Where's an undergrad supposed to go?
As an economics majoring undergrad I've come to the conclusion that it is impossible to find internships in the field of law. And I don't mean that its impossible to find the paper filing, paper sorting type of 'law-field' internships (even those are rare), I mean those internships where I get to see what things are really ("really") like.
You've been through the process, more times than once I imagine, TELL ME, PLEASE, where I should look/go/attempt.
(15) Comments
What? An intern is essentially a mini-paralegal. You have no license and no method of being able to practice under supervision.
You pretty much have to take a "paper push" job at a firm or law office. Remember, you can't write papers, you can't go on the record at all, you can't appear under supervision, nada.
You could prep certain kind of more simplistic, "volume" paperwork as long as you didn't sign off on them, I suppose, but I personally would not use an intern in such a fashion unless I had known them for a while and trusted their ability. Quite honestly, the interns I've had, while helpful, have commonly cost me MORE time while I correct their work than I really would spend if I did it myself.
Now, with that said, you could find yourself in a paralegal type gig where you do learn quite a bit if you are proactive and keep your eyes open. Try a smaller firm or a public assistance/public law organization, like a local District Attorney. They're usually looking for any and all kinds of help.
You should watch a lot of lawyer shows on TV. The practice of law is exactly like what you'll see on TV. Also, rent some movies based on John Grisham's novels. I'd tell you to read the books, but watching the movies will take less time.
You should watch a lot of lawyer shows on TV. The practice of law is exactly like what you'll see on TV. Also, rent some movies based on John Grisham's novels. I'd tell you to read the books, but watching the movies will take less time.
Ditto the first poster.
I suggest you look for paralegal jobs at plaintiff side firms or volunteer at public interest/legal aid offices. They tend to be smaller and without the rigid structure that comes with bigger, corporate places. Some plaintiffs' places will let you do intake, light doc review, and minor drafting of things like affidavits, and because they are smaller and flatter organizations, you'll get a decent idea of what the practice is like.
That said, you will be a paper pusher. A "good" paralegal job (ie one that will teach you about the law) will still probably be 75% administrative...file management and whatnot.
I would hire you, but it is evident from your post that you cannot write.
See the thing with paper pusher gigs is that you might actually learn something if you bother to read the paper you're pushing. Don't knock it until you've tried it.
If you didn't join the secret society in undergrad already, you're screwed. Economics major? Hah. That's one of those majors they throw out there to distract the chumps who don't know about the secret society.
Basically your legal career is over.
Hi,
Economics major is a tough thing and before this if you don't join the society then this will create problems to you.
DKS
http://www.cigarsdirect.com
Try interning in the legal department of a good sized company.
By the way, if you REALLY want to know what it's REALLY like to practice law, that crappy "paper-pushing" job you turn your nose up at will be a remarkably good indicator.
you can always become a hooker.
Why would you go into law? Most lawyers hate practicing law. Find something fun to do and you will be happier in life.
I agree with 12:01 - you're basically screwed. Unless you have a relative willing to let you shadow them or something.
But maybe you're better off this way. See 2:32.
7:23 PM: Word.
i just started interning at my good family friends private firm and right now i am doing the "paper pushing" job, but ill tell u what, i have learned so much. I guess it's also because i am good friends with this person so she takes the time to show me documents and explain situations and bring me to court and whatnot... long story short is dont knock the "paper pushing" job, ull never know where it can lead u unless u try it. u might make connections in a high place that will help u out later on
I am an undergraduate student studying international relations and I feel your pain on the difficulty of finding quality internships. But you have to be open to any and all options. Currently I am interning for a judge at the U.S. Federal Court and I LOVE it. Although it is not paid, I do filing for the judge and law clerks. In return I get to watch civil and criminal court proceedings and the judge explains what's going on after the hearings or sentencings. Try that, it's worth it!!!