Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Internship Program
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Internship Program is available to first- or second-year law students who are social justice oriented and desire an opportunity to make a difference. Qualified applicants are awarded placements with legal aid organizations throughout our Network and paid a program stipend of $7,500.
The internship program was established by the Pennsylvania Legal Services Black Caucus in 1991. It is an integral part of our commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within our organization and Network and to ensuring that all people are afforded the equity of being able to access justice regardless of their ability to pay. Over the last thirty years, our program has successfully grown with the care of several stewards to support more than 400 law students.
The internship begins with a two-day poverty law orientation training in May. During the ten-week program, interns engage with clients directly, participating in court and administrative hearings (for those certified) and conducting legal research and writing on cases under the supervision of experienced public interest attorneys. As a valued member of staff, interns are encouraged to participate in case strategy and contribute to ongoing case management.
The program also provides interns with an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and learn about the special challenges faced by low-income and marginalized communities. In turn, interns provide valuable legal services to the clients in the offices where they are placed.
Ten placements for the Summer Internship Program are available on an annual basis. Applications are now being accepted on a rolling basis.
To express interest in becoming a summer intern please submit a cover letter, resume, transcript, and three (3) professional references to
Arlene Marshall-Hockensmith, Esq.
Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network, Inc.
Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
amarshall-hockensmith@palegalaid.net.
2022 Martin Luther King, Jr. Internship Program Reception & 30th Anniversary Celebration
Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network, Inc. hosted a Recognition Reception for the 2022 class of Martin Luther King, Jr. Interns on July 27, 2022 from 6:00 PM-7:15 PM. The event also served as a 30th Anniversary Celebration of the MLK, Jr. Internship Program.
Featured Speaker for the event was Pennsylvania State Representative Patty Kim, 103rd District.
A recording of the Recognition Reception and Celebration can be viewed above.