Securing a legal internship can be a competitive process, but a well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd.
Your cover letter is your opportunity to showcase your qualifications, demonstrate your passion for the law, and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the internship.
Sample Cover Letters for Legal Internship
In this article, we’ll provide you with 15 sample cover letters tailored for various legal internship positions, giving you the inspiration and guidance you need to create a compelling cover letter of your own.
1. Environmental Law Internship
Subject: Application for Environmental Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Environmental Law Internship position at your prestigious firm. As a second-year law student with a passion for environmental conservation and a keen interest in the legal aspects of environmental protection, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in environmental law and policy. I have participated in moot court competitions focused on environmental issues and have volunteered with local organizations to raise awareness about the importance of environmental stewardship. I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills to real-world cases and contribute to your firm’s mission of protecting the environment through legal action.
I am impressed by your firm’s track record of successful litigation in environmental law cases and your commitment to advocating for sustainable practices. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and gain hands-on experience in this field.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Criminal Law Internship
Subject: Application for Criminal Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Criminal Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in criminal justice, I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for this role.
Throughout my law school career, I have focused on developing my knowledge and expertise in criminal law. I have taken courses in criminal procedure, evidence, and trial advocacy, and have participated in mock trial competitions. Additionally, I have interned with the public defender’s office, where I gained valuable experience working with clients and assisting attorneys in case preparation.
I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal representation to clients in criminal cases. I admire your commitment to ensuring that every individual receives a fair trial and that their rights are protected throughout the legal process. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Intellectual Property Law Internship
Subject: Application for Intellectual Property Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Intellectual Property Law Internship position at your distinguished law firm. As a second-year law student with a background in computer science and a passion for protecting creative works and innovations, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have developed a strong foundation in intellectual property law. I have taken courses in patent law, trademark law, and copyright law, and have participated in moot court competitions focused on intellectual property issues. Additionally, my technical background has given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in this field.
I am impressed by your firm’s track record of representing clients in high-stakes intellectual property cases and your commitment to staying at the forefront of this rapidly evolving area of law. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of protecting the rights of creators and innovators.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Corporate Law Internship
Subject: Application for Corporate Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Corporate Law Internship position at your prestigious law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in business and transactional law, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in corporate law and business transactions. I have taken courses in mergers and acquisitions, securities regulation, and contract drafting, and have participated in negotiation competitions. Additionally, I have interned with a startup company, where I gained hands-on experience in drafting contracts and assisting with corporate governance matters.
I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to clients in a wide range of industries. I admire your commitment to helping businesses navigate complex legal issues and achieve their strategic objectives. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
5. Public Interest Law Internship
Subject: Application for Public Interest Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Public Interest Law Internship position at your esteemed organization. As a second-year law student with a passion for social justice and a commitment to serving underrepresented communities, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a deep understanding of the challenges facing marginalized communities and the role that legal advocacy can play in addressing these issues. I have participated in pro bono clinics, where I provided legal assistance to low-income clients, and have volunteered with organizations that work to promote racial and economic justice.
I am impressed by your organization’s track record of advocating for the rights of underserved communities and your commitment to using the law as a tool for social change. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your mission of advancing justice and equality.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
6. Immigration Law Internship
Subject: Application for Immigration Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Immigration Law Internship position at your respected law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in immigration law and a commitment to serving immigrant communities, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the complexities of immigration law and the challenges facing immigrant communities. I have taken courses in asylum law, family-based immigration, and deportation defense, and have participated in an immigration law clinic where I assisted clients with a range of immigration matters.
I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal services to immigrants and their families. I admire your commitment to advocating for the rights of immigrants and helping them navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
7. Family Law Internship
Subject: Application for Family Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Family Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a second-year law student with a strong interest in family law and a passion for helping families in crisis, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in family law and dispute resolution. I have taken courses in child custody, divorce, and domestic violence, and have participated in mediation training. Additionally, I have volunteered with a local domestic violence shelter, where I provided legal information and support to survivors.
I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing compassionate and effective legal services to clients going through difficult family transitions. I admire your commitment to helping families resolve conflicts and achieve positive outcomes for all parties involved. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your mission of serving families in need.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
8. Labor and Employment Law Internship
Subject: Application for Labor and Employment Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Labor and Employment Law Internship position at your distinguished law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in workers’ rights and a commitment to promoting fair and equitable workplaces, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues facing workers and the role that attorneys can play in advocating for their rights. I have taken courses in employment discrimination, wage and hour law, and labor law, and have participated in a workers’ rights clinic where I assisted clients with a range of employment-related matters.
I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to employees and unions. I admire your commitment to fighting for workers’ rights and holding employers accountable for unlawful practices. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
9. Tax Law Internship
Subject: Application for Tax Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Tax Law Internship position at your prestigious law firm. As a second-year law student with a background in accounting and a passion for tax law, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in tax law and policy. I have taken courses in federal income taxation, corporate taxation, and international tax law, and have participated in a volunteer income tax assistance program where I helped low-income individuals prepare their tax returns.
I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality tax planning and controversy services to clients in a wide range of industries. I admire your commitment to staying at the forefront of this complex and ever-changing area of law. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of helping clients navigate the tax code.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
10. Real Estate Law Internship
Subject: Application for Real Estate Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Real Estate Law Internship position at your respected law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in real estate transactions and a passion for helping clients achieve their goals, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues involved in real estate transactions and the role that attorneys play in facilitating these deals. I have taken courses in property law, real estate finance, and land use regulation, and have participated in a real estate clinic where I assisted clients with a range of matters, including lease negotiations and property acquisitions.
I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to clients in the real estate industry. I admire your commitment to helping clients navigate complex transactions and achieve their business objectives. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
11. Healthcare Law Internship
Subject: Application for Healthcare Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Healthcare Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a second-year law student with a background in public health and a passion for improving access to healthcare, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in healthcare law and policy. I have taken courses in health law, bioethics, and Medicare and Medicaid law, and have participated in a health law society where I organized events and discussions on current issues in healthcare policy.
I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal services to clients in the healthcare industry. I admire your commitment to helping healthcare providers navigate complex regulatory issues and ensure compliance with state and federal laws. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of improving the healthcare system.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
12. Bankruptcy Law Internship
Subject: Application for Bankruptcy Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Bankruptcy Law Internship position at your distinguished law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in debtor-creditor law and a passion for helping individuals and businesses in financial distress, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Through my coursework and clinical experience, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues involved in bankruptcy proceedings and the role that attorneys play in helping clients achieve a fresh start. I have taken courses in bankruptcy law, secured transactions, and consumer protection law, and have participated in a bankruptcy clinic where I assisted clients with a range of matters, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings.
I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing compassionate and effective legal services to clients facing financial hardship. I admire your commitment to helping clients understand their options and achieve the best possible outcome for their situation. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
13. Civil Litigation Internship
Subject: Application for Civil Litigation Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Civil Litigation Internship position at your prestigious law firm. As a second-year law student with a passion for advocacy and a keen interest in trial practice, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in civil procedure and trial advocacy. I have taken courses in evidence, pretrial litigation, and alternative dispute resolution, and have participated in mock trial competitions where I honed my skills in oral argument and witness examination.
I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal representation to clients in a wide range of civil matters. I admire your commitment to zealous advocacy and your track record of success in the courtroom. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced litigators and contribute to your firm’s mission of achieving the best possible outcomes for your clients.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
14. Entertainment Law Internship
Subject: Application for Entertainment Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Entertainment Law Internship position at your respected law firm. As a third-year law student with a strong interest in the entertainment industry and a passion for protecting the rights of artists and creators, I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a deep understanding of the legal issues facing the entertainment industry and the role that attorneys play in advocating for their clients. I have taken courses in copyright law, trademark law, and music law, and have participated in an entertainment law society where I organized events and discussions on current issues in the industry.
I am drawn to your firm’s reputation for providing high-quality legal services to clients in the entertainment industry. I admire your commitment to helping artists and creators protect their intellectual property and navigate complex business deals. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from your experienced attorneys.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
15. Sports Law Internship
Subject: Application for Sports Law Internship
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Sports Law Internship position at your esteemed law firm. As a second-year law student with a strong interest in the business and legal aspects of sports, I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role.
Through my coursework and extracurricular activities, I have gained a solid foundation in sports law and the unique challenges facing the sports industry. I have taken courses in sports law, antitrust law, and labor law, and have participated in a sports law clinic where I assisted clients with a range of matters, including player contracts and sponsorship agreements.
I am impressed by your firm’s reputation for providing exceptional legal services to clients in the sports industry, including professional teams, leagues, and athletes. I admire your commitment to helping clients navigate complex legal issues and achieve their business objectives in this highly competitive and dynamic industry. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from your experienced attorneys and contribute to your firm’s mission of serving clients at the intersection of sports and law.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and writing sample for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Crafting a compelling cover letter is an essential step in securing a legal internship.
By highlighting your relevant skills, experiences, and interests, and demonstrating your passion for the specific area of law, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing your dream internship.
Use these sample cover letters as a starting point, but be sure to tailor your letter to the specific position and firm to which you are applying.
With a strong cover letter and a commitment to excellence, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in the legal profession.