by A well-structured CV for a law internship is crucial for securing a competitive position in a legal firm or department.
Since work placements often serve as the first step toward a career, your curriculum vitae should highlight relevant academic achievements, skills, and any practical experience that sets you apart.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key elements of a strong law internship CV, from formatting and essential resume sections to tips for making your application stand out.
Legal intern CV structure
1. Contact Information
Your contact details should be straightforward and easy to find at the top of your resume for law internship.
Provide your full name, email address, phone number, and professional social media links such as LinkedIn. Ensure these are accurate and up-to-date.
Sarah Williams
sarah.williams@email.com | +1 (555) 987-6543 | linkedin.com/in/sarahwilliamslaw
2. Personal Statement or Objective
Write a concise paragraph (2–3 sentences) about your aspirations, highlighting your motivation and what you seek in an internship. Focus on your passion for law and your specific area of interest.
An ambitious law student at University of Chicago School of Law with a keen interest in environmental law. Seeking an internship that will allow me to apply my analytical skills and gain hands-on experience in a law firm specializing in regulatory issues.
3. Education
List your law degree, university, and expected graduation date. You may also mention any specific coursework, honors, or projects relevant to the position you're applying for.
Example:
Juris Doctor (JD), University of Chicago School of Law | Expected Graduation: May 2026
- Relevant Coursework: Environmental Law, Constitutional Law, Legal Research and Writing
- Dean’s List, Fall 2025
4. Relevant Experience
Provide detailed information about previous internships, legal work, or other roles that involve research, analysis, or writing. Emphasize your responsibilities and the skills you developed in each position.
Legal Intern
Greenwood & Moore Attorneys | Chicago, IL | June 2024 – August 2024
- Assisted in drafting legal documents, including contracts and memoranda for clients in the environmental sector.
- Conducted in-depth research on regulatory compliance issues for clients in the energy industry.
- Collaborated with senior attorneys on litigation preparation for a high-profile case.
5. Skills
Include both hard and soft skills in resume, such as proficiency in legal research tools, writing, communication, and attention to detail.
Example for CV for legal internship:
- Research (LexisNexis, Westlaw)
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Strong Written and Oral Communication
- Time Management and Attention to Detail
- Fluent in French (spoken and written)
6. Extracurricular Activities
Involvement in legal societies or organizations can showcase your commitment and leadership qualities outside of academics.
President
University of Chicago Law Review | September 2023 – Present
- Managed a team of 30 editors to review and publish legal articles.
- Coordinated with faculty and legal experts to organize discussions on contemporary legal issues.
- Led student workshops on legal writing and academic publishing.
7. Awards and Certifications
Include any distinctions or training that demonstrate your excellence in specific areas of law or related fields. This could be recognition from your university or professional courses you've completed.
Best Oral Advocate, University of Chicago Moot Court Competition
8. References (Optional)
Provide the names and contact details of professors, supervisors, or mentors who can speak to your abilities and dedication to the law.
Final tips for a law student CV:
- Customize your document to reflect the specific requirements of the position you’re applying for.
- Be concise—limit your legal intern CV to one or two pages, especially if you're still in school.
- Proofread your application to eliminate any errors. A polished paper will leave a strong impression on potential employers.
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Law internship CV examples
Law student CV for corporate internship
Sarah Williams
sarah.williams@email.com | +1 (555) 987-6543 | linkedin.com/in/sarahwilliamslawPersonal Statement
A motivated and detail-oriented law student at Columbia Law School with a focus on corporate law and mergers and acquisitions. Eager to apply my research, writing, and negotiation skills in a fast-paced legal environment. Seeking a summer internship at a top-tier law firm to further develop my expertise in corporate legal matters.
Education
Juris Doctor (JD), Columbia Law School
Expected Graduation: May 2026
- Relevant Coursework: Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate Governance, Securities Regulation
- Dean’s List, Fall 2024
Relevant Experience
Legal Intern
Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP | New York, NY | June 2024 – August 2024
- Drafted and reviewed contracts for corporate clients in sectors like technology and finance.
- Assisted with legal research on compliance regulations for public companies.
- Collaborated with senior attorneys in preparing case strategies for high-profile mergers.
- Attended client meetings to observe negotiations and provided summaries of legal discussions.
Skills
- Legal Research (Westlaw, LexisNexis, Bloomberg Law)
- Contract Drafting and Review
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Strong Oral and Written Communication
- Time Management and Multitasking
- Negotiation and Client Relationship Management
- Basic Knowledge of Tax Law
- Fluent in Spanish (spoken and written)
Extracurricular Activities
Vice President, Columbia Law School Corporate Law Society | September 2023 – Present
- Organize speaker events and workshops on corporate law topics.
- Coordinate networking opportunities for students and professionals in corporate legal fields.
- Lead a team to design a legal clinic offering free business incorporation services to startups.
Certifications
- Certification in Legal Research & Writing, LexisNexis Academy | August 2024
Fresher CV for criminal law internship
James Anderson
james.anderson@email.com | +1 (555) 654-3210 | linkedin.com/in/jamesandersonlawPersonal Statement
A passionate law student at the University of Michigan Law School, specializing in criminal defense and civil rights law. Looking for a hands-on internship where I can apply my skills in legal research and client advocacy. Dedicated to helping those who face injustice within the criminal justice system.
Education
Juris Doctor (JD), University of Michigan Law School
Expected Graduation: May 2026
- Relevant Coursework: Criminal Law, Evidence, Constitutional Law
- Honorary Mention, Best Brief, Michigan Moot Court Competition
Relevant Experience
Legal Intern
Michigan Public Defender’s Office | Detroit, MI | May 2024 – August 2024
- Assisted in preparing case files and legal briefs for criminal defense cases.
- Conducted client interviews and provided support during trial preparations.
- Researched legal precedents for use in defense strategies and motions.
- Attended court hearings and provided detailed reports on trial developments.
- Observed sentencing hearings and documented the application of criminal law.
Skills
- Legal Research and Analysis (LexisNexis, Westlaw, PACER)
- Client Interviewing and Counseling
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Strong Negotiation and Communication Skills
- Crisis Management and Conflict Resolution
- Time Management and Organization
- Fluent in Spanish (spoken and written)
- Knowledge of Juvenile Justice System
Extracurricular Activities
Member, Michigan Law Criminal Law Society | September 2023 – Present
- Participate in organizing mock trials and advocacy workshops for law students.
- Volunteer at local legal aid clinics providing pro bono services.
- Coordinate outreach events to raise awareness about wrongful convictions and reform.
Volunteer Work
Volunteer, Michigan Innocence Clinic | January 2024 – Present
- Help investigate claims of wrongful convictions by reviewing case files and legal records.
- Assist in drafting petitions for post-conviction relief and representing clients in appeals.
CV for environmental law students
Emma Thompson
emma.thompson@email.com | +1 (555) 321-4321 | linkedin.com/in/emmathompsonlawPersonal Statement
A dedicated environmental law student at Harvard Law School with a strong interest in sustainability and environmental regulations. I am looking for an internship that allows me to engage in real-world legal challenges while contributing to the protection of natural resources. Keen to bring my research and policy analysis skills to an esteemed environmental law firm.
Education
Juris Doctor (JD), Harvard Law School
Expected Graduation: May 2026
- Relevant Coursework: Environmental Law, International Environmental Policy, Climate Change Law
- Top 5% of Class, Fall 2024
Relevant Experience
Legal Intern
Environmental Defense Fund | Boston, MA | June 2024 – August 2024
- Assisted in drafting legal documents related to environmental compliance and sustainability issues.
- Conducted research on state and federal regulations regarding climate change mitigation.
- Collaborated with attorneys on advocacy efforts to promote stronger environmental protections.
- Drafted policy recommendations on environmental protection for legislative bodies.
- Analyzed environmental impact statements and identified potential legal violations.
Skills
- Legal Research (Westlaw, LexisNexis, Bloomberg Law)
- Environmental Regulations and Compliance
- Policy Analysis and Advocacy
- Strong Writing and Presentation Skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
- Knowledge of Administrative Law and Agency Practices
- Fluent in French (spoken and written)
- Public Speaking and Community Outreach
Extracurricular Activities
President, Harvard Environmental Law Society | September 2023 – Present
- Lead initiatives to organize workshops and speaker events on climate change and environmental justice.
- Coordinate collaborations with law firms and NGOs focused on environmental law.
- Organize a symposium on international environmental law and its impact on U.S. legislation.
Leadership Experience
Chair, Harvard Green Energy Committee | September 2023 – Present
- Direct the committee in organizing campus-wide sustainability initiatives and campaigns.
- Collaborate with local environmental groups to implement energy-saving projects across campus.
- Lead outreach efforts to engage students in environmental activism and advocacy.
Conclusion
A strong legal intern CV showcases your academic background, skills, and relevant experiences in a clear and compelling manner.
By tailoring your document to the specific role, using a professional format, and highlighting key achievements, you increase your chances of securing a valuable opportunity in the legal field.
Take the time to refine your law student resume for an internship, proofread it carefully, and ensure it presents you as a promising future lawyer.
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