Name
Swathika Kadieswaran
Name of the College
The Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University, School of Excellence in Law. Tamil Nadu, Chennai-113.
Name of the Organisation
The Tamil Nadu State Legal Services Authority (North Fort Road, High Court Buildings, Chennai – 600104).
Duration of Internship
December 1, 2025- December 19, 2025 ( 15 days)
How did you apply?
Through their official email ID (tnslsa@gmail.com).
First-Day Formalities, Infrastructure, and First Impression
On the first day of the internship, our formalities were systematically completed with cross-verification of details through the submitted bonafide certificate, Xerox copies of the college ID card, and scrutiny of our CVs.
We were then taken to meet the Deputy Secretary, who gave us a clear and insightful introduction to the functioning of the institution and explained its objectives and benefits to society.
He also guided us to read the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and the Commercial Courts Act, 2015, emphasizing their relevance in understanding the nature of work during the internship. The infrastructure of the institution was well-maintained, organized, and conducive to a professional learning environment.
Overall, the first day left a positive impression, reflecting a disciplined, transparent, and learner-friendly atmosphere that set the tone for a meaningful internship experience.
Main Tasks
The main tasks of the internship were clearly outlined in a structured schedule sheet, which was followed diligently throughout the tenure.
During the morning sessions, we attended helpline services and counselling sessions, and assisted in providing free legal advice under the guidance of an advocate, which gave us practical exposure to client interaction and legal problem-solving.
We also actively participated in mediation proceedings, including family mediation and civil matters such as property and land disputes, through which we gained a clear understanding of the role and techniques of mediators in resolving conflicts amicably.
On alternate days, we were taken on institutional visits to places such as the Juvenile Justice Board, YWCA, Tamil Nadu Commission for Women, Vidyasagar, the D.G. Prison Office, and the Institute of Mental Health. Among these, the visits to Vidyasagar and the Institute of Mental Health were particularly impactful.
Vidyasagar helped us understand the functioning of a school for disabled children, their legal protection under international frameworks, and the importance of parental care and sensitization.
The Institute of Mental Health visit exposed us to various wards and rehabilitation practices, highlighting the humane side of the justice system. These experiences were exemplary and essential for developing a compassionate and socially responsive judiciary.
Work Environment
The overall work environment of the internship was highly positive, supportive, and conducive to learning. We were given valuable opportunities to interact with senior advocates, who were approachable, encouraging, and generous in sharing their knowledge and experience.
Their guidance helped us gain a clear understanding of the principles and practical aspects of mediation. The office atmosphere was friendly and inclusive, creating a comfortable space where interns could ask questions without hesitation and actively engage in the tasks assigned to them.
This open and collaborative environment enhanced our confidence and participation, making the learning process effective and meaningful. As a result, the internship experience was not only informative from a legal perspective but also enjoyable, enriching, and motivating, leaving a lasting professional impression.
Good Things about the Internship
This internship was highly beneficial and enriching, offering practical exposure to various aspects of legal services. The structured schedule allowed meaningful participation in helpline assistance, counselling, free legal aid, and mediation proceedings, especially in family and civil disputes.
Interaction with senior advocates and officials enhanced our understanding of mediation and legal procedures. Institutional visits to places like Vidyasagar, the Institute of Mental Health, the Juvenile Justice Board, and statutory commissions provided valuable insight into the social dimensions of law and justice.
The supportive and inclusive work environment encouraged learning, confidence, and active participation, effectively bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world legal practice.
Bad Things about the Internship
There were very few negative aspects of this internship. The only notable limitation was that we were not permitted to visit the inside of Puzhal Jail due to security restrictions, which limited our exposure to prison administration and inmate conditions.
However, this restriction was understandable considering safety concerns. Apart from this, the internship was well-organised, informative, and smooth, with no major drawbacks, making the overall experience largely positive and satisfactory.
Monthly Stipend
No stipend was provided during the internship. However, the experience, learning opportunities, and practical exposure gained through various activities and institutional visits were highly satisfying and made the internship truly worthwhile.
Details about the Accommodation, Commuting to the Office
The office is well connected by public transport, being located near the MRTS stations at Beach and Chennai Fort, and is also within walking distance from the High Court Metro station. Additionally, it is close to major bus stops, making daily commuting convenient.
However, no accommodation is provided for interns, which may require them to arrange their own accommodation during the internship period.
Anything else you want to share?
Apart from the daily tasks, spending time interacting with fellow interns and discussing our experiences helped us relax and build meaningful connections. The internship imparted important lessons on empathy, patience, and professionalism while dealing with people from diverse backgrounds.
It highlighted the significance of access to justice and the role of a humane and sensitive approach in legal practice, contributing to both personal growth and a stronger understanding of judicial responsibility.
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