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The Internship Program at UVM Student Legal Service

The internship program at UVM Student Legal Service is one of the oldest and most prestigious at the University. Founded in 1977, UVM SLS is one of the oldest Student Legal Services in the nation, and has operated continuously since its inception.

The office at SLS is staffed by 12-15 interns each year. Interns work closely with two attorneys from the prominent Burlington law firm of Blodgett, Watts, and Volk. Interns act as liaisons between the attorneys and SLS's clients, and seek to frame legal issues in a way clients can easily understand. They relay legal advice, set up meetings, conduct legal research, accompany clients to court and judicial hearings, and provide referral services. Interns work closely with the attorneys on each of their cases, and are obligated to be in the SLS office for a minimum of two hours each week, as well as attending a mandatory one-hour weekly meeting.

An internship such as the one offered at Student Legal Service is an extraordinary opportunity for an undergraduate. The chance to intern for two practicing attorneys can be an invaluable experience, certainly for those considering law school, but also for those who have not necessarily been exposed to the practice of law and are curious about it. It provides students with a worthwhile opportunity to learn more about their constitutional rights, civil liberties, and how our legal system works. Some of our interns do indeed go on to law school, however many also choose not to, and take with them the multifaceted skills they acquire in their time here.

Interns apply in the spring semester of each academic year. Applications are reviewed and the best qualified candidates are invited back for an interview. The application process is quite selective. Interns need strong interpersonal skills, and high aptitudes in written and oral work are a plus. No prior knowledge of the law is necessary.

Would you like to become involved with SLS?

If you are intereted in any of these subjects, or simply want to learn more about working in legal-related fields, then an internship at UVM Student Legal Service can be an invaluable experience. Interns receive experience in all aspects of legal work, ranging from client relations, to case-building, to legal research. Stop by our offices in the SGA office on the lower level of the Billings Student Center, or call us at (802) 656-4379 to learn more. You can also reach us by e-mail at legal@uvm.edu.

Student Legal Service has begun it's intern selection process for the 2005-2006 academic year. If you are interested in interning at SLS you can contact our office for more information.

View An Online Application:

The application is in Microsoft Word Format. Right click the link and select "Save link as..." Open it, print it, and fill it out.

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legal disclaimer:

Since Student Legal Services represents all students equally, we cannot assist in any cases involving a student with a claim against another student. We offer consultations and assistance, however SLS does not provide the same services a paid attorney would. If this is what you require we can refer you to a local attorney to fulfill these needs.

Page last modified: January 27, 2005 06:54 PM EST