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1L Internships Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

1L Internships information

What is a 1L internship?

1L internships are summer positions specifically designed for law students who have completed their first year (1L) of law school. These internships provide valuable hands-on legal experience, often in law firms, government agencies, nonprofits, or corporate legal departments. They help students apply what they've learned in class to real-world situations, build professional networks, and strengthen their resumes for future legal job opportunities. Many 1L internships are highly competitive and can be paid or unpaid, depending on the employer and sector.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1L intern?

To thrive as a 1L Intern, you need strong legal research and writing abilities, attention to detail, and a foundational understanding of legal principles, typically gained through your first year of law school. Familiarity with legal databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in Microsoft Office are commonly expected. Excellent communication, time management, and adaptability help interns stand out in fast-paced legal environments. These skills are crucial for producing quality work, meeting deadlines, and effectively contributing to legal teams during the internship.

What types of projects or tasks can a 1L intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a 1L intern, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks that introduce you to legal practice, such as conducting legal research, drafting memos, assisting with case preparation, and observing client meetings or court proceedings. While responsibilities may vary by employer, most 1L internships are structured to provide broad exposure to different areas of law and practical skills. You may also be assigned to work closely with associates or partners who can provide guidance and feedback, helping you build professional relationships and gain insights into legal processes. This hands-on experience is invaluable for clarifying your interests and developing competencies for your future legal career.

What is the difference between 1L Internships vs Summer Associate?

Aspect1L InternshipsSummer Associate
Required CredentialsCurrently enrolled in 1L law schoolTypically in 2L or 3L year of law school
Work EnvironmentShort-term, often in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agenciesIntensive, project-based work during summer months at law firms or legal organizations
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesPrimarily law firms, especially large firms during summer hiring

While both 1L Internships and Summer Associates provide legal work experience, 1L Internships are typically offered to first-year law students and focus on introductory exposure, whereas Summer Associates are for second- or third-year students and involve more advanced, project-based work. Both roles help build legal skills and network within the industry.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for 1L Internships jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most 1L Internships job openings:

Spring 2027 SEC Scholars Legal Program- RO (1L, 2L, 3L, or LL.M.) (Volunteer)

SEC.gov | Pathways: Internship Program

Denver, CO

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Do you want to perform volunteer legal operations work in a challenging yet professional environment? The SEC is actively recruiting for the Spring 2027 SEC Scholars Legal Program. The program targets currently enrolled JD and LL.M. students to participate in at least a ten-week unpaid program. This internship is not remote.Qualifications:Eligibility Requirements: In order to be eligible for this internship under the SEC Scholars Legal Program:
  • You must be accepted for enrollment or enrolled and seeking a JD or LL.M. at an accredited law school on at least a part-time basis* (as determined by the educational institution); AND
  • You must possess a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of a 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, or the equivalent.
You must continue to meet these eligibility requirements throughout the duration of your volunteer service under the SEC Scholars Legal Program.
*An applicant who is less than half time enrolled immediately prior to graduating may be considered a student for purposes of this Program.
NOTE:
  • STUDENT STATUS: You must maintain status as a law student during your volunteer service.
  • PROOF OF ENROLLMENT: You may provide proof of enrollment at the time of application; however, you must provide proof of enrollment at an accredited law school by the selection date.
  • ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: All eligibility requirements must be met by the selection date.
  • DEFINITION OF STUDENT: You must meet the definition of a "student" by the selection date in order to be eligible for this program.
Education:You will be required to provide transcripts or other documentation to support your educational claims. Documentation may be submitted at the time of application. All materials will be required upon selection.
See Required Documents section below. Qualifying education must have been obtained from an accredited college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs. For more information, click here.
Applicants may also find the following helpful:
National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) is an association of 19 credential evaluation services with admission standards and an enforced code of good practice.
Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE) is an association of 10 credential evaluation services with a board of advisors and an enforced code of ethics.
Employment Type: OTHER