Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from The Legal Aid Society
Job overview
The Law Reform Legal Intern role at The Legal Aid Society offers law students the opportunity to engage in impactful legal research and policy reform work addressing systemic issues affecting clients.
Responsibilities and impact
Interns will conduct legal and factual research, client interviewing, participate in discovery and trial practice, and contribute to legal papers, policy memos, or legislative testimony within assigned law reform units.
Compensation and benefits
This internship is unpaid but eligible interns may receive a $1,000 stipend through the Howard Rossbach fund based on financial need and lack of funding for the internship.
Experience and skills
Applicants must be 2L or 3L law students in good standing with strong research, writing, communication skills, ability to analyze complex legal issues, initiative, and commitment to racial and social justice.
Career development
Interns gain experience in impact litigation, policy reform, coalition building, and public education, with opportunities to work in various specialized law reform units.
Work environment and culture
The Legal Aid Society fosters a culture of zealous advocacy, respect, diversity, inclusion, client-oriented defense, and access to justice.
Company information
The Legal Aid Society is a longstanding organization dedicated to providing legal aid and impact litigation to address systemic legal issues affecting underserved populations.
Team overview
Interns are assigned to one of several law reform units such as Criminal Defense Law Reform, Civil Practice, Juvenile Rights, or LGBTQ+ Law and Policy Initiative based on preferences and organizational needs.
Application process
Applications must be submitted online through The Legal Aid Society's Careers Page with a cover letter indicating unit preferences; stipend applications require a separate form submitted simultaneously.
Unique job features
The internship offers unique exposure to impact litigation and policy reform projects across multiple specialized units, with a stipend lottery supporting financially needy interns.
Company overview
The Legal Aid Society is a non-profit organization that provides free legal services to low-income individuals and families in New York City. They specialize in civil, criminal, and juvenile rights law, ensuring access to justice for those who cannot afford private attorneys. Founded in 1876, the organization has a long history of advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and influencing public policy. They make money through government grants, private donations, and fundraising events.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight your strong legal research, writing, and communication skills, emphasizing your ability to analyze complex legal and policy issues relevant to the specific law reform units at The Legal Aid Society.
Clearly state your interest in the units you prefer—such as the Criminal Defense Law Reform Team, Civil Practice Law Reform, Juvenile Rights, or LGBTQ+ Law and Policy Initiative—and tailor your cover letter to reflect your understanding of their work and your commitment to racial and social justice.
Apply through multiple channels including The Legal Aid Society's official Careers Page and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and ensure you meet all deadlines and submission requirements.
Connect with current or past interns and legal professionals within the relevant law reform units on LinkedIn. Use ice breakers like commenting on recent impact litigation or policy initiatives they've been involved in or expressing genuine enthusiasm about The Legal Aid Society's mission and your shared commitment to social justice.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'legal research,' 'impact litigation,' 'policy reform,' 'client interviewing,' and 'racial and social justice.' Use clear, standard headings and avoid graphics or unusual fonts to ensure ATS readability.
Leverage Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored resume customization, identify the best application platforms, and find LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and deepening your understanding of the role.
Jennie Johnson works for you!
Here’s what we do to make sure you’re successful:
Targeted Resume Revamp:
We expertly craft your resume to navigate Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and showcase your qualifications, making you stand out as a top-tier candidate.
Job Description Dissection:
Unpack the job posting with expert analysis, ensuring your application hits every key requirement.
Bespoke Cover Letter:
Capture the attention of hiring managers with a personalized cover letter that highlights how your skills align perfectly with the job's needs.
Interview Mastery:
Prepare for interviews like a pro with likely questions, strategic answers, and insightful questions for you to ask, setting you apart as an informed candidate.
Direct Application Insights:
Receive tailored advice on the best places to apply, ensuring your applications are seen by the right employers.
Skills and Gaps Assessment:
Identify and close critical skills gaps to position yourself as the best-fit candidate for your ideal job.
Personalized Email Pitch:
Make a memorable first impression with an email template crafted to engage potential employers and initiate meaningful conversations.
In-depth Research Guide:
Leverage comprehensive research tools to gather effective insights on companies, industry trends, and role-specific challenges.
Detailed Company Analysis:
Gain in-depth understanding of your prospective employer, giving you the edge in applications and interviews.
Strategic Candidate Overview:
Understand your unique value and why companies would want to interview you, highlighting your background and positioning.