Spring 2026 Legal Internship for Law Students with the New York Unified Court System

Legal internships in the New York State Courts are programs for law students to gain experience in public service. Interns research and analyze legal issues and are responsible for drafting orders, proofreading opinions, verifying citations, preparing jury charges, and verdict forms. The internship program provides hands-on experience, professional development, and opportunities to work on projects that promote access to justice. Legal Interns, appointed in the Civil Term by Justices of the Supreme Court, are assigned to Judges designated as Acting Supreme Court Justices. This internship position is assigned to Hon. Mary Lynn Nicolas-Brewster, Supreme Court Justice in Bronx County Supreme Court – Civil Term.

This is an unpaid, in-person, eight-week legal internship program for law students interested in becoming a judge or public interest attorney. Interns are expected to participate for 12 hours weekly. Legal interns will receive rare opportunities to develop legal research, oral advocacy, and writing skills. Additional features of the program include weekly lunch-and-learn sessions with attorneys and judges across practice areas, individualized mentorship, and practical advice for law school success. The Internship program is designed to be a pipeline program for law students interested in careers in the courts and public service. 

The in-person legal internship will be hosted from February 16, 2026, through April 10, 2026 (internship location – Bronx Supreme Court – Civil Term, 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York). The application deadline is January 9, 2026.  

Interested students should email: BXSUPCIV-IA11@NYCOURTS.GOV.

  • The subject line should be “Legal Internship – Spring 2026″  
  • You must include the following documents as one attachment: 
    • A cover letter addressed to Hon. Mary Lynn Nicolas-Brewster, Acting Supreme Court Justice, Bronx  Supreme Court, Civil Term.
    • Please highlight previous public service work or work involving equal justice issues.
  • Your resume.
  •  A writing sample – please respond to the essay prompt below:  
    • ESSAY PROMPT: In this personal injury action involving a motor vehicle accident, Plaintiff has failed  to provide responses to discovery demands and Defendant ABC Holding has moved for an order  dismissing the action in accordance with the Court’s prior April 10, 2025 order. That self-executing  order granted dismissal of Plaintiff’s complaint unless within sixty (60) days of the order, Plaintiff  provided responses to Defendant ABC Holding’s discovery demands. The Court directed dismissal of  Plaintiff’s complaint, pursuant to CPLR 3126, if there was a failure to comply with its Order. Plaintiff  failed to provide the discovery contemplated by the April 10, 2025 order and Defendant ABC Holding  has now moved to dismiss the complaint based on Plaintiff’s failure to comply with this Court’s self executing order of dismissal issued on April 10, 2025. Please draft the analysis and  conclusion/determination section of the proposed decision and order (please limit to 500 words  or less). Please limit your research to First Department case law. 

We look forward to your participation.

NAPABA Law Foundation | Your Fall Scholarship, Fellowship, and Moot Court Opportunities

We’re excited to share new opportunities for law students and future leaders this fall. From scholarships and fellowships to the annual Thomas Tang Moot Court Competition, there are many ways to advance your legal journey and deepen your connection to the AANHPI community. Explore the details below and be sure to mark your calendars for key deadlines.

Scholarships

This fall, you can apply for four scholarships through one application, ranging from $2,500–$7,500.

  • NLF Scholarship – $5,000; based on academic achievement, financial need, leadership, and service to the AANHPI community
  • NLF Presidential Scholarship – Two awards of $7,500; selected by the NAPABA President for outstanding leadership
  • The Low Family Scholarship – $2,500; for demonstrated leadership and/or community service
  • LimNexus Scholarship – $2,500 awarded to one student

Community Law Fellowship

The NAPABA Law Foundation Community Law Fellowship addresses the critical need for public interest attorneys serving AANHPI communities.

This two-year fellowship (September 2026–August 2028) offers:

  • $60,000 annual salary + $10,000 completion bonus
  • Employment, health, and fringe benefits through the Host Organization
  • Substantive legal experience at a nonprofit, national, or community-based organization

Want feedback on your project before the application is due? Submit a one-page Prospectus by Monday, December 1, by 5 pm ET, for feedback from the selection committee.

Judge Thomas Tang and Dr. Pearl Tang Moot Court (TTMC) Competition

Registration for the 2025 Judge Thomas Tang and Dr. Pearl Tang Moot Court Competition is now open! This annual competition fosters crucial advocacy skills among law students nationwide. This year’s topic is Artificial Intelligence.

Timeline:

  • Registration Closes: September 10, 2025
  • Brief Submission Deadline: October 3, 2025
  • Regional Rounds:
    • In-Person: October 17, U.S. Court of International Trade, NYC (12 teams max, first come)
    • Virtual: October 18 (assigned once in-person fills)
  • Nationals: November 7–8, 2025, at the NAPABA Convention in Denver, CO

NLF awards the top winners in brief writing and oral advocacy at the Regional Competitions. Up to $10,000 in scholarships are given to the top winners at the National Competition.

The registration fee is $500 per unsponsored team (self-funded by students) and $850 per sponsored team (funded by law school or affiliates). Local NAPABA Affiliates and National Associates are encouraged to sponsor teams.

 NAPABA Committees & Networks | 2025 Co-Chair Applications are Open

Lead and Inspire:
Become a NAPABA Committee or Network Co-Chair

Deadline: September 12, 2025

NAPABA’s committees and networks are vibrant, peer-led communities that connect members through shared practice areas, professional interests, and lived experiences. Committees focus on substantive legal topics and advocacy priorities such as labor & employment law, civil rights, and emerging technologies. Networks bring together members with common career paths or life experiences—such as in-house counsel, military service, or solo practice. These groups foster knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and leadership development.

Serving as a co-chair is a meaningful opportunity to:

  • Lead within a respected national bar association
  • Develop and showcase your leadership and subject-matter expertise
  • Build lasting relationships with colleagues across the country
  • Shape impactful programs, events, and initiatives that align with NAPABA’s strategic goals

If you are ready to take on a leadership role within NAPABA, we invite you to apply for open 2025 Committee and Network Co-Chair Positions.

Eligibility Criteria

Ideal co-chair candidates will:

  • Bring relevant personal or professional experience to the committee or network’s focus
  • Show a clear commitment to NAPABA’s mission, especially in leadership development
  • Be a NAPABA or NAPABA affiliate member in good standing
  • Commit to serving a six-year term

Application Requirements

Please submit the following materials as a single PDF:

  • Resume or CV highlighting relevant experience
  • Statement of Interest demonstrating the following:
    • Your leadership experience in NAPABA, local NAPABA affiliates, or related organizations
    • Your commitment to integrity and professional excellence
    • Additional relevant experience not included in your resume
  • Professional Bio (a law firm or company profile is acceptable)

2025 Committees and Networks with Co-Chair Vacancies

  • Bankruptcy & Restructuring Committee
  • Cannabis/CBD/Hemp Law & Policy Committee
  • Civil Rights Committee
  • Dispute Resolution Committee
  • Energy, Environment & Sustainability Committee
  • Financial Services Network
  • Government Enforcement & Compliance Committee
  • Health Law Committee
  • Immigration Committee
  • In House Counsel Network
  • Intellectual Property Committee
  • International Law Committee
  • Labor & Employment Committee
  • Law School Professors and Administrators Network
  • LGBTQ Network
  • Litigation Committee
  • Mass Torts & Class Actions Committee
  • Military & Veterans Network
  • Partners Network
  • Pro Bono & Community Service Committee
  • Public Sector Network
  • Solo & Small Firm Network
  • Women’s Leadership Network
  • Young Lawyers Network

Questions?

Reach out to us at membership@napaba.org.

NAPABA 2025 ADR Institute & Prospective Partners Program Application Deadline Extended

NAPABA has extended the deadline to apply for two of the organization’s impactful, member-exclusive programs — the ADR Institute and the Prospective Partners Program (PPP). You now have until Wednesday, July 16, 2025, to submit your application.

Whether you’re looking to grow your career in Alternative Dispute Resolution or take that final step toward law firm partnership, these programs are designed to equip you with the skills, mentorship, and connections you need to succeed.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Institute

A multi-day hands-on training available to members who are interested in pursuing a career in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). This program aims to diversify the pool of mediators and arbitrators in the United States and to increase the use of mediation and arbitration by those who attend the training.

Prospective Partners Program (PPP)

Designed to increase the number of NAPABA attorney member partners at major law firms, this program provides 10 senior associates on the precipice of partnership with the opportunity to practice their pitch and receive immediate feedback from senior in-house counsel.

Note: Both programs take place at the 2025 NAPABA Convention in Denver and require Convention registration.

Federal Judicial Internships Available

The Honorable Dora L. Irizarry, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of New York, is accepting applications for Fall 2025 internships.

Qualifications:

  • Must be a rising second or third year law student.
  • Must have good grades.
  • Must have good research, writing, and analytical skills, although participation in Law Review or a Journal is not a prerequisite.
  • Military and/or other life/career experience is a plus.

Interested law students should forward their application package in PDF format as a single document via email to irizarry_chambers@nyed.uscourts.gov.

Application package must include:

  • One-page cover letter briefly describing why you are interested in a
    legal career and why you are interested in an internship with Judge Irizarry specifically.
  • Resume.
  • Official law school transcript.
  • One recent writing sample no longer than 10 pages, double spaced. Journal or research articles will not be accepted.
  • Two to three letters of recommendation.

The deadline for receipt of materials is August 1, 2025.

Please note that, while these are not paid internships, the Judge will participate in any appropriate sponsored program that provides academic credit or stipends for interns.

If you have questions, please contact chambers at: 718-613-2150.

Applications Open: 2025 ADR Institute & Prospective Partners Program

NAPABA programs are designed to accelerate your career growth and provide opportunities to build relationships with mentors and peers — and two of these member-exclusive programs are now accepting applications.  

ADR INSTITUTE

The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Institute is a multi-day career and skills development program designed to provide a broad overview and hands-on training for those interested in pursuing a career in the in-demand ADR field. Whether you’re looking to integrate ADR into your current legal practice or aiming to become a full-time mediator or arbitrator, this program is for you.

Led by the NAPABA Dispute Resolution Committee and featuring instruction from ADR thought leaders and guidance from top organizations like JAMS, AAA, and CPR, the Institute offers:

  • Foundational and advanced ADR training
  • Mentorship and insights from leading neutrals
  • Networking with professionals committed to advancing the field
  • A potential boost for those interested in becoming an ADR provider

Deadline to Apply: July 9, 2025


PROSPECTIVE PARTNERS PROGRAM

This program is a unique opportunity for senior associates and of counsel attorneys who are on the cusp of partnership. Now in its fourteenth year, PPP aims to increase the number of NAPABA member partners at major law firms through strategic mentorship, introductions, and relationship building. Through this program, participants:

  • Pitch to real in-house counsel and receive immediate feedback to improve their skills
  • Are paired with law firm partner mentors
  • Build lasting connections that support career advancement and business development

Over 80% of past participants now hold leadership roles in law firms, companies, and throughout government. This is a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to practice and grow.

Deadline to Apply: July 9, 2025

Note: Registration for the NAPABA Convention is required to participate in both programs.

Federal Public Defender Vacancy – Extension of application period until June 13, 2025

The United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit invites applications from qualified candidates for the position of Federal Public Defender for the Northern District of New York.

The term of office is four years, with potential for appointment to successive terms. If you applied earlier, there is no need to re-submit your application. The extension deadline to submit an application is June 13, 2025.

For announcement, please click here. For application, please click here.

Enter the Our History Our Voice Video Contest

DEADLINE EXTENDED | Submit by April 30, 2025

You can’t rush art so the deadline has been extended for the “Our History, Our Voice” Video Contest for Middle and High School Students across the United States. All submissions must be received by 11:59 PM EST on April 30, 2025.

This is a joint project of the Center on Asian Americans and the Law at Fordham Law School, the AAPI Crime Victims and Education Fund, and NAPABA. Participants will introduce and highlight the impact of one case from the list of cases in a thoughtful and creative way that will bring attention to this event in Asian American legal history.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Participants need to be between the ages of 13 and 18 and currently enrolled in middle school or high school.
  • There is a limit of one (1) entry per person, per case.
  • Submit by: April 30, 11:59 PM EST


Please share the link for the contest landing page broadly to all of your circles, most especially those involving middle and high school aged children. Our stories need to be told, and then passed along and retold, most especially by young people.

2025 NAPABA Convention Call for Programs

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2025 NAPABA Convention Call for Programs

Deadline to Submit: March 14, 2025 at 8:00 pm ET

Beyond our outstanding CLE sessions, the NAPABA Convention offers specialty programming designed to provide hands-on, in-depth learning from top experts. These immersive workshops go beyond the basics, equipping participants with practical skills and actionable insights to advance their careers.

We’re seeking proposals for these dynamic specialty tracks:

  • International Law Symposium – Dive into global legal topics like IP, national security, and dispute resolution with diplomats, judges, and business leaders. Presented by the International Law Committee on Thursday.
  • Young Lawyers Workshop – Designed for early to mid-career attorneys, tackling real-world challenges like work-life balance and career growth. Presented by the Young Lawyers Network on Thursday.
  • Solo & Small Firm Boot Camp – Tailored for solo and small firm practitioners, covering business development, firm expansion, and legal strategy. Presented by the Solo & Small Firm Committee on Thursday.
  • Law Student Workshop – A two-day boot camp helping law students develop essential career skills through interactive sessions and expert-led discussions.

Have an idea? Submit a proposal and bring your expertise to Denver! Learn more, check out FAQs, and review a model proposal.

Columbia Law School’s Paralegal Pathways Initiative: Applications Now Open for Spring 2025

The Paralegal Pathways Initiative (PPI) at Columbia Law School is a 12-week training program designed to support formerly incarcerated individuals as they transition into meaningful careers within the legal field. Through skills-based legal training and professional mentorship, PPI empowers participants to develop valuable career and interview skills. Applications are now open for the upcoming Spring 2025 class, and PPI wants to extend this opportunity to as many potential applicants as possible.

Application Requirements: Interested individuals should submit an application online through this link. The application package includes:

  • Resume 
  • Personal statement (500 words)
  • Response to a writing prompt (350-450 words) 
  • Two references 
  • [Optional] Additional materials/information

PPI encourages applications from individuals from marginalized communities, including those based on race, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender, or disability.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • 18 years old or older
  • Ability to commute to New York City
  • Have been formerly incarcerated and at least one year post-release
  • Demonstrate a genuine interest in the legal field
  • Commit to attending an in-person two-hour class one night a week for 12 weeks, and additional programming and workshops
  • Commit to contributing to a collaborative learning environment
  • Complete an interview

Application Deadline: Friday, November 15, 2024 

Contact Information: For more information, contact the PPI team at ppi@law.columbia.edu or follow @paralegalpathways_cls on Instagram. Please share this information with anyone who may be interested in applying.