More Judges Should Mentor Law Students - Above the Law

"After each of the cases was argued, the judge and the law students would retire to the judge's chambers, and I could tell that they were all discussing the matter, and the judge was asking questions of the law students that were intended to increase the teaching value of observing oral argument."

"Having law students assist in drafting opinions for matters they observe might help courts decide more matters with limited resources, and it also helps law students put their research and writing skills to the test."

"Numerous law students intern for law firms either during the school year or during the summer, and this is a great way for law students to learn about what it is like to become a practicing lawyer."

Law students develop professional competencies through internships and externships with law firms and judges. Judicial internships offer particularly valuable mentoring opportunities, allowing students to observe oral arguments, participate in chambers discussions, and assist with opinion drafting. These experiences provide hands-on training in legal research and writing while enabling courts to handle caseloads more efficiently. Judges who actively mentor law students create enriching educational experiences that benefit students, judges, and the legal system. Such programs require time and resources but deliver substantial returns through enhanced student learning and improved judicial productivity.

Read at Above the Law