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Rowaeda
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Internships for high school students in NJ for Law?
Hello! I am a freshman at a Law Academy high school in NJ !
I was wondering if anyone knows where I could get an internship for a Law office or attorney office. I am located in the Bergen/Sussex County part in NJ. I have been interested in social justice and civics my whole life and I want to help learn how it is to be an attorney or more about law in general. Please let me know :)
P.S I am 14 turning 15 right now
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6 answers
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Rowaeda!
Internships for High School Students in NJ for Law
1. Understanding the Landscape of Legal Internships in New Jersey
As a high school student interested in law, particularly in social justice and civics, you have several avenues to explore for internships in legal settings. Internships can provide invaluable experience and insight into the legal profession, helping you understand the day-to-day responsibilities of attorneys and the workings of law offices.
2. Types of Opportunities Available
In New Jersey, there are various types of internships available for high school students:
Law Firms: Many law firms offer internship programs or summer positions for high school students. These positions may involve administrative tasks, research assistance, or shadowing attorneys.
Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations focused on social justice often seek interns to help with community outreach, legal research, and advocacy work. This could be an excellent fit given your interest in social justice.
Government Agencies: Local government offices, such as public defenders’ offices or district attorney’s offices, may also offer internship opportunities. These positions can provide a unique perspective on the criminal justice system.
Courts: Some courts have programs that allow students to intern and observe court proceedings. This experience can be particularly enlightening regarding how the judicial system operates.
3. Finding Internship Opportunities
Here are steps you can take to find suitable internships:
Research Local Law Firms and Organizations: Start by looking up law firms in Bergen/Sussex County that might offer internships. Websites like FindLaw can help you locate local attorneys and firms.
Contact Nonprofits: Reach out to organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Jersey or local legal aid societies that focus on social justice issues. They often have volunteer or internship programs.
Utilize School Resources: Speak with your school’s guidance counselor or career services office. They may have connections with local law firms or know about specific internship opportunities tailored for students.
Network: Attend local events related to law and civic engagement where you can meet professionals in the field. Networking can lead to potential internship opportunities.
4. Application Process
Once you’ve identified potential internships:
Prepare Your Resume: Highlight any relevant coursework, extracurricular activities (like debate club), and volunteer experiences that demonstrate your interest in law.
Write a Cover Letter: Tailor your cover letter to each opportunity, expressing your passion for law and social justice and explaining why you’re interested in their organization specifically.
Follow Up: After submitting applications, consider following up with a polite email expressing your continued interest.
5. Additional Resources
You might also want to check platforms like InternMatch or Idealist where many nonprofits post internship opportunities specifically aimed at students interested in social justice work.
By taking these steps, you will increase your chances of securing an internship that aligns with your interests in law and social justice while gaining practical experience that will benefit you as you pursue a career in this field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. FindLaw FindLaw is a comprehensive resource providing information about legal topics, including directories of lawyers and law firms across various states including New Jersey.
2. ACLU of New Jersey The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is dedicated to defending individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution; they often provide resources for students interested in civil rights work through internships and volunteer opportunities.
3. Idealist Idealist is a platform connecting people with nonprofit organizations offering internships and volunteer opportunities focused on social change, making it an excellent resource for those interested in social justice careers.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|================God Bless You, Richly ~ Because GOD CAN!====================|
|===James Constantine Frangos ~ THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN===|
|=========I Have Been Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!========|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Internships for High School Students in NJ for Law
1. Understanding the Landscape of Legal Internships in New Jersey
As a high school student interested in law, particularly in social justice and civics, you have several avenues to explore for internships in legal settings. Internships can provide invaluable experience and insight into the legal profession, helping you understand the day-to-day responsibilities of attorneys and the workings of law offices.
2. Types of Opportunities Available
In New Jersey, there are various types of internships available for high school students:
Law Firms: Many law firms offer internship programs or summer positions for high school students. These positions may involve administrative tasks, research assistance, or shadowing attorneys.
Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations focused on social justice often seek interns to help with community outreach, legal research, and advocacy work. This could be an excellent fit given your interest in social justice.
Government Agencies: Local government offices, such as public defenders’ offices or district attorney’s offices, may also offer internship opportunities. These positions can provide a unique perspective on the criminal justice system.
Courts: Some courts have programs that allow students to intern and observe court proceedings. This experience can be particularly enlightening regarding how the judicial system operates.
3. Finding Internship Opportunities
Here are steps you can take to find suitable internships:
Research Local Law Firms and Organizations: Start by looking up law firms in Bergen/Sussex County that might offer internships. Websites like FindLaw can help you locate local attorneys and firms.
Contact Nonprofits: Reach out to organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Jersey or local legal aid societies that focus on social justice issues. They often have volunteer or internship programs.
Utilize School Resources: Speak with your school’s guidance counselor or career services office. They may have connections with local law firms or know about specific internship opportunities tailored for students.
Network: Attend local events related to law and civic engagement where you can meet professionals in the field. Networking can lead to potential internship opportunities.
4. Application Process
Once you’ve identified potential internships:
Prepare Your Resume: Highlight any relevant coursework, extracurricular activities (like debate club), and volunteer experiences that demonstrate your interest in law.
Write a Cover Letter: Tailor your cover letter to each opportunity, expressing your passion for law and social justice and explaining why you’re interested in their organization specifically.
Follow Up: After submitting applications, consider following up with a polite email expressing your continued interest.
5. Additional Resources
You might also want to check platforms like InternMatch or Idealist where many nonprofits post internship opportunities specifically aimed at students interested in social justice work.
By taking these steps, you will increase your chances of securing an internship that aligns with your interests in law and social justice while gaining practical experience that will benefit you as you pursue a career in this field.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. FindLaw FindLaw is a comprehensive resource providing information about legal topics, including directories of lawyers and law firms across various states including New Jersey.
2. ACLU of New Jersey The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is dedicated to defending individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution; they often provide resources for students interested in civil rights work through internships and volunteer opportunities.
3. Idealist Idealist is a platform connecting people with nonprofit organizations offering internships and volunteer opportunities focused on social change, making it an excellent resource for those interested in social justice careers.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|================God Bless You, Richly ~ Because GOD CAN!====================|
|===James Constantine Frangos ~ THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN===|
|=========I Have Been Programming For Your Nutrition Education ~ Since 1972!========|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1093
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Rowaeda,
You can search for internships on Indeed or LinkedIn. There are also websites specifically for high-school internships. I left a view links below.
I hope this helps!
KP
https://www.highschoollawgovjobs.com/ny-nj
https://www.standoutconnect.org/post/20-law-internships-for-high-school-students
https://odysseytestprep.com/law-internships-for-high-school-students/
https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562023/approved/internship.shtml
You can search for internships on Indeed or LinkedIn. There are also websites specifically for high-school internships. I left a view links below.
I hope this helps!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
That's great to see someone so passionate about law and social justice at such a young age! Since you’re in New Jersey and interested in internships or volunteering, here are a few targeted options:
1. **Local Law Firms:** Many law firms are open to high school students during the summer or for part-time internships. Start by checking out law firms in Bergen or Sussex counties. Reach out directly by calling or emailing them to inquire about possible internship openings.
2. **Government Offices or Elected Officials:** Look into internships with local government offices, such as those involving the district attorney, public defenders, or other public service roles. These positions often give a firsthand look at how the justice system works.
3. **Nonprofits and Advocacy Organizations:** You can also consider interning with nonprofits that focus on social justice, civil rights, or legal aid. Organizations like the **ACLU of New Jersey** or **Legal Services of New Jersey** might have volunteer opportunities or internships to get involved in their mission.
4. **Courts and Judicial Internships:** The **New Jersey Courts** offer paid internships for high school students, and this can be a great way to observe legal proceedings and gain a deeper understanding of the judicial system.
5. **Online Platforms for Internship Listings:** Websites like **Idealist.org** and **Indeed** often have internship opportunities for high school students in law and social justice.
6. **Networking & Volunteer Work:** Attend community events or legal-related seminars where you can network with attorneys, public defenders, or other legal professionals. Also, consider volunteering with your local community services or public offices, which may lead to more direct opportunities or connections.
Lastly, keep an eye on your school's guidance counselor or career services—they may have some local leads for internships and mentorship opportunities specific to high school students like yourself.
Good luck, and keep pushing forward with your dream of becoming an attorney! Your dedication will surely take you far.
1. **Local Law Firms:** Many law firms are open to high school students during the summer or for part-time internships. Start by checking out law firms in Bergen or Sussex counties. Reach out directly by calling or emailing them to inquire about possible internship openings.
2. **Government Offices or Elected Officials:** Look into internships with local government offices, such as those involving the district attorney, public defenders, or other public service roles. These positions often give a firsthand look at how the justice system works.
3. **Nonprofits and Advocacy Organizations:** You can also consider interning with nonprofits that focus on social justice, civil rights, or legal aid. Organizations like the **ACLU of New Jersey** or **Legal Services of New Jersey** might have volunteer opportunities or internships to get involved in their mission.
4. **Courts and Judicial Internships:** The **New Jersey Courts** offer paid internships for high school students, and this can be a great way to observe legal proceedings and gain a deeper understanding of the judicial system.
5. **Online Platforms for Internship Listings:** Websites like **Idealist.org** and **Indeed** often have internship opportunities for high school students in law and social justice.
6. **Networking & Volunteer Work:** Attend community events or legal-related seminars where you can network with attorneys, public defenders, or other legal professionals. Also, consider volunteering with your local community services or public offices, which may lead to more direct opportunities or connections.
Lastly, keep an eye on your school's guidance counselor or career services—they may have some local leads for internships and mentorship opportunities specific to high school students like yourself.
Good luck, and keep pushing forward with your dream of becoming an attorney! Your dedication will surely take you far.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1210
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Rowaeda!
It's fantastic that you're already interested in social justice and civics at such a young age! Here are a few suggestions for finding law internships in Bergen/Sussex County, NJ:
1. Local Law Firms: Reach out to law firms in your area, such as those in Hackensack or Clifton. Many firms offer internships for high school students, especially during the summer. You can contact them directly or check their websites for internship opportunities.
2. New Jersey Courts: The New Jersey Courts offer paid internship opportunities for high school students. These internships can provide valuable experience and insight into the legal system.
3. Government Offices: Consider reaching out to local government offices or elected officials in your area. They often have programs for high school students interested in law and public service.
4. Online Resources: Websites like StandOutConnect and Indeed list law internships for high school students. You can search for opportunities specifically in New Jersey and apply to multiple programs to increase your chances.
5. Cold Outreach: Don't hesitate to send cold emails to law offices expressing your interest and passion for law. Be sure to highlight your enthusiasm for social justice and your desire to learn more about the legal field.
Remember, persistence is key! Keep applying, and don't get discouraged if you don't hear back right away. Your passion and dedication will shine through, and I'm sure you'll find an opportunity that's perfect for you.
Good luck, and keep pursuing your dreams!
It's fantastic that you're already interested in social justice and civics at such a young age! Here are a few suggestions for finding law internships in Bergen/Sussex County, NJ:
1. Local Law Firms: Reach out to law firms in your area, such as those in Hackensack or Clifton. Many firms offer internships for high school students, especially during the summer. You can contact them directly or check their websites for internship opportunities.
2. New Jersey Courts: The New Jersey Courts offer paid internship opportunities for high school students. These internships can provide valuable experience and insight into the legal system.
3. Government Offices: Consider reaching out to local government offices or elected officials in your area. They often have programs for high school students interested in law and public service.
4. Online Resources: Websites like StandOutConnect and Indeed list law internships for high school students. You can search for opportunities specifically in New Jersey and apply to multiple programs to increase your chances.
5. Cold Outreach: Don't hesitate to send cold emails to law offices expressing your interest and passion for law. Be sure to highlight your enthusiasm for social justice and your desire to learn more about the legal field.
Remember, persistence is key! Keep applying, and don't get discouraged if you don't hear back right away. Your passion and dedication will shine through, and I'm sure you'll find an opportunity that's perfect for you.
Good luck, and keep pursuing your dreams!
Evan F
Tax
7
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Evan’s Answer
Hi Rowaeda,
I would approach your interest in a legal career from a short, medium, a long-term perspective.
Short-term:
- In addition to the court and law firm internships noted above, consider looking for high school internship opportunities in legal adjacent areas. For example, political offices/government offices are often looking for interns and many of those offices have staff attorneys. Surely some of your local representatives at the city or state level have a law background and would be willing to mentor you / provide an internship opportunity. Also, political experience gives you great insights into how the lawmaking process. Campaigns (either for a specific candidate or cause) are also a great way to get your foot in the door and there is no shortage of opportunities to get involved there.
Medium-term:
- Taking into consideration your strengths and interests, begin to think about what type of lawyer you would want to be. For example, as you are interested in working in the social justice space, what courses / activities / school involvement can you get involved in now that will help build your resume for college internships? If there a specific cause within the social justice space that you are passionate about, you could find a volunteer opportunity. This will help build your resume for college internships in that space, and those college internships will help build your resume for law school internships.
Long term:
In addition to finding mentors, which will happen naturally as you get involved in internships, volunteer opportunities, etc., you can begin to learn about your field of interest through informal education. Find some books, newspapers, articles, movies, podcasts, etc. that discuss what you are interested in and over time you would be amazed at how much you can learn. This will help expose you to the relevant issues learn about different paths in your career field of choice.
Good luck!
I would approach your interest in a legal career from a short, medium, a long-term perspective.
Short-term:
- In addition to the court and law firm internships noted above, consider looking for high school internship opportunities in legal adjacent areas. For example, political offices/government offices are often looking for interns and many of those offices have staff attorneys. Surely some of your local representatives at the city or state level have a law background and would be willing to mentor you / provide an internship opportunity. Also, political experience gives you great insights into how the lawmaking process. Campaigns (either for a specific candidate or cause) are also a great way to get your foot in the door and there is no shortage of opportunities to get involved there.
Medium-term:
- Taking into consideration your strengths and interests, begin to think about what type of lawyer you would want to be. For example, as you are interested in working in the social justice space, what courses / activities / school involvement can you get involved in now that will help build your resume for college internships? If there a specific cause within the social justice space that you are passionate about, you could find a volunteer opportunity. This will help build your resume for college internships in that space, and those college internships will help build your resume for law school internships.
Long term:
In addition to finding mentors, which will happen naturally as you get involved in internships, volunteer opportunities, etc., you can begin to learn about your field of interest through informal education. Find some books, newspapers, articles, movies, podcasts, etc. that discuss what you are interested in and over time you would be amazed at how much you can learn. This will help expose you to the relevant issues learn about different paths in your career field of choice.
Good luck!
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Rowaeda !
You most likely are attending Barringer High School Law and Public Safety Academy - that's wonderful !
It's fortunate that you are enrolled at a Law Academy because that is where your opportunities are right now as a freshman or sophomore in high school. Becoming an attorney doesn't happen at age 15, however, right now is the time to learn in your focused high school. An internship for Law at age 15 may be hard to find as internships are for people who have a basic understanding of law and government already, like in your college days before Law School.
The first thing that I would advise is to make a stronger connection with your teachers, read your school's calendar of events, and get all your information about grade appropriate experience opportunities from your teachers and guidance counselor. Start engaging in Volunteer Work which you can obtain much faster than an Internship. The volunteer work can be done at a politician's office, or any social or community services office in your community. Be aware of any upcoming projects at school that may be coming up and schedule your time efficiently.
Your high school offers rich academic pathways and experiences, so you need not take time looking for internships that you may not qualify for or that fill up fast. It may be a good idea to focus on the credentials and certifications offered to you right there at your school, ones you would not obtain through an internship. That's just my advice, but you need to make a choice for yourself. I just think that you'd get quicker opportunities if you deal with your school rather than applying for internships and waiting to hear back.
If you are definitely set on doing a Law Internship, and you are prepared and understand the basic operations of a law office, the documentation, the terms and jargon, then my advice is to not rely on the internet because not all internships are listed online. I would suggest that you phone all the law offices and ask if they provide internships to high schoolers. This way, by phoning, you may get a more immediate answer. Don't forget to call your local community based Legal Services office that does pro-bono work for income eligible clients. That may be the first place to try.
Understand that an internship or volunteer work is not going to give you the experience of "being" an attorney. You will not be assigned and trying cases right now. I suggest going to one of your local courts and sitting to watch cases. Observe the Judge and the plaintiffs and defendants. If you can get to a case that has a jury, that would be good, too. It will familiarize you with the real life process.
Congratulations on being at such a specialized high school ! You're getting the best foundation for your future academics, Law School and a fabulous career as an Attorney.
You most likely are attending Barringer High School Law and Public Safety Academy - that's wonderful !
It's fortunate that you are enrolled at a Law Academy because that is where your opportunities are right now as a freshman or sophomore in high school. Becoming an attorney doesn't happen at age 15, however, right now is the time to learn in your focused high school. An internship for Law at age 15 may be hard to find as internships are for people who have a basic understanding of law and government already, like in your college days before Law School.
The first thing that I would advise is to make a stronger connection with your teachers, read your school's calendar of events, and get all your information about grade appropriate experience opportunities from your teachers and guidance counselor. Start engaging in Volunteer Work which you can obtain much faster than an Internship. The volunteer work can be done at a politician's office, or any social or community services office in your community. Be aware of any upcoming projects at school that may be coming up and schedule your time efficiently.
Your high school offers rich academic pathways and experiences, so you need not take time looking for internships that you may not qualify for or that fill up fast. It may be a good idea to focus on the credentials and certifications offered to you right there at your school, ones you would not obtain through an internship. That's just my advice, but you need to make a choice for yourself. I just think that you'd get quicker opportunities if you deal with your school rather than applying for internships and waiting to hear back.
If you are definitely set on doing a Law Internship, and you are prepared and understand the basic operations of a law office, the documentation, the terms and jargon, then my advice is to not rely on the internet because not all internships are listed online. I would suggest that you phone all the law offices and ask if they provide internships to high schoolers. This way, by phoning, you may get a more immediate answer. Don't forget to call your local community based Legal Services office that does pro-bono work for income eligible clients. That may be the first place to try.
Understand that an internship or volunteer work is not going to give you the experience of "being" an attorney. You will not be assigned and trying cases right now. I suggest going to one of your local courts and sitting to watch cases. Observe the Judge and the plaintiffs and defendants. If you can get to a case that has a jury, that would be good, too. It will familiarize you with the real life process.
Congratulations on being at such a specialized high school ! You're getting the best foundation for your future academics, Law School and a fabulous career as an Attorney.