Are Law Internships Paid?

When it comes to law internships, the payment aspect can vary greatly depending on the organization, the specific type of internship, and the location. This article aims to clarify the differences and provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect.

Summer Associates and Paid Internships

For many law students, especially during summer periods, the internship experience is often referred to as a summer associate. These positions are almost always paid. Major law firms, such as those participating in standout programs, typically offer significant financial compensation to their summer associates.

For example, the top ten law firms have been known to pay their summer interns an average of $4,000 per week during the summer months. This is a substantial amount that reflects both the prestige of working with large legal organizations and the high level of ambition and potential on display among these students.

Government Internships

For legal interns working in government organizations, the situation is different. Generally, they are compensated. The exact amount can vary, but it usually covers the basic living expenses and possibly more, depending on the government entity involved. This type of internship is often designed to provide both practical experience and a financial safety net for students.

Unpaid Internships

However, it is crucial to note that not all law internships are paid. Some law firms and organizations still offer unpaid internships, particularly in smaller or less prestigious firms. In such cases, the main benefit is gaining invaluable experience and networking opportunities rather than financial compensation.

For instance, at some law firms, interns can be paid but are also seen as part of the team, performing tasks and contributing to the firm's operations. In contrast, there have been instances where an intern may be unpaid but can obtain school credit as part of the program. One notable example is a student who, after an unpaid internship, received school credit without being permitted to be paid.

Firm-Specific Payment Scales

The payment for law internships can vary significantly based on the size and type of the law firm. Larger firms, often referred to as BigLaw, tend to offer higher wages for their summer associates. As mentioned, the top ten firms usually pay $4,000 per week to their summer interns.

However, mid-sized and smaller firms generally offer less in terms of direct compensation. Despite this, the experience and the benefits provided, such as luxurious experiences like opulent lunches, dinners, concerts, and other entertainment, make up for the lack of direct pay. These internships are designed to be both educational and enjoyable.

Additionally, it's important to consider that the payment for summer interns is often tied to the starting salary for first-year associates. For example, a law firm that pays its first-year associates $120,000 typically pays its summer interns around $2,400 per week.

Conclusion

In summary, whether law internships are paid can vary widely depending on the organization and the context in which the internship is offered. While some high-profile firms pay generously, others may not compensate interns directly but provide invaluable experiences and opportunities. Understanding these nuances is crucial for any law student seeking to enter the professional world.