The starting point for law students committed to advocacy and service is our Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Internship Program. Through a curriculum that encourages self-reflection, personal growth, and building a professional network, our internships provide law students with individualized guidance and valuable legal work experience that allows them to learn about the unique challenges faced by low-income and marginalized communities in Pennsylvania and prepares them to be thoughtful, compassionate advocates for justice.  
 

About our Program

Each summer, ten first- and second-year law students are offered placements at the legal aid organizations in our Network. Selected candidates will be awarded placements with legal aid organizations throughout our Network and paid a program stipend of $7,500.

The internship program kicks off with a two-day poverty law orientation training at our office in Harrisburg in May. The orientation serves as a crucial foundation for interns, equipping participants with a comprehensive understanding of various legal areas they will encounter throughout the next ten weeks. It also provides practical insights into networking, professionalism, and building essential attorney skillsets.

Following the orientation, participants will join their respective legal aid organizations, where they will have an opportunity to interact conduct initial client interviews, attend client meetings, and accompany mentors at hearings, trials, and administrative proceedings. Participants may also be asked to conduct factual investigation, legal research, and draft legal documents and memoranda.

At the conclusion of the program, participants are required to complete an essay about their experiences, which is compiled into a volume called the Drum Major Essay Collection. Each summer, these essays are presented at our Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Internship Reception. Held annually in July, the event is a time for celebration and inspiration as we reflect upon the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the impact of our interns' work. 
 

Our Legacy

For over three decades, PLAN, Inc.’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Summer Internship Program has stood as a beacon for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Born out of the collaborative efforts of the Pennsylvania Legal Services Black Caucus and members across our Network, we've proudly supported and shaped over 400 budding legal minds to better mirror and serve our client communities. 
 

How to Apply

Applications for the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Summer Internship Program are currently being accepted on a rolling basis. To apply, interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, transcript, and three (3) professional references to: PLAN, Inc.'s Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at MLKPrograms@palegalaid.net.  

To learn more about our program and to see highlights from our Class of 2023, check out the 2023 Martin Luther King, Jr. Internship Recognition Reception.