Thanks to the Texas First Court of Appeals

For those of you who have been wondering why I've been so quiet (other than reporting on recent ABA meetings), I just recently completed my judicial internship with the Texas First Court of Appeals in Houston. Fellow interns and I were presented with beautiful certificates during a recognition ceremony at the courthouse today and I am eager to have mine framed for my office. The Justices, their briefing attorneys, and staff have been wonderful to work with this semester and Justice Taft, as Intern Coordinator, really knows how to make some admittedly intimidated students feel welcome and appreciated throughout their stay.

A note on judicial internships

This is my 3rd judicial internship, and I still have to say, whether it's in state or federal, district or appellate court, this is the kind of work experience that really helps pull your law school classes together and make sense. If you're a 1L or 2L, this gives you a taste of the post-graduation clerkship experience so you'll know whether or not it's a commitment you really want to make (after all, preparing and applying for judicial clerkships is no small feat). Also keep in mind that different courts have different requirements for their interns, so even if you're not at the very top of your class, you might still have the educational background or previous work experience that judges and their law clerks (or briefing attorneys) really value.

You might also find local organizations, like our local IP law association, HIPLA, and the ABA (through its Judicial Intern Opportunity Program) sponsor grants or fellowships for federal (and sometimes state) interns.