Navigating Legal Internships In Nigeria: An Excerpt From The Book How To Intern Like A Pro

Introduction

An internship is a temporary work experience offered by organizations, firms, and chambers to students or graduates. It is a chance to gain hands-on experience in a specific field, learn new skills, and explore potential career paths. Internships can either be paid or unpaid, and they could last for a few weeks, months, or even a year.

In today’s competitive job market, a strong resume or CV is no longer enough. Employers crave employees with real-world experience and a demonstrated passion for your relevant field. This is why departments like Civil Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Microbiology, etc., participate in compulsory internships, aiding in gaining real-life experiences.

For the legal department, internships are not compulsory at the undergraduate level, however, they are very important in shaping your career journey and helping you stand out.

There are key things internships do for you as a law student. Remember, it is not compulsory but necessary.

The Essentials of Internships

• Gaining learning experience: The primary focus of an internship is on learning. So, it doesn’t really matter sometimes if you don’t have practical knowledge about the procedural aspects of law. Some internships, which are mentorship-related, provide structures for undergraduate interns to learn. However, this might differ with some firms and for graduate interns. The best places to gain learning experience are developing chambers or smaller firms because most big firms might not have the time to give you sufficient tutorials due to their busy schedules. They expect you to have a substantive knowledge of the law before applying for an internship, though you can still gain practical knowledge from them.

• Skill development: It is no secret that internships help in developing your skills. They provide practical knowledge beyond classroom experience. For example, the principles of law you were taught in contract law, such as offer and acceptance, become applicable in real-life cases. Problem questions will represent real issues faced by potential clients, waiting for you to offer practical solutions and advice. I promise not to share too many stories, but I once completed a Human Rights International internship with a firm called LEO CUSSEN. It was an Austrian-based firm, and there was a case involving a lady whose rights were neglected by her school authorities and teacher, leading her to seek legal advice from the firm. This is the law in action, demonstrating what it means to be part of the “bar” or the “bench.” Internships also help you develop basic employable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

• Discovering your Legal Niche: If you are unsure about your ideal career path, internships are a fantastic way to test the waters of different fields. I did an internship for a firm that focuses on Arbitration; it was quite fun but also challenging. Although it was my first time doing it and I had no prior knowledge of Arbitration. This is what internships provide: a practical test of your knowledge in those fields and help grow your passion in your chosen field.

• Networking: Personally, I feel that networking is the key component of internships. Internships offer valuable networking opportunities where you can establish relationships with legal professionals and fellow law students. This is extremely beneficial for future job prospects and potential mentorship opportunities. Remember, your net worth is your network.

Boosting your resume and CV: This cannot be overstated. Internships give you a significant advantage over your peers if you know how to leverage them effectively. 

Types of Internships

There are various types of internships which can be classified under the following headings which includes:

By Duration:

• Summer Internships: These internships typically last a few weeks to a few months, often coinciding with summer break for students. They offer a concentrated taste of a particular field. Some firms like Platinum & Taylor Hill LP or Olaniwun Ajayi LP adopt this type of internship.

• Part-Time Internships: These internships provide flexibility, allowing you to gain experience while managing other activities. This is more applicable in international internships or virtual internships. You can find international internships on Forage.com.

• Full-Time Internships: These internships require a more significant time commitment (often 40 hours per week) and offer a comprehensive experience within an organization. They are ideal for students on gap years or those nearing graduation. It is best to engage in this type of internship during holidays, e.g., Templars Internship, etc.

Internships By Compensation:

• Paid Internships: These internships offer financial compensation, usually monthly wages, data allowances, or stipends. It is a great way to gain valuable experience while earning some income. E.g., Harlem Virtual Internship, AELEX Law Firm, etc.

• Unpaid Internships: Though these firms don’t offer any financial compensation, unpaid internships can still be valuable. They provide experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to build your resume.

Internships By Courses:

• This type provides internships for limited courses or areas of law. This includes Intellectual Property Internships, Human Rights Internship, etc.

Internships By Location:

• Virtual Internships: The rise of remote work has opened doors to virtual internships. These allow you to gain experience from anywhere in the world with a strong internet connection. E.g., Hilltop Solicitors Female Internship.

• Physical Internships: This is the typical internship where interns have to be present in the firm’s location. E.g., Templars Internship.

By Programs or Limitation to a Certain Class of Persons:

It could include internships specifically for a certain class of persons, e.g., Hilltop Female Internship, Physically Impaired Student Internships, Internships particularly for Fourth-year/Final-year law students, etc.

Additionally, externships are similar to internships but they offer practical work experience. These are only available for graduates, including law school aspirants and law school students.

Conclusion

The “best” type of internship depends on your individual goals and circumstances. You should consider your interests and time commitment before applying.

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About Author

Immaculata Chidera Osuji is a law graduate from Nnamdi Azikiwe University. She is the author of Blooming Faith, How To Intern Like A Pro and How I Got My Life Back.