Summer Associates Program 2024 (Law School Students)

Neighborhood Legal Services (NLS) welcomes student volunteers to join our team throughout the year. We encourage law students to apply for opportunities at our various offices and areas of practice. Our organization also actively participates in externship programs and pro bono scholarship programs, such as the Buffalo Public Interest Law Program at UB Law School.

Internship:

Neighborhood Legal Services is currently accepting applications for Legal Internships. This 10-week program serves clients in Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Wyoming, and Orleans counties. As a free civil legal services firm, we specialize in a wide range of legal areas, including domestic violence prevention, divorce, eviction prevention, health insurance access, disability, SNAP, shelter, and other government benefits. This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience in public interest law while making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Requirements:

NLS holds our student volunteers to the same standards as our staff members. We require students to treat their internship, externship, or volunteer opportunity as a professional commitment. This includes punctuality, professional attire, and reliability. Students are expected to maintain a professional demeanor when interacting with staff, clients, and court personnel.

Essential Functions

The Legal Intern performs a wide range of duties, including the following:

• Assist Staff Attorneys with the preparation of legal documents for trials, hearings, and depositions;
• Attend trials, hearings, depositions, and related events;
• Provide critical research and feedback to the attorneys for any case, study, or assigned tasks;
• Proofread and provide content suggestions for legal documentation;
• Provide general legal support to the program attorneys, plus other duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited law school;
• Commitment to the mission and vision of NLS
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word/Excel/Outlook/PowerPoint);
• Ability to write and present in a polished and professional manner;
• Strong communication skills;
• Must have the highest standard of organization and attention to detail;
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities (preferred);
• Passionate about issues affecting individuals with disabilities (preferred);
• Excellent legal research skills;
• Able to work independently;
• Ability to prioritize and manage projects and tasks to meet deadlines;

Student Practice Orders:

NLS typically applies for student practice orders for law students who have completed a minimum of two (2) semesters of law school and are volunteering for a semester or during the summer. The student practice order enables students to appear in court under the supervision of an NLS attorney, providing them with valuable courtroom experience and the opportunity to advocate on behalf of our clients.

Join our team and help us make a positive impact on the lives of those in need while building your legal career. Apply today to be part of our dedicated and passionate team at Neighborhood Legal Services.

Neighborhood Legal Services is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background and experiences.

**Please note this opening is for our Batavia office**