Suit Up for the Future High School Summer Legal Institute and Intern Program
Being a lawyer can be one of the most rewarding professions. Lawyers are an important part of history and every community. Lawyers were instrumental in the founding of our nation and played a major role in drafting the governing documents that still shape our government, our laws, and our way of life. Lawyers have played major roles within every civil movement that has occurred within our country, such as the Civil Rights Movement and the Women's Movements. Lawyers often make the best problem solvers and the best leaders because of the critical thinking and analytical skills honed and polished in law school and within practice.
But what does it take to be a lawyer? Becoming a lawyer takes time, determination, and resources. Find out whether being a lawyer is the right path for you by hearing from lawyers who are thriving within the profession and enjoying it and by reading about prominent lawyers and the profession. The LSBA's brochure is a good starting point.
The Louisiana State Bar Association in partnership with the Louisiana Law Schools and Just the Beginning hosts an annual internship program. This program is available to incoming high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates who are interested in the legal profession. Students participate in a three-week legal institute, during which they attend an abridged law school session, field trips to law schools and courts, and an internship consisting of shadowing at area law offices and courts. Students provide their own transportation and housing. Over the course of the three-week program, students will be introduced to lawyers, legal documents, and the legal system all designed to assist them in pondering one important question, “Do I really want to be a lawyer?”
Local and Specialty Bar Programs
The Federal Bar Association New Orleans Chapter hosts an annual Justice Camp for students entering the 9th and 10th grade. The program is traditionally held mid-summer at the United States Eastern District of Louisiana Courthouse. This free camp offers the opportunity to learn from judges, lawyers, and federal law enforcement agents in the federal courthouse. The curriculum includes guest speakers, classroom lectures, videos, observations of criminal and civil proceedings, and culminates with a mock trial.
Please click here for more information.