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Specifically for HYS, do most applicants do some work related to the law before applying? I ask because the few people I know at school institutions all seem to have had work experience in a law firm or extracurricular experience in the courts or something like that, and used that to pitch their legal interests in their personal statements.

Is this normal? Are chances lower for people who apply with basically no legal background at all?

I think legal experience helps, but it's definitely not a requirement. Certain schools (Northwestern) care a lot about work experience, but in general your LSAT/GPA are the most important factor. I've heard of plenty of K-JDs who got into HYS without any (or very little) legal experience. Just write your personal statement about something interesting/unique/inspiring, and you should be fine. I have absolutely zero legal work experience and it hasn't hurt my apps so far.

Not required in any way, shape or form.

LSAT, GPA, Letters of Rec, Resume are the only requirements.

Not required, but I like working in a legal field before law school so I know it's something I definitely want to pursue. However, definitely not required.