2026 Pre-commit (July 2026 Bar Takers)
About The Position
HCDAO wants to give select recent law-school graduates, awaiting their Texas Bar results an opportunity to join our office, specifically in the Misdemeanor Trial Bureau, and become familiar with the day to day as an HCDAO ADA. Candidates are afforded a highly dedicated support staff to help them along the way. The Office also frequently hires 2L and 3L law students serving in voluntary internships, and 3rd and 4th year undergraduate students serving in voluntary internships. The Harris County District Attorney's Office is dedicated to making our community safer through the pursuit of truth and justice. Our role as prosecutors is not to convict, but to ensure that justice is done. We are committed to protecting the public, serving with integrity and dedication to the truth, being a voice for survivors, while upholding the rights of the accused. We believe in a criminal justice system that is both compassionate and efficient, where public safety and fairness are not mutually exclusive. Our office strives to lead with transparency, empathy, and accountability, creating a justice system that works for everyone in Harris County. Together, we will rebuild trust, reduce backlogs, and ensure that every individual receives the justice they deserve. Every year, HCDAO accepts applications for our Pre-commit program. HCDAO Pre-commits are treated as Misdemeanor 3 attorneys while they await their bar results. They will conduct victim and witness interviews; (2) conduct formal plea procedures; (3) do trial preparation; (4) research and writing; and (5) conduct jury selection and jury trials. Post Bar fellows routinely go to court to conduct court dockets, hearings, and trials. Pre-commits may also be required to complete additional assignments, specific projects, or observations as prescribed by their Chief. Typically first assigned to the Misdemeanor Trial Bureau, where cases of all types are handled from preliminary hearings to jury trials. The progression from the Misdemeanor Trial Bureau into other units is based on the needs of the office and demonstrated ability and work ethic. After an initial period in the Misdemeanor Division, Assistant District Attorneys move on to the Felony Trial Bureau where they handle a range of felony cases, including serious crimes such as aggravated robbery and murder. Assistant District Attorneys may also have the opportunity to work in specialty divisions such as Crimes Against Children, Financial Crimes, Trafficking, and Mental Health. Assistant District Attorney represents the State of Texas in criminal proceedings in the Harris County Criminal District Courts and County Criminal Courts at Law.
Requirements
- Applicants must be recent law school graduates prepping for the February 2026 or July 2026 Texas State Bar Exam.
- Qualified candidates should also have an excellent academic record.
Responsibilities
- Prepare case files, evidence, documents for court proceedings
- Interview victims and witnesses.
- Analyze assigned cases and prepare the cases for trial.
- Interact with victims, police, and witnesses to make critical decisions to support court proceedings.
- Conduct legal research and prepare motions.
- Present cases, cross examine witnesses, and make arguments in the court.
- Perform administrative tasks in connection with other assigned duties.
Benefits
- Harris County offers a competitive benefits program, including comprehensive group health and related benefits plan as well as defined benefit retirement plan.
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Wellness
- Life Insurance
- Long-term disability
- Employee Assistance Program
- 10 days of vacation each year for the first five (5) years of service. Accrual rates increase based on years of service.
- 10 county holidays plus one (1) floating holiday
- Professional development opportunities
- Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
- Healthcare Reimbursement Account
- 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
- Retirement pension (TCDRS)
- Transportation Assistance (Metro Ride Sponsor Program)
- Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
