Information for General Intern Applicants (Spring 2027 and Summer 2027, we are not currently seeking interns for Fall 2026):
General intern role and responsibilities:
Each intern will receive hands-on experience in the preparation of various stages of a client’s defense. An intern may research legal issues, draft motions and memoranda, and otherwise assist in trial or sentencing preparation. Interns may also work with the Defender’s appellate attorneys. These interns will collaborate on briefs to the circuit court, certiorari petitions, and merit briefs to the Supreme Court. A supervisory attorney will monitor intern assignments in each office; however, interns should expect to work with one or more of the attorneys during their placement.
General intern qualifications and requirements:
The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in indigent defense. Applicants must have completed two years at an accredited law school to be considered (or three semesters for school year interns). Summer interns are expected to work forty hours (40) per week in either five-to-six week blocks (for those who split their summer internships) or ten-to-twelve week blocks. School year interns are typically asked to commit to a minimum of fifteen (15) hours per week.
How to apply for the general internship:
Applications should be sent to Laura Suelau via e-mail at employment@cofpd.org with the subject line of “(Applicable Semester) General Internship.” Please submit a cover letter, resume (with up to three references), writing sample, and law school transcript (unofficial transcripts accepted). Selected applicants will be contacted to schedule a remote interview.
General Internship Application Deadlines:
– Spring 2027 applications are accepted until October 1, 2026.
– Summer 2027 applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will be accepted until March 1, 2027 or until the position is filled. We encourage applicants to submit most recent transcripts.
No phone calls please. The Federal Public Defender is an equal opportunity employer.
Important notes for all Applicants:
All applicants must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident seeking U.S. citizenship. Acceptance is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation and an Application for Judicial Employment (AO-78). Interns are subject to the Federal Public Defender Code of Conduct.