20. NSLC Law and Advocacy Program

Duration: 6–18 days (summer)
Location: Various campuses (including Georgetown and Yale)
Application Deadline: Rolling (apply by spring for top choices)
Age Requirements: Grades 9–12

The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) is all about action. Their Law and Advocacy Program lets you dive headfirst into trial simulations, jury selection exercises, and interactive workshops led by practicing attorneys and judges. Plus, you’ll build leadership skills alongside other ambitious students from across the country. This is where law meets leadership, with a side of public speaking mastery.

21. New Visions: Law & Government Program

Duration: Full academic year (school-year program)
Location: Albany, NY
Application Deadline: Varies by district (typically spring)
Age Requirements: High school seniors (must be enrolled in a participating New York State school)

This program is the real-deal hybrid: part academic coursework, part internship, all action. Students split their time between classroom studies on law and government and internships at state courts, legislative offices, or law firms in Albany. You’ll analyze case law, explore public policy, and get an insider’s view of New York’s legal and political systems. Perfect for students who want consistent, deep engagement in the field—not just a summer fling.

Community and School-Based Opportunities

22. High School Mock Trial Teams

Duration: School year (seasonal competitions)
Location: Your high school and regional/state competitions
Application Deadline: Varies by school (usually early fall)
Age Requirements: Open to all high school students

Mock trial teams are like varsity sports for legal nerds—but with fewer concussions and more objections. You’ll prep witness statements, build cases, and argue in front of real judges (or at least lawyers who moonlight as judges). It’s competitive, intense, and insanely rewarding, sharpening your public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork skills. Whether you’re eyeing the attorney’s podium or the witness stand, this is where legal skills get battle-tested.

23. Debate Clubs with Legal Focus

Duration: School year (with tournaments throughout)
Location: Your high school and regional/national tournaments
Application Deadline: Varies by school (typically fall)
Age Requirements: Open to all high school students

Debate club, but make it law-flavored. Many high school debate teams offer formats like Lincoln-Douglas (values-based debates) or Public Forum (current events)—both fertile ground for budding legal eagles. You’ll learn to argue both sides of a case, think on your feet, and dismantle your opponent’s logic (politely, of course). These skills? Total game-changers in law school and beyond.

24. Student Government Participation

Duration: School year (elected positions)
Location: Your high school
Application Deadline: Typically late spring for the following year
Age Requirements: Open to all high school students (depending on the role)

Okay, so student government might not scream “legal experience,” but hear us out. Governing your peers gives you a front-row seat to leadership, policy-making, and conflict resolution—aka, the soft skills every great lawyer needs. Whether you’re writing the student handbook or managing the prom budget, you’re learning how systems work and how to advocate for change. Plus, those campaign speeches? Perfect public speaking practice.

25. Legal-Themed School Clubs

Duration: School year (weekly or bi-weekly meetings)
Location: Your high school (or virtual clubs)
Application Deadline: Rolling (whenever your school kicks off club sign-ups)
Age Requirements: Open to all high school students

Don’t have a mock trial team or debate club? Start a legal club yourself. Or join one that’s focused on legal careers, current events, or justice issues. These clubs are what you make them—bring in guest speakers, host case study discussions, or even organize field trips to courthouses. It’s a low-pressure way to explore different aspects of the law, build leadership skills, and connect with like-minded peers. Plus, starting one from scratch? Big-time brownie points with colleges.

IV. Making the Most of Your Legal Experience

Here’s the thing about dipping your toes into the legal world early: it’s not just about racking up hours or collecting shiny names for your resume. It’s about making it stick—turning those experiences into fuel for your future.

Reflect and Document

Don’t just do the work. Process it. Keep a journal (or digital doc, for the tech-savvy) where you jot down the cool cases you shadowed, the arguments that stuck with you, the moments you thought, “Hey, I could do this.” Write about the awkward stuff too—the first time you stumbled over legal jargon or felt intimidated by a courtroom. These reflections? Gold for future college essays or even interviews.

Seek Mentorship

Made a connection with that sharp-eyed paralegal or inspiring attorney during your internship or program? Keep in touch. Shoot a thank-you email, ask for advice now and then, or schedule the occasional coffee chat. Mentors can help you navigate the maze of legal careers, recommend future opportunities, or just offer wisdom when imposter syndrome creeps in.

Stay Engaged

When the internship or programends, don’t ghost the legal world. Join online forums (like r/LawSchool or Pre-Law Reddit), follow legal podcasts, or subscribe to law-related newsletters. Stay curious. Staying engaged keeps your momentum rolling and helps you explore different corners of the field.

Prepare for the Future

When it’s time to write those college essays or make big career decisions, this is your secret weapon. You won’t just say you’re interested in law—you’ll show it, with stories, insights, and hard-earned experiences that prove you’ve walked the walk.

V. Conclusion: Your Legal Journey Starts Now

So here’s the bottom line: you don’t need to wait for law school to start living the law. Whether you’re shadowing a local attorney, debating constitutional rights at a mock trial, or diving headfirst into forensic simulations, these experiences give you a front-row seat to the legal world now—not four years and one LSAT later.

The best part? Every single one of these opportunities puts you ahead of the curve. They help you figure out what fires you up, what kind of law (if any) feels like your calling, and give you stories that make your college apps pop. The courtroom lights may not be shining on you just yet, but this is how you start building that stage.

Ready to get serious? Let’s make a game plan. Schedule a free consultation with Admissionado, and we’ll help you map out your legal journey—tailored to your goals, your interests, and yeah, your cousin’s summer gig doesn’t stand a chance.