Tax Law Student Internship

Who We Are

Legal Aid Society’s mission is to advance, defend, and enforce the legal rights of low-income and vulnerable people in order to secure for them the basic necessities of life. Our staff includes national authorities in the fields of domestic violence, housing, consumer law, federal income taxation, health advocacy, non-profit group representation, social security, and special education.

About the Tax Clinic at LASMTC

The Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands’ Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC), the Tennessee Taxpayer Project, is a pioneer in providing top-tier legal services to low-income individuals grappling with federal income tax issues. Founded in 1999, our clinic has been at the forefront of advocating for taxpayer rights, resulting in over $51 million in financial benefits for our clients and playing a crucial role in the collection of nearly $900,000 for the IRS. Our founder, Mary Gillum, a Certified Public Accountant and Attorney with over 25 years of experience, continues to lead with expertise recognized on an international level—most recently conducting a training session at the 8th International Conference on Taxpayer Rights in Santiago, Chile.

What We Offer:

As a Tax Attorney Intern with our Clinic, you will be an integral part of our mission to assist low-income taxpayers in navigating complex federal tax issues. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in tax law while making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families.

In-Depth Training: Receive mentorship and training from seasoned tax attorneys. Learn from the best as you contribute to a clinic and attorney practice that has set a national standard.

Hands-On Experience: Directly engage with clients, court cases, and the IRS, developing practical skills that will be invaluable in your legal career.

Networking Opportunities: Not only will you get the chance to connect with professionals from our firm, but also from  over 132 LITCs in the U.S., and gain insights into the impact these clinics have nationwide, having represented nearly 20,000 taxpayers in 2023 alone.

Meaningful Work: Play a key role in cases that result in tangible financial benefits for clients, contributing to the $50 million in benefits secured by LITCs across the country in 2023.

How to Apply

Email cover letter, resume/transcript, and three references (with email addresses and phone numbers) to [email protected].

Subject line should read: Tax Attorney Intern.

LASMTC is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, people with disabilities, women, LBGTQIA+, and gender non-conforming applicants. 

 Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a law school program.
• Ability to relate to the needs of people of diverse backgrounds and adhere to confidentiality standards.
• Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Good organizational skills.
• Fluency in written and spoken
• Spanish or Arabic is a plus.
• Students interested in a Summer internship must be prepared to devote a minimum time commitment of 20 hours per week for at least 10 weeks.
• Students interested in Fall and Spring internships must be prepared to devote a minimum time commitment of 10 hours per week for at least 8 weeks.
• Willing to come to the Nashville Office.
• Academic Credit