Take What You Learn in the Classroom into the Courtroom
Gain firsthand experience of courtroom procedures and what judges expect from attorneys through a judicial internship in state or federal courts. Guided by judges and clerks, you will develop courtroom insights, build professional contacts, and acquire practical litigation skills that can enhance your knowledge and confidence to become an effective and persuasive litigator.
Real Law. Real Life. What You Will do.
While no two judicial internships are exactly alike, here is some of what you can expect to do.
Research case law
Draft opinions
Prepare memoranda
Observe or assist in court
Discuss proceedings
Find a mentor for life
Where You Will Intern
We’ll arrange an internship in a court that fits your interests and career goals. Think you want to practice criminal law? Choose to intern in the Superior Court or District Court where you’ll see cases involving search and seizure, drug distribution, and gun possession. More interested in family, public interest law or trusts and estates? Then consider Probate or Family Court where you’ll see cases related to the family, custody, and child abuse.
A Clerkship: Where You Can Go Next
Interested in a postgraduate clerkship? A judicial internship can be an excellent place to start. It helps you build practical skills, professional connections, and firsthand knowledge of the courts, all of which can strengthen your candidacy for future clerkship opportunities. Recent New England Law graduates have gone on to serve as judicial clerks at many levels, including the U.S. District Court, numerous state supreme courts, appeals courts, superior courts, municipal courts, and specialized courts such as the Land Court and Juvenile Court.
The Summer Judicial Internship Program
Work full-time during the summer and receive a stipend from New England Law. Students work closely with judges, assisting with research and writing, and observing and discussing courtroom proceedings.
The Honors Judicial Internship Program
Work part-time as a judicial intern and receive academic credit. Students work closely with judges, assisting with research and writing, and observing and discussing courtroom proceedings.
Stories of Success
“Choosing a law school with a part-time program enabled me to pursue my dream of becoming an attorney and provided the flexibility to build my Résumé through full-time internships, clinics, and employment.”
“I was able to experience what life is really like as counsel for an international corporation.”
“Our graduates stay, grow their careers, and help build our communities. We’re woven into the fabric of New England.”
“There are hundreds of law schools to choose from, but very few of them leave the impression New England Law does on its students.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply for a judicial internship?
Deadlines are typically set many months before the internship starts. Students are notified of all deadlines at the beginning of each semester.
Will I receive a stipend or credit as a judicial intern?
Full-time summer internships pay a stipend; in the part-time Honors program, interns earn academic credit.
Related Clinics, Experiences, and Centers
Contact Us
New England Law Admissions staff is here to help you through the application process. If you have any questions, please complete the form below or contact the Office of Admissions at admit@nesl.edu or call 617-422-7210.