AOC Internship For Law Clerk (Hiring 2025)

For law students eager to gain hands-on experience while building a foundation for a career in public service, the Architect of the Capitol (AOC) offers an exciting Summer Internship Program. This unique opportunity provides students and recent graduates with the chance to work on Capitol Hill, collaborate with experienced professionals, and explore meaningful careers in the heart of the federal government. If you’re looking for internships that deliver practical legal training and career-building opportunities, this program is worth considering.

Program Overview:

The AOC’s Summer Internship Program is specifically designed for 1st- and 2nd-year law students interested in serving as Law Clerks in the Office of General Counsel (OGC). The program provides a dynamic setting to work on real-world legal matters and engage in activities that prepare you for public service roles.

Key Duties of Law Clerks:

• Conducting in-depth legal research and drafting memoranda.
• Preparing pretrial discovery, motions, and briefs.
• Assisting with direct and cross-examination of witnesses.
• Drafting Memoranda of Understanding and other legal documents.
• Supporting special projects and performing administrative tasks.

This hands-on experience is an unmatched opportunity to learn the nuances of federal law practice while contributing directly to meaningful legal work on Capitol Hill.

Requirements

To qualify for the AOC Summer Internship Program, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

• Be a U.S. Citizen.
• Be currently enrolled as a 1st- or 2nd-year law student in an accredited law school program.
• Be in good academic standing with strong research and writing skills.
• Be at least 16 years old by June 30, 2025.

Additionally, participation in this program is limited to a total of three years. Candidates cannot surpass three years collectively or consecutively if applying for multiple summers.

Salary and Benefits

While the Law Clerk positions in the AOC’s Summer Internship Program are unpaid, they offer invaluable non-monetary benefits, including:

• Immersion in the high-energy world of public service and Capitol Hill.
• Mentorship from seasoned legal professionals at the Office of General Counsel.
• Networking opportunities within the federal law and litigation community.
• Enhancement of your resume with real-world legal experience.

The program may not include monetary compensation, but the career-ready skills and connections you gain make this internship an investment in your future.

Responsibilities

Being an AOC Law Clerk comes with a range of challenging and rewarding responsibilities designed to prepare you for a legal career. You’ll be exposed to critical areas of federal law and litigation while honing essential skills. Interns will:

• Draft legal documents, including motions, briefs, and memoranda.
• Research complex legal issues across multiple practices, including government law, litigation, and administrative law.
• Gain experience in courtroom preparation and trial advocacy.
• Collaborate on drafting internal policies and agreements.
• Support the Office of General Counsel in the administration of Capitol-related projects.

Each intern will have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to projects that impact the government and, by extension, citizens across the country.

Skills and Experience

The AOC Summer Internship Program is seeking law students with a passion for public service and a demonstrated ability to thrive in a professional legal environment. Ideal candidates will possess:

• Research proficiency and attention to detail, allowing for thorough and accurate work.
• Strong writing skills that are essential for preparing legal documents and concise briefs.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively, as much of the work involves teamwork.
• A keen interest in federal law, government, and litigation.

Interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities are also key to succeeding in this role, as interns are expected to work closely with senior attorneys and participate in team-based projects.

How to Apply

Applying for the AOC Summer Internship Program is straightforward. Here’s how to get started:

1. Prepare the Required Documents:

   • Resume: Highlight your academic background, prior internships, and any legal experience or interests.
   • Proof of Enrollment: Submit a letter or transcript verifying your current law school enrollment.
   • Responses to Job-Related Questions: These should detail your skills and qualifications as outlined in the job posting.

2. Meet Drug Testing and Background Check Requirements:
   Selected candidates will need to pass a pre-employment drug test and a background check conducted by the U.S. Capitol Police. Drug testing is a mandatory step for anyone appointed to the role.

3. Complete the Online Application:
   All applications must be submitted online via the AOC’s official portal. If you encounter technical difficulties during the job application process or lack access to a computer, reach out to the Human Resources Specialist listed in the job announcement for assistance.

4. Submit Before Deadlines:
   While the job posting does not list specific deadlines, early application submission ensures consideration while spots remain available.

Closing Thoughts

The Summer Internship Program at the Architect of the Capitol is more than just an internship—it’s a stepping stone to a fulfilling legal career. Whether you’re interested in government law, litigation, or administrative practice, this opportunity gives you a solid foundation to build from. For students serious about exploring career opportunities in public service, the AOC’s program is a gateway to skills, experience, and professional connections that could shape your future.

Take your first step toward a career on Capitol Hill by applying today. Opportunities like this don’t come around often—be part of something impactful and elevate your career!

Submite Law Clerk Internship Application