Intern-Public Defender (Law Clerk Intern)

Definition and Class Characteristics

UNPAID LAW CLERK INTERNSHIP

The County of Nevada would like to invite Law Students to "Achieve More" as an intern with the Public Defender's Office. We invite you to be a part of an exciting and innovative team who care about our community and partner with others who are working to combat conditions which foster an environment for crime.

We strive to provide the services our clients deserve but cannot afford. We deliver these services without judgement, in a client-centered fashion through a team of highly motivated, well trained professionals. We help clients identify their needs and seek to provide seamless delivery of services designed to address the causes and consequences of their involvement with the criminal justice system.

Position Title: Intern, Law Clerk (Public Defenders Office)

This position will be in the Nevada County Public Defender's Office and will report to their assigned attorney/advisor within the office. The mission of the Public Defender's Office is to

provide a client centered defense to indigent people accused of committing crimes, or who are facing civil commitments. Public Defenders protect the community by assuring compliance with the Constitution by government agents and agencies.

Office Mission: Public defenders stand alone, armed only with their wits, training and dedication. Inspired by their clients' hope, faith and trust, they are the warriors and valkyries of those desperately in need of a champion. Public Defenders, by protecting the downtrodden and the poor, shield against infringement of our protections and, in reality, protect us all. Hightower v. State, 592 So.2nd 689 (Fla. 3rd DCA 1991)

Functions of Agency/Department:

The Public Defender's Office provides legal defense services to indigent adults and juveniles, as requested by the clients, and as appointed by the courts. Our duties are mandated by the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the laws of California.

Intern Duties/Responsibilities:

Under supervision by an attorney advisor, interns will perform a variety of responsibilities that may include, but are not limited to, the following :

• Interview clients, complainants, witnesses, and others.

• Research and writing of pleadings

• Represent clients from arrest through sentencing.

• Participate in in-house training and on-the-job training.

• Assist in the development and implementation of an early representation program, including interviewing recently arrested people while they are incarcerated.

Duties may also include:

• Public Speaking in Court Setting

• Interpersonal and Research Skills

• Must practice privacy policies.

• Experienced on Microsoft Outlook & Word

Educational Requirements, Skills, Training, or Qualifications:

This Internship is best suited for students currently enrolled in Law School. Desirable but not necessary is the ability to be certified by the State Bar to appear in court and represent clients with supervision.

Qualifying Programs:

Law School students and graduates are encouraged to apply.

Time Commitment:

Minimum 16-19 hours per week. Hours can be scheduled in 2- to 8-hour blocks of time during regular business hours (Monday through Friday). Applicants willing to work additional hours or for a longer duration typically gain a more in-depth experience.

This is an in-person internship, remote internships are not available

Why be an intern?

This program prepares interns to contend for positions as a deputy public defender. Typically, interns participate in this program between three (3) to twenty-four (24) months based on individual training and experience requirements and needs of the department.

During the duration of the program, interns are encouraged to develop and strengthen their skills and knowledge to allow them work with greater independence of action as they gain experience and proficiency.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value individual contributions at our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of internship. Please contact us to request accommodations.

Apply now!

For more information, contact our Internship Coordinator team at internship.coordinator@nevadacountyca.gov or call us at (530) 265-7010.