Future Leaders in Legal Advocacy Split Summer Internship Program

Welcome to Patterson Justice Counsel, PLLC, a notable law firm headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, that focuses in estate planning, asset protection, and civil litigation. Our firm is led by our Principal Attorney, Tina M. Patterson, Esq., an award-winning national legal authority whose work has been recognized in the United States Congressional Record and cited in major law journals across the country. Attorney Patterson is also the President and General Counsel of The PuLSE Institute, a nationally esteemed, independent, anti-poverty think tank also headquartered in Detroit. As such, we distinguish ourselves from other firms through our unique approach to legal advocacy and leadership, extending our impact beyond the courtroom to expertly and effectively serve our clients and community. 

Our Future Leaders in Legal Advocacy summer internship program is designed for law students who are eager to gain practical experience and insight into the legal profession, while researching equitable public policy and developing key leadership and advocacy skills that will translate beyond the legal field. This program provides a unique opportunity to work alongside experienced attorneys, engage in meaningful legal work, and produce written work that students can use for career advancement. We are committed to not only providing exceptional legal services, but also developing and nurturing leadership potential, while fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive environment for our interns. 

Program Schedule, Duration, and Location:

The 8-week internship will run from Monday, June 15, 2026, through Friday, August 14, 2026. Interviews will be conducted the week of May 4-8, 2026. One position is currently available, and the final selection will be announced May 15, 2026. 

The intern will work on a part-time basis (10-20 hours), according to the needs of the firm, while accommodating their academic schedules. No weekend work is required or permitted, though post-business hours networking and volunteer opportunities may arise. Remote work is acceptable and preferred, with some potential in-person work days at our downtown Detroit, MI office. Additional travel may also be necessary to attend to legal matters in court and government offices as needed.

Workload, program details, and final schedule will be finalized before program start and are subject to change at the discretion of the firm.

Law Practice Responsibilities:

At Patterson Justice Counsel, PLLC, Interns will have the opportunity to:

• Assist attorneys in legal research and writing, including drafting memos, briefs, and other legal documents.
• Participate in client meetings and discussions, gaining firsthand experience in client interaction, case management, and law firm client development.

Our valued clients receive excellent legal counsel with compassion and care.

• Attend court hearings and observe legal proceedings to understand courtroom dynamics and litigation processes, as needed.
• Collaborate with various practice groups within the firm to gain exposure to different areas of law, including estate and trust planning, probate administration, and civil litigation.
• Engage in professional development activities, including workshops, networking events, and mentorship sessions, as the opportunities arise.
• Interact with client and court messages via electronic, postal, and telephonic communication, and attend to administrative matters in support of the law firm operations as needed.

Unique Leadership and Advocacy Opportunities:

We know law students are eager to do the legal work, which there is plenty of, in order to gain the practical experience of an attorney. However, our firm offers more than traditional legal work. As President and General Counsel of The PuLSE Institute, Attorney Patterson also serves a leading role in the civic community and high-level public advocacy. This unique approach has allowed our firm to gain national recognition, placing our team in a class of its own and offering our interns an exclusive cross-pollination of experience and exposure at the intersection of law and public policy.

After 4-week completion of legal work at the firm, the remaining 4-weeks, we offer our interns opportunities at The PuLSE Institute, including, but not limited to:

• Publish written research and advocacy work in The PuLSE Institute with shared usage
  • Perform research and writing in areas of public policy and social equity to add to your portfolio to promote for future career opportunities
• Attend exclusive networking opportunities
  • As the opportunities arise, attend and volunteer at exclusive invitation-only events, gaining access to professionals in a diversity of industries, including law.
• Initiate leadership skill development
  • Promote the authority of your work to direct your future advancement

Who We are Looking For:

We seek motivated law students (1L or 2L) with a strong desire to stand out through visible thought leadership, passionate advocacy, and strong written communication that projects authority. Additionally, we seek law students who are:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited law school and have completed at least one year of study.
• Strong, effective communicators, both verbally and in writing, with a keen attention to detail.
• Eager to learn and take initiative in a fast-paced legal environment.
• Comfortable and knowledgeable in using technology to assist in performing tasks
  • Including online legal software and databases, Microsoft Office and Adobe Suites, and responsible use of AI (artificial intelligence).
• Capable of working collaboratively within a team while also demonstrating independent problem-solving skills.

Compensation:

The intern will receive a $4,000 stipend from Patterson Justice Counsel, PLLC. We also provide letters of recommendation to support future endeavors and mentorship from leading legal and national authorities.

Application Process and Conclusion:

At Patterson Justice Counsel, PLLC, generational impact and success are at the core of the work we do. We not only desire for you to succeed in the legal profession- we are committed to developing your leadership skills and profile to enhance the work you do in the legal field and beyond.

As such, we are honored to serve in this capacity as a contribution to the next generation. Our Future Leaders in Legal Advocacy split summer internship program is a valuable stepping stone for aspiring legal professionals, and we look forward to nurturing and providing future attorneys and public advocates with a supportive and enriching experience.

Interested candidates should submit their 

• Resume
• Cover letter expressing their interest in the program and career aspirations
• Two references with contact information, 
• A brief writing sample (3 pages max), and 
• Any relevant academic transcripts 

to help@pattersonjustice.com by May 1, 2026. 

We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment.

Contact:

For questions or more information, please contact Hillary Reed, Program Executive, via email: help@pattersonjustice.com. 

Patterson Justice Counsel, PLLC

607 Shelby Street, Suite 700-771

Detroit, MI 48226

(313) 799-2123

www.pattersonjustice.com