OALJ Internship For Students Legal Volunteer (Online Application Form)

Are you a law student looking for a meaningful experience to sharpen your skills, gain valuable exposure to the federal government, and contribute to impactful legal work? The Office of Administrative Law Judges (OALJ) is looking for motivated law students to join their Summer/Fall 2025 Student Volunteer Program. This internship opportunity offers the chance to work directly with Administrative Law Judges, conducting research, drafting legal memoranda, and gaining a firsthand look at federal maritime law.

Whether you’re seeking new career opportunities or hoping to build a strong foundation in federal service, this program is an incredible chance to learn, grow, and make a difference.

Program Overview:

The Student Volunteer Trainee position allows law students to collaborate closely with Administrative Law Judges to gain hands-on experience in complex legal matters. Through this internship, you’ll develop essential skills in legal analysis, case management, and federal administrative procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

Interns’ assignments include but are not limited to:

• Research and Analysis: Conducting legal research and analyzing case decisions, rulings, and other materials.
• Drafting Legal Work: Preparing legal memoranda and drafting orders under the guidance of Administrative Law Judges.
• Case Review: Reviewing evidence and compiling relevant facts for use in hearings and case rulings.
• Proofreading: Cite-checking and proofreading legal documents for accuracy and compliance.
• Case Management: Assisting the office with procedural and case management needs.

This valuable experience will build your skills in legal writing, research, and advocacy.

Who Can Apply?

The OALJ Student Volunteer Program is open to law students currently enrolled at least half-time in an accredited educational institution and in good academic standing. Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria by the application deadline:

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a U.S. Citizen and at least 18 years old.
• Be actively enrolled in a law program during the internship period.
• Maintain good academic standing as defined by your institution.
• Provide proof of enrollment for the duration of the internship.
• Be eligible to work in-person or remotely as per program requirements.

Applicants cannot have graduated from law school before completing the internship unless they have proof of future enrollment in an advanced degree program.

Internship Duration and Schedule

Students selected for this summer internship program must be available to work full-time during the summer for at least 10 weeks, with a preference for 40 hours per week. Interns may continue into the fall semester on a part-time basis with flexible schedules (minimum of 5 hours per week).

Part-time fall hours allow students to balance coursework and professional development simultaneously.

Program Benefits

While this student volunteer position is unpaid, it offers several non-monetary benefits that are highly valuable to participants, including:

• Hands-on legal experience working with Administrative Law Judges.
• Mentorship from experienced professionals in federal maritime law.
• Professional development through exposure to real legal decisions and casework.
• Opportunity to earn course credit (as approved by your law school).
• Eligibility to receive a federal transit benefit for commuting expenses.

The program also provides a unique opportunity to build your professional network in the federal government and within the legal community.

Application Requirements and How to Apply

To apply for this internship, follow these steps for submitting your job application:

Prepare Your Documents

Applicants MUST submit the following:

1. Resume: Highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and legal interests.
2. Transcripts: Provide official or unofficial law school transcripts showing your enrollment status.
3. Proof of Enrollment: A document certifying your enrollment in a degree or certificate program at least half-time (e.g., tuition receipt, course schedule, or enrollment letter).

Submit Your Application

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until January 31, 2025, or until the program reaches capacity. Submit your materials in the format specified by the agency (check the USAJOBS announcement for details).

Optional: Include a cover letter explaining:

• Why you’re interested in the internship.
• Your preferred training and development focus areas.
• How the experience aligns with your career goals.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so it’s advisable to apply as early as possible.

What to Expect Next

Qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews as hiring decisions are made. Successful candidates must complete a background check and sign a Student Volunteer Service Agreement before beginning their internship.

For students approved for the internship, schedules will be finalized based on their availability, work location (in-person or remote), and academic commitments.

Launch Your Legal Career Today

The Office of Administrative Law Judges Internship provides a rare opportunity for law students to gain meaningful, hands-on legal experience in a federal setting. By joining this program, you’ll sharpen your skills, build professional connections, and contribute to work that has a national and international impact.

If you aspire to a career in law, public service, or federal administration, there’s no better place to start. Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career in federal law!

Submit OALJ Internship Application