Apply for 2026 diversity judicial internship program by
April 6

Missouri law students can gain valuable, real-life experience through short-term summer judicial internship

The Missouri Bar is once again offering a summer internship program for current 1L and 2L law students at Missouri-based law schools who are in good standing and are committed to advancing diversity in the legal profession. Due to the internship's short-term duration and flexible timing, students do not have to stress about the opportunity conflicting with other summer work and/or internship opportunities.

This internship experience is designed to enrich the 2L and 3L law school experience and future opportunities in the law by matching the law student with an associate circuit or circuit judge who will provide an opportunity for the student to observe the justice system at work; meet judges, lawyers, clerks, and other legal professionals; and provide valuable exposure to the standards of professionalism within the legal industry.

How does it work?
The timing to complete the internship is flexible, with a goal of completing 80 hours between June and August 2026. Any specific schedule mutually agreed to by the judge and student (e.g., two concurrent 40-hour weeks; two 40-hour weeks separated as needed, 20-hour weeks over four weeks, etc.) is acceptable to fulfill the requirements.

While the goal is a total of 80 hours, internships with a shorter or longer total duration and/or a completion date later than August will be considered for approval on an individual basis.

How do I apply?
The application deadline is April 6, 2026, for a summer 2026 internship. Students can complete the application online here.

When will I know if I was accepted for an internship?
Eligible law students accepted for an internship will be notified and matched with a member of the judiciary by May 4, 2026.

What are the requirements and expectations of law students and judges in the internship program?
The student's notification of acceptance will include contact information for the sponsoring judge. The law student will be responsible for contacting the judge within 10 days of receiving acceptance notification to develop and finalize a mutually acceptable schedule for the internship.

All interns must complete a post-internship questionnaire/survey about the experience by September 2026.

Questions?
For more information, contact Elizabeth Reed, Missouri Bar talent engagement and inclusion director, at ereed@mobar.org or 573-635-4128.