Is it necessary that I speak a foreign language?

Yes, except where English is the language of legal business. Legal work in international law practice is generally conducted in the local language of the host country. The level of expertise necessary may vary according to the expectation of the host law firm. For example, some jurisdictions may function through a combination of English and a local language, and some may use English primarily. But in most cases, it is unrealistic to apply for an internship in a country where an applicant has only a passing familiarity with the language.

 

Can I receive academic credit and receive monetary compensation from the host placement at the same time?

No. The American Bar Association (ABA) prohibits the award of academic credit for hours worked for pay. While some legal educators around the country have challenged this restriction, it remains in effect. (See the next question for details.)

 

Is an internship a paying position?

A student cannot get credit and compensation. Generally internships are not salaried positions, but by accepting an intern, each host undertakes to extend basic hospitality to their intern. Interns may, however, be reimbursed for incidental out of pocket expenses and occasionally hosts offer a small stipend to postgraduate interns.

 

Is housing provided?

No. Housing is the applicant's responsibility. However, Suffolk Law and CILS will assist by providing contacts or by relying on the placement law firm for assistance. Usually the hosts are very helpful. The Internet is an important research tool. The earlier an applicant commits to a placement, the easier it is to arrange accommodation.

 

How many internship credits can I earn?

Applicants are encouraged to ascertain the exact rules of their home institution with regards to the transfer of internships for credit and with regard to the applicability of credits to the LLM program.

The ABA adopted in February 2005 a new "Standard 305", concerning "Study Outside the Classroom" which applies to your upcoming internship. The effect of this new standard is that you will not be able to take an international internship through Suffolk University Law School for more that 3 credits. Because of the large number of placements we offer and their geographical dispersion, we are not able to meet that ABA requirement of direct on-site supervision.

This maximum of a 3 credit internship as such is in addition to the credits you will receive for the required course you have to take at your respective law school for the internship generally and for the extra academic work done for a certificate. Also, this does not mean that you may not stay longer then the required 3 x 45 hours per week, or in effect 3 plus weeks for the 3 credits. You may stay as long as you want, and your host agrees to.

 

What should I say in my Personal Statement? How detailed should it be?

You should describe what your purposes are in seeking legal experience abroad. The statement is for the host employer, so tell them why you want to do this and why they should find you an attractive candidate. Your personal statement should not be longer than one page.

 

Can I send the Reference and the Personal Statement electronically?

Yes. They should be sent as an attachment to Mary Sawicki, Interim Contact for Fall 2012, whose email address is msawicki@suffolk.edu. We also encourage you to have your CV and transcripts sent directly via email.

 

If I already have my internship approved by my host do I need to complete the application process?

Yes.  Your internship application and file have to be complete to comply with ABA rules and regulations. This is the case whether you are applying for credit or not. You may know informally that the host is going to approve your placement, but until the application and file is complete Suffolk University Law School and the Center for International Legal Studies (CILS) will not recommend you to the host for placement.  Hosts depend on Suffolk University Law School and CILS to screen, provide and certify applicants and do not take interns informally. Suffolk University Law School will not do this if the required formalities have not been complied with.

 

What if I do not get my first preference placement?

We make every effort to place you in your first choice. Presumably you already have some indication of this possibility by first completing the Pre-Application. Please make sure that the locations which you list on your application are realistic and that you are willing to go to this location if you are offered placement there. Sometimes, dates, availability, needs or other complications supercede and prevent placement. We assume that if you have made more than one choice, upon notification, we may explore your other options. The process of placement is quite fluid and interactive so you should get feedback at every development of the likelihood of a positive outcome.