Opportunities and Expectations for Legal Internships at Solo/Small Law Firms as a 1L

As a prospective 1L intern at a solo or small law firm, you are undoubtedly excited about the prospect of gaining hands-on experience in the legal field. However, one of the most common questions that 1L students often grapple with is, 'how many hours should I expect to work or seek to do over the summer for an internship at a solo or small law firm?'

Introduction to Legal Internships for 1Ls

It's no secret that internships during your legal studies are invaluable experiences. These opportunities not only give you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to real-life scenarios but also allow you to build a foundation for your future career as a lawyer. But what if you only have an internship opportunity at a solo or small law firm? What are your expectations, and how many hours should you dedicate to it?

Setting Realistic Expectations

First and foremost, it's important to remember that every internship is unique. For example, consider the case of an esteemed US Attorney who recently retired. They emphasize that although not everyone is fortunate enough to secure an internship, if you do, you should take full advantage of the opportunity.

One significant aspect to highlight is the amount of time you should dedicate to this internship. The answer is simple: "as many hours as there are in a day." The underlying reason for this is straightforward: it's not just about meeting the minimum requirements but also about demonstrating your commitment, eagerness to learn, and potential to become a valuable asset to the firm after graduation. This mindset can significantly impact your chances of securing a job post-graduation and impressing the partners within the firm.

Common Hours for Legal Internships

Typically, the standard workload for a legal internship, whether at a clinic, a small firm, or a legal company, is around 40 hours per week. However, this can vary based on the firm's needs and workload. If the firm is very busy, they may require more than the standard 40 hours. On the other hand, firms aiming to maintain a healthy work-life balance for their interns and avoid overworking them may stick to the 40-hour mark.

A personal experience shared by the US Attorney highlights this variance. They worked during an internship with a small law firm, consisting of two partners who valued a work-life balance. Consequently, their work hours were more aligned with the standard 40-hour week. Meanwhile, during their second summer internship, they worked at the Federal Claims Court in D.C., where they conducted research and wrote six decisions for the judge. This internship, like all others they knew, involved 40-hour work weeks, which are also common in the Federal Circuit Court.

Benefiting from the Vitae of Your Work

Despite the seemingly tedious nature of tasks such as document preparation, file keeping, and research, these experiences are incredibly valuable. As a 1L, you often have to start from the bottom, handling the low-level work. While this might seem mundane, it is crucial for your professional development. These tasks will undoubtedly become more meaningful as you progress in your legal career, and you will appreciate the opportunity even more.

Conclusion and Advice

In summary, while the expectation for a legal internship may vary between firms, the general consensus is that 40 hours a week is the norm. This standard is established to balance the firm's needs with the well-being of the interns. It is important to note, however, that if you are working in a busier environment, you may have to put in more hours to meet the demands of the case load.

With that said, here are a couple of key takeaways that could significantly impact your internship experience and future career:

Volunteering to Help: Always volunteer for additional tasks, as this can help you stand out and make a positive impression on your supervisors. Maximize Your Time: Ensure you make the most of every hour you are at the firm. Even monotonous tasks can teach valuable legal skills. Find Your Passion: Look for an area of law and a city that align with your interests and long-term goals.

Finally, don't overlook the importance of financial planning. It's wise to max out your 401K, as retirement can come sooner than you think. Best of luck in your legal journey!