Securing Criminal Law Internships: A Practical Guide

Mar 08, 2024

Written By Georgia Purcell

As a law student, internships will play a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of your career. They’re an invaluable opportunity to gain some hands-on experience of the area you want to go into – and especially if this is criminal law! In the criminal law sector, internships are going to provide you with a unique perspective of the inside workings of the criminal justice system. Not sure how to go about securing an internship? Don’t worry! We’ll walk you through the steps to gaining an internship and the ways to make the most of it once you’re there.

Understanding Criminal Law Internships

Internships in criminal law will typically involve a variety of tasks.

Often, you’ll be asked to carry out tasks like legal research and drafting documents, but you’ll also have enough time to observe some court proceedings. This will offer you a chance to develop skills that you already use during your degree, whilst honing them to ensure you’re fitting the bill for what the firm is asking for.

Drafting tasks are a great way to showcase the strengths you develop during your degree, and how you’ll transfer these integral skills from student to lawyer. An internship will give you a glimpse into the day-to-day realities of working in criminal law – but more importantly, it will help you to make informed career decisions, build a professional network, and be a shining star on your resume.

Researching Internship Opportunities

Once you know what you’re looking for in a criminal law internship, your next step is to get researching!

There are so many potential opportunities – you just have to know where to find them. Start on law firm websites and legal job boards, search out your university’s career centre, and even make use of some of those personal connections! Law firm websites and legal directories are particularly helpful in locating firms that are happy to offer internships in criminal law. University career services are also invaluable when searching for internships – they might offer many things you don’t know about!

Crafting Your Application Materials

Making sure your application is effective is crucial to securing your dream internship. Your resume is the first impression you’ll make on the firm, so it’s important to get it right. It needs to be absolutely flawless and tailored to highlight your most relevant coursework and skills.

You’re also going to need a compelling cover letter that underscores your interest in criminal law and your qualifications.

When choosing references, picking people who know you academically or professionally is a great way to ensure your academic skills are being conveyed and that the firm knows you’re going to make the most of an opportunity like this.

Make sure you ask their permission before listing them as references and provide them with enough information so that they can tailor their recommendation!

Navigating the Application Process

Every firm will have unique practice areas, cultures, and expectations from interns. It’s essential for you to customise your application materials for each internship – one size doesn’t fit all!

Research the firm heavily before applying and understand its culture. Tailor your resume to align with the firm’s needs and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.

Once you’ve submitted your application that’s only the beginning! Following up on your application can differentiate you from everyone else who’s applying – it demonstrates an initiative and shows how keen you are on the internship. You can follow up with a phone call or a polite email enquiring about the status of your application.

Remember to be professional and respect the employer’s time – they’re human too! Practice your interview questions before, and don’t forget to prep some questions to ask the interviewer too. It’s a two-way street!

Excelling in Your Internship

Securing the internship is a huge win, but the real work comes after! An internship is a golden chance to learn, develop skills, and build a network.

The relationships you form during your internship can have a lasting impact on your career. Building positive relationships with your supervisors can lead to opportunities for mentorships, references, and even future job opportunities.

Seek feedback from them regularly, and don’t be afraid to ask questions – everyone knows you’re there to learn! Taking initiative shows your commitment to the internship and your eagerness for this career. If you see an opportunity to contribute further, express your interests – but be careful not to take on too much too quickly!

Dress appropriately and communicate respectfully with everyone in the firm. Another one of the most important things to remember is to maintain confidentiality, especially if you come across sensitive client information.

By excelling in your internship, you can lay a strong foundation for your career.

Networking and Building Connections

Networking and building connections are crucial aspects of a successful legal career. They require proactive effort, strategic planning, and genuine engagement. By connecting with professionals during your internship, attending legal events, joining associations, and using online platforms, you can build a strong network in the criminal law field.

In today’s digital age, online networking platforms like LinkedIn play a huge role in professional networking, as well as joining criminal law associations like bar associations or student criminal law organisations. As an intern you’ll be surrounded by professionals in the criminal law field, so there’s no better time to make the most of it and build your network!

Conclusion

Securing a criminal internship and making the most of it is not an easy job. It requires research, preparation, and proactive networking. Following our tips gives you a great chance, but the rest is up to you.

Remember, with the right approach and attitude, a criminal law internship can be a stepping stone to the successful legal career you’ve always dreamed of!

Legal Work Experience