Getting your foot in the door of a judicial internship starts with a strong cover letter. This document serves as your first impression and can make or break your chances of landing that coveted position. A well-crafted cover letter showcases your qualifications, passion for the legal field, and what makes you a perfect fit for the specific judge or court.
Let’s look at how successful applicants have approached this challenge. Each example below demonstrates different strengths and approaches, giving you ideas to adapt for your own unique situation and goals.
Sample Cover Letters for Judicial Internship
These fifteen sample cover letters will help you craft your own standout application.
1. The Traditional Approach
*123 Law Student Lane
New Haven, CT 06511
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Maria Rodriguez
United States District Court
Southern District of New York
500 Pearl Street
New York, NY 10007
Subject: Summer 2026 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Rodriguez:
I am a second-year student at Yale Law School writing to apply for a summer judicial internship in your chambers for Summer 2026. My academic background in constitutional law, combined with my previous experience as a research assistant for Professor James Thompson on federal procedure, has prepared me well for the rigorous legal analysis required in your chambers.
During my first year of law school, I ranked in the top 15% of my class and received the highest grade in my Legal Research and Writing course. My work as an editor for the Yale Law Journal has sharpened my writing skills and attention to detail. These qualities, along with my strong work ethic and passion for judicial processes, make me an excellent candidate for this internship.
Thank you for your consideration of my application. I have attached my resume, writing sample, and transcript as requested in the posting. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your chambers.
Respectfully submitted,
Sarah Johnson
Sarah Johnson
sarah.johnson@yale.edu
(203) 555-1234*
2. The Public Interest Focus
*450 Highland Avenue
Berkeley, CA 94708
April 22, 2025
The Honorable David Jackson
United States Court of Appeals
Ninth Circuit
95 Seventh Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
Subject: Application for Fall 2025 Judicial Internship
Dear Judge Jackson:
As a second-year student at Berkeley Law with a deep commitment to public interest law and civil rights, I am excited to apply for a judicial internship in your chambers for Fall 2025. Your reputation for thoughtful analysis in civil rights cases and your background as a public defender make your chambers particularly appealing to me.
My previous work at the East Bay Community Law Center allowed me to help low-income clients face housing discrimination issues. This experience taught me the real-world impact of judicial decisions on vulnerable communities. Additionally, my academic focus on constitutional law and civil procedure has provided me with the theoretical foundation to assist with the complex cases that come before your court.
I would be honored to bring my research abilities, writing skills, and passion for justice to your chambers. I have enclosed all requested application materials and am available for an interview at your convenience.
With appreciation,
Michael Okafor
Michael Okafor
mokafor@berkeley.edu
(510) 555-6789*
3. The Specialized Experience Approach
*1919 South Prairie Avenue
Chicago, IL 60616
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Linda Chen
Circuit Court of Cook County
Domestic Relations Division
50 West Washington Street
Chicago, IL 60602
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Chen:
I am writing to apply for a summer judicial internship in your chambers. As a second-year student at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law with specialized coursework in family law and a background working with domestic violence survivors, I am particularly interested in contributing to the work of the Domestic Relations Division.
My experience includes a year as a court advocate at Chicago Family Services, where I assisted clients with orders of protection and custody matters. This front-line experience has given me insight into the challenges facing families in crisis and the crucial role that thoughtful judicial decision-making plays in their lives. My strong academic performance in Family Law and Children and the Law courses has built upon this practical knowledge.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background could benefit your chambers. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Wu
Jennifer Wu
jwu2025@nlaw.northwestern.edu
(312) 555-3456*
4. The Clerkship-Focused Approach
*600 Forbes Avenue, Apt. 204
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Thomas Wilson
United States District Court
Western District of Pennsylvania
700 Grant Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Wilson:
I am a second-year student at Duquesne University School of Law applying for a summer judicial internship in your chambers. With a strong academic record and experience in legal research and writing, I am eager to apply my skills in the federal court setting. This internship would be an ideal stepping stone toward my goal of pursuing a federal clerkship after graduation.
My current role as a research assistant to Dean Rebecca Martin has honed my legal research abilities as we explore procedural due process questions. As a staff editor for the Duquesne Law Review, I have strengthened my citation skills and attention to detail. My Civil Procedure professor, Dr. Alan Kaufman, has agreed to serve as a reference regarding my analytical abilities and writing style.
Thank you for considering my application. I hope to have the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you further.
Respectfully,
Brandon Miller
Brandon Miller
bmiller@duq.edu
(412) 555-9876*
5. The Personal Connection Approach
*455 West 23rd Street, Apt. 7B
New York, NY 10011
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Robert Williams
New York State Supreme Court
60 Centre Street
New York, NY 10007
Subject: Fall 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Justice Williams:
After attending your guest lecture on judicial ethics at Columbia Law School last month, I was inspired to apply for a judicial internship in your chambers for Fall 2025. Your insights on balancing legal precedent with contemporary social considerations resonated deeply with my own approach to legal analysis.
As a second-year student focusing on litigation, I have maintained a 3.8 GPA while serving as a teaching assistant for the first-year Legal Practice Workshop. My summer experience at the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office exposed me to the criminal justice system from the prosecution perspective, and I am eager to gain insight into judicial decision-making. Professor Elena Sanchez, who supervised my independent research project on judicial discretion in sentencing, suggested I would be a good fit for your chambers based on my methodical research approach and clear writing style.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the work of your chambers and learn from your approach to judicial decision-making.
With respect,
Daniel Cohen
Daniel Cohen
dc2456@columbia.edu
(646) 555-1212*
6. The State Court Approach
*1845 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Patricia Johnson
Court of Common Pleas
Philadelphia County
City Hall, Room 336
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Subject: Spring 2026 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Johnson:
I am writing to apply for a Spring 2026 judicial internship position with your chambers. As a second-year student at Temple Law with a focus on state court practice, I am particularly interested in the opportunity to learn from your extensive experience in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
My academic studies have given me strong foundations in Pennsylvania civil and criminal procedure. Outside the classroom, my work with Temple’s Trial Team has developed my understanding of the practical aspects of courtroom advocacy. Having observed several proceedings in your courtroom during my Court Observation course, I admire your efficient courtroom management and thoughtful handling of pro se litigants.
I have attached my resume, transcript, and a writing sample from my Legal Research and Writing course. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be reached at the contact information below.
Respectfully yours,
Rachel Goldman
Rachel Goldman
rachel.goldman@temple.edu
(215) 555-8765*
7. The Specialized Subject Matter Approach
*100 Washington Square East
New York, NY 10003
April 22, 2025
The Honorable James Peterson
United States Bankruptcy Court
Southern District of New York
One Bowling Green
New York, NY 10004
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Peterson:
I am writing to express my interest in a judicial internship with your chambers for Summer 2025. As a second-year student at NYU School of Law with a background in finance and a focus on bankruptcy law, I am eager to deepen my understanding of bankruptcy proceedings through practical experience in your court.
Prior to law school, I worked for three years as a financial analyst at Goldman Sachs, where I gained valuable insight into corporate financial structures. This experience, combined with my coursework in Bankruptcy, Secured Transactions, and Business Organizations, has prepared me to assist with the complex financial and legal issues that arise in bankruptcy court. I am particularly interested in learning how the bankruptcy system balances debtor relief with creditor rights.
I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your chambers while expanding my knowledge of bankruptcy law and procedure. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Alexander Park
Alexander Park
ap2025@nyu.edu
(212) 555-3434*
8. The First-Year Student Approach
*5801 South Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Sophia Martinez
Circuit Court of Cook County
Probate Division
50 West Washington Street
Chicago, IL 60602
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Martinez:
I am a first-year student at the University of Chicago Law School applying for a judicial internship in your chambers for Summer 2025. Although early in my legal education, my strong academic performance, prior professional experience, and enthusiasm for learning make me a dedicated and capable intern candidate.
Before law school, I worked for two years as a paralegal at Chicago Estate Law Partners, where I assisted with probate matters and estate administration. This experience sparked my interest in probate law and gave me practical knowledge that will allow me to contribute meaningfully in your chambers despite my first-year status. My Legal Research and Writing professor has commended my clear writing style and thorough research approach, skills that would be valuable in drafting bench memoranda and orders.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of learning from you and your staff while assisting with the important work of the Probate Division.
Respectfully,
Olivia Washington
Olivia Washington
owashington@uchicago.edu
(773) 555-2323*
9. The Distance Application Approach
*1111 East 60th Street
Chicago, IL 60637
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Elizabeth Taylor
United States District Court
Eastern District of Michigan
231 W. Lafayette Blvd.
Detroit, MI 48226
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Taylor:
I am a second-year student at the University of Chicago Law School writing to apply for a judicial internship in your chambers for Summer 2025. Though currently studying in Chicago, I am a Michigan native with strong ties to Detroit, and I plan to return to Michigan to practice after graduation.
My academic focus on federal courts and civil rights law aligns well with the cases that come before your court. As a research assistant to Professor Jonathan Gray, I have been researching federal habeas corpus petitions, giving me relevant experience for the criminal matters on your docket. Additionally, my summer work at the Legal Aid Society of Detroit after my first year gave me insight into the legal needs of the local community.
I will be returning to Detroit during spring break (March 10-14) and would be available for an in-person interview during that time if convenient. Otherwise, I am happy to arrange a video interview at your preference.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Marcus Johnson
Marcus Johnson
mjohnson@uchicago.edu
(313) 555-9898*
10. The Career-Changer Approach
*2000 H Street NW
Washington, DC 20052
April 22, 2025
The Honorable William Adams
Superior Court of the District of Columbia
Family Court Division
500 Indiana Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20001
Subject: Fall 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Adams:
I am writing to apply for a judicial internship in your chambers for Fall 2025. As a second-year student at George Washington University Law School with ten years of prior experience as a social worker in the DC child welfare system, I offer a unique perspective that would be particularly valuable in your Family Court chambers.
My professional background has given me firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing families in crisis and the impact of court decisions on their lives. This experience, combined with my legal education focused on family law and juvenile justice, has prepared me to assist with the sensitive and complex cases that come before your court. My familiarity with DC social service agencies and community resources could also be an asset when considering case dispositions.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background could be of service to your chambers. Thank you for considering my application.
Respectfully yours,
Katherine Davis
Katherine Davis
kdavis@law.gwu.edu
(202) 555-7878*
11. The Clinic Experience Approach
*40 Washington Square South
New York, NY 10012
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Michael Brown
United States District Court
Eastern District of New York
225 Cadman Plaza East
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Brown:
I am a second-year student at NYU School of Law applying for a judicial internship in your chambers for Summer 2025. My participation in NYU’s Federal Defender Clinic, where I have worked on cases in the Eastern District under the supervision of clinical faculty, has given me valuable experience with the court’s procedures and sparked my interest in learning about federal judicial decision-making from your perspective.
Through the clinic, I have drafted motions, conducted legal research, and observed numerous proceedings in the Eastern District. This practical experience, combined with my strong academic performance in Criminal Procedure, Evidence, and Federal Courts, has prepared me to assist effectively with the criminal matters on your docket. My clinic supervisor, Professor Jamil Davis, has encouraged my application based on my thorough research and clear writing.
I would be honored to have the opportunity to learn from you and your staff while contributing to the work of your chambers. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
David Patel
David Patel
dp2024@nyu.edu
(718) 555-4567*
12. The Appellate Court Focus
*559 Nathan Abbott Way
Stanford, CA 94305
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Sandra Wallace
California Court of Appeal
First Appellate District
350 McAllister Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Subject: Fall 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Justice Wallace:
I am writing to apply for a judicial internship with your chambers for Fall 2025. As a second-year student at Stanford Law School with a particular interest in appellate advocacy, I am drawn to the opportunity to learn from your thoughtful approach to legal analysis and opinion writing.
My academic strengths in legal research and writing would be valuable assets in your chambers. I currently serve as an Executive Editor for the Stanford Law Review, where I have developed a keen eye for clear and persuasive legal writing. My coursework in Advanced Legal Writing and Appellate Advocacy has further refined these skills. Additionally, my participation in Stanford’s Supreme Court Litigation Clinic has given me practical experience with appellate briefing and the unique considerations involved in reviewing lower court decisions.
I would be grateful for the chance to contribute to your chambers while deepening my understanding of appellate decision-making. Thank you for considering my application.
Respectfully submitted,
Amanda Chen
Amanda Chen
achen@stanford.edu
(650) 555-6789*
13. The Technical Background Approach
*425 West 59th Street
New York, NY 10019
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Richard Thompson
United States District Court
Southern District of New York
500 Pearl Street
New York, NY 10007
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Thompson:
I am a second-year student at Columbia Law School applying for a judicial internship in your chambers for Summer 2025. With my prior career as a software engineer and current focus on intellectual property law, I am particularly interested in contributing to your work on patent and technology-related cases.
Before law school, I spent five years developing software at Microsoft, where I gained technical knowledge that allows me to understand complex technology concepts at issue in patent litigation. My engineering background, combined with my legal education focused on intellectual property, positions me to assist effectively with the technical aspects of your docket. My first-year Legal Methods professor specifically commended my ability to explain technical concepts clearly in legal writing, a skill that would be valuable when drafting bench memoranda on patent cases.
I would welcome the opportunity to bring my technical expertise and legal training to your chambers. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Robert Kim
Robert Kim
rk2455@columbia.edu
(917) 555-8989*
14. The Post-Graduation Approach
*525 East University Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Rebecca Liu
Michigan Court of Appeals
3020 West Grand Boulevard
Detroit, MI 48202
Subject: Post-Graduation Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Liu:
I am writing to apply for a judicial internship in your chambers following my graduation from the University of Michigan Law School in May 2025. While unconventional, this timing would allow me to devote my full attention to learning from your chambers before I begin studying for the July bar examination.
Throughout law school, I have focused on developing the research and writing skills that would make me an asset to your chambers. As a Notes Editor for the Michigan Law Review, I have honed my ability to analyze complex legal issues and communicate that analysis clearly. My coursework in Michigan Appellate Practice has given me specific insight into the procedures and standards of review used by the Michigan Court of Appeals. Additionally, my clinical experience in the Michigan Innocence Clinic has taught me the importance of meticulous legal analysis and the real-world impact of appellate decisions.
I am available to start immediately after graduation and could commit to a full-time schedule through mid-July. Thank you for considering this somewhat unusual timing request.
Respectfully yours,
Thomas Jackson
Thomas Jackson
tjackson@umich.edu
(313) 555-2121*
15. The Rural Court Approach
*2215 Elizabeth Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28204
April 22, 2025
The Honorable Robert Mitchell
Superior Court of North Carolina
Anson County Courthouse
114 North Greene Street
Wadesboro, NC 28170
Subject: Summer 2025 Judicial Internship Application
Dear Judge Mitchell:
I am writing to express my interest in a judicial internship with your chambers for Summer 2025. As a second-year student at Charlotte School of Law with rural North Carolina roots, I am particularly drawn to the opportunity to learn about judicial practice in a smaller county court setting.
Having grown up in neighboring Union County, I understand the unique legal needs and challenges of rural communities. My academic focus on general practice areas including property law, family law, and criminal procedure has prepared me for the diverse caseload of a rural superior court. My previous summer experience at the Anson County District Attorney’s Office gave me familiarity with local court procedures and introduced me to many of the attorneys who regularly practice before your court.
I am committed to practicing law in rural North Carolina after graduation and view this internship as an invaluable opportunity to learn from an experienced judge in this setting. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Emma Wilson
Emma Wilson
ewilson@charlottelaw.edu
(704) 555-3232*
Wrap-up
Creating an effective cover letter for a judicial internship requires careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of what makes you unique as a candidate. The samples above showcase different approaches based on various backgrounds, experiences, and career goals.
Your cover letter should highlight your relevant skills and experiences while demonstrating your understanding of and respect for the judicial role. Take time to research the specific judge or court to which you are applying, and tailor your letter accordingly.
A good judicial internship cover letter balances professionalism with personality, allowing the judge and their clerks to get a sense of who you are beyond your resume. Focus on why you want this specific internship and what you can contribute to the chambers, rather than just what you hope to gain from the experience.
With careful preparation and a thoughtful approach, your cover letter can open the door to a valuable judicial internship that will enhance your legal education and future career prospects.