Top 10 Famous Law Internships for High School Students 2026
If you’re a high-school student who plans to pursue a career in law the most beneficial thing to do is begin in the early stages. Internships offer real-world exposure for legal professions, aid you develop your resume and can help strengthen your applications to law school or college.
The positive side? Numerous law firms, organizations as well as non-profits and government offices have programs that are designed specifically for teenagers looking to learn more about the legal world.
Here below are 10 top law-related internships for high school students in 2026. with states, national, and online options.
1. U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) – Youth Leadership & Internship Programs
The DOJ has a variety of programs available to enthusiastic high school students interested in the field of criminal justice or civil rights federal law. Interns are able to assist in research, watch the proceedings of a court, or assist in administrative duties.
- is ideal for Students who are interested in federal law, law enforcement or civil rights
- Place: Washington, D.C. and select states
- Type: Competitive, paid/unpaid according to the program
2. ACLU High School Internship Program
The American Civil Liberties Union offers students and interns opportunities specifically focused upon civil rights issues, freedom of speech, privacy, as well as justice reform.
is ideal to: Human rights-minded students who are passionate
Place: Nationwide (many remote choices)
Type: Unpaid
3. Judicial Internships With Local Courthouses
Many state and county courts permit students from high schools to work as clerks and judges. They may be required to organize cases files, attending hearings in court, and gaining knowledge of the procedure for hearings.
Ideal for: Students who are interested in the courtroom procedure
Location: Local
Typ: Unpaid, but extremely useful
4. District Attorney’s Office High School Internship
Local prosecutors usually provide structured programs for teenagers. Interns are taught about criminal cases and evidence review, as well as assistance for victims and preparation for trial.
Ideal for: Students who are interested in criminal justice
Localization: Varies by county
Typ: Usually unpaid
5. Public Defender’s Office Internships
Public Defender Offices often accept students who volunteer to attend client meetings, assist with the organization of legally-binding documents and discover how lawyers protect those who are unable to afford legal representation.
Ideal for: Students who are interested in social or criminal law
Location: Local
Type: Unpaid
6. Law Firm Summer Internship (Local Firms)
Numerous law firms that are private offer summer internships to high school students particularly smaller or mid-sized firms that deal with immigration, family law or personal injury matters. High school interns usually assist with filing as well as research and administrative tasks.
is ideal for Students seeking an experience in a real-world law firm
Location: Local
Typ: Unpaid or small Stipend
7. Congressional Internship (U.S. House or Senate Offices)
Students in high school can apply to work for the local office of their representative. Interns assist with research for legislation take part in briefings, as well as understand how laws are made.
is ideal option for Student who is interested in the field of political science or law.
Locale: Washington, D.C. District offices
Type: Sometimes paid
8. National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) – Law & Advocacy Program
This is a prestigious college preparatory program that offers practical mock trials, courtroom education, and presentations from actual judges and attorneys. While it’s not a typical internship but it provides a deep exposure to the legal system.
Best for: Students exploring college majors
Location: Various U.S. universities
Type: Paid program
9. Boys & Girls State / American Legion Law & Government Programs
The programs teach students about how legislation, government, and civic leadership are all interconnected. Participants create mock governments, write policy and discuss legal issues.
Ideal for: Students who are interested about constitutional law and public policies.
Where: All 50 states
Type: Competitive, often scholarship-based
10. Nonprofit Legal Aid Internships
Organizations such as Legal Aid Society, Innocence Project and local advocacy groups permit students from high schools to help in local outreach and legal clinics and other office-related tasks.
- is ideal for Students who are passionate about helping the under-served
- Location: Nationwide
- Type: Unpaid or volunteer-based
How to Get a Law Internship as a High School Student
To improve your chances:
- Make a simple, neat resume
- Write a short cover letter explaining your interest in law
- Reach out to local law firms or your local courthouse directly
- Request counselors or teachers for letters of recommendation
- Apply early. Many 2026 programs begin in January or March.
Final Thoughts
Internships in law for students at high schools will open the doors to jobs in the field of legal practice, government as well as justice reform. If you’re looking for a career in corporate law, civil rights as well as public policy, these internships will help you build confidence and experience prior to entering college.
