2026 Part-Time Summer Associate Program
About The Position
The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland (Legal Aid) is a non-profit law firm focused on a broad range of civil issues including consumer rights, disability, domestic violence, education, employment, family law, foreclosure, health, housing, immigration, public benefits, and tax. We are looking for law students who have a passion for public- interest work and want to focus on Legal Aid’s four northeast Ohio counties. The summer associate program is 11 weeks and is 100% in-person (no hybrid option). The part-time Associate program will be structured for those students who are working full-time and/or are part-time students. Summer associates will be assigned to work in one practice area and will have the opportunity to learn and experience the duties of a poverty law attorney. Generally, summer associates will interview clients, draft court pleadings, research relevant legal issues, attend and assist with administrative hearings or court proceedings, and gather and analyze evidence. They will observe oral arguments in a variety of courts. Legal Aid also has a focus on community education, outreach, and advocacy. In addition to their work in a specific practice area, summer associates may be assigned legal work for a project. The part-time Associate program will be structured around each selected student’s availability.
Requirements
- Legal Aid summer associate applicants should have completed their first or second year of law school prior to the summer of 2026.
- Special consideration is given to students with a demonstrated commitment to serving disadvantaged people and communities.
- If your resume does not reflect a commitment to public service due to personal financial constraints, please provide an explanation in your cover letter.
Nice To Haves
- Law students who speak Spanish and other languages are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Please indicate in your cover letter if you are working with a law school to receive course credit for this position.
Responsibilities
- Interview clients
- Draft court pleadings
- Research relevant legal issues
- Attend and assist with administrative hearings or court proceedings
- Gather and analyze evidence
- Observe oral arguments in a variety of courts
- Assigned legal work for a project
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
