Internships are a crucial part of every law student’s academic journey. They not only offer hands-on experience in the legal world but also help build practical skills, develop a professional network, and often open doors to full-time job opportunities. However, landing the best internships, especially in competitive sectors like corporate law, litigation, or international organizations, requires more than just good grades.
Whether you’re a first-year law student or nearing graduation, here’s a detailed guide on how to get the best internships as a law student in India.
1. Start Early and Be Proactive
Most top-tier internships require you to apply well in advance. Some law firms and legal chambers fill their internship slots 2-3 months before the actual period. Therefore, it’s important to start early. If you’re in your first or second year, don’t wait to get a feel for internships, start applying for NGO or legal research internships to build a base.
Being proactive also means:
- Regularly checking law school notice boards and internship groups
- Keeping track of application deadlines
- Reaching out via email or LinkedIn before the crowd
2. Build a Strong CV and Cover Letter
Your CV is your first impression. A clean, well-structured, and focused CV increases your chances of selection significantly. Tailor your CV to highlight:
- Legal skills (like legal research, drafting, mooting)
- Academic performance
- Certifications and online courses
- Extra-curricular achievements relevant to law
Cover Letter Tips:
- Address it to the right person or firm
- Show genuine interest in the organization
- Briefly explain why you’re a good fit
Avoid generic cover letters. Personalization shows that you’ve done your homework and care about the opportunity.
3. Use the Right Platforms
In the digital age, numerous platforms help students find internships efficiently. Some of the most trusted ones include:
- Lawctopus – India’s most popular platform for legal internship updates and experiences
- Internshala – Offers legal internships, especially for NGOs and startups
- LinkedIn – Great for networking and discovering hidden opportunities
- Firms’ Websites – Many top law firms have internship sections on their official websites (like AZB, CAM, SAM, Trilegal)
- Legal Bites / iPleaders – These websites often share updates on internships and skill-building courses
Create alerts or subscribe to newsletters so you never miss an opportunity.
4. Network Effectively
Networking can play a huge role in securing internships, especially at well-known law firms or under senior advocates. Attend:
- Legal seminars and workshops
- Moot court competitions
- Webinars and online certificate programs
Build genuine connections with:
- Alumni from your law school
- Professors who may have industry contacts
- Seniors who’ve already interned at places you’re aiming for
Don’t be afraid to send polite messages on LinkedIn asking for guidance or referrals — many professionals are happy to help students.
5. Focus on Skill Building
Sometimes, internships are denied due to lack of relevant skills. Make sure you build your knowledge of:
- Legal research (use SCC Online, Manupatra, or Indian Kanoon)
- Drafting contracts, legal notices, or petitions
- Citation formats (like Bluebook or ILI)
You can take up short courses on:
- Contract drafting
- IPR (Intellectual Property Rights)
- Cyber Law
- Corporate Law Basics
Platforms like iPleaders, LawSikho, and Udemy offer such skill-specific modules.
6. Apply Smartly and Strategically
Don’t randomly apply to every firm or chamber. Identify your areas of interest — for example, criminal law, corporate law, litigation, or policy. Then target organizations that align with your goals. Customize your applications accordingly.
Also, don’t overlook lesser-known law firms, legal aid cells, or startups — they often provide more hands-on work experience compared to big firms where interns may only observe proceedings.
7. Ace the Interview (If Required)
Some internships, especially those at Tier-1 law firms or international NGOs, involve interviews. Prepare yourself by:
- Knowing about the organization’s area of practice
- Brushing up on basic legal knowledge (Contract Act, Constitution, etc.)
- Being clear about your expectations and career goals
Be confident, articulate, and honest. If you don’t know something, admit it rather than bluffing.
8. Maintain a Track Record
Once you get an internship, perform well and treat it like a stepping stone. A good internship record will:
- Lead to recommendation letters
- Strengthen your CV
- Open up future opportunities at the same organization
Always follow professional etiquette: be punctual, dress appropriately, communicate respectfully, and complete assignments on time.
9. Keep a Portfolio or Internship Diary
Maintain a portfolio or diary of your internship experiences. Include:
- What you learned
- What tasks you handled (e.g., drafting, researching)
- Mentors or lawyers you worked under
This helps when applying for future roles and writing Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for higher studies or scholarship applications.
10. Stay Consistent and Don’t Get Discouraged
Rejections are part of the process. Even top students get turned down. Don’t take it personally. Instead:
- Reflect on what went wrong
- Improve your application materials
- Seek feedback
- Keep applying
Consistency and a learning mindset will eventually lead you to great opportunities.