Attorney Fellowship - Prosecution and Code Enforcement

City and County of Denver • Denver, CO

1d • $30 - $60,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Denver City Attorney’s Office is offering a one-year fellowship opportunity beginning September 1, 2026. This position will support the Prosecution and Code Enforcement Section (PACE). The Prosecution and Code Enforcement Section (PACE) prosecutes violations of municipal ordinances and certain state misdemeanors, including traffic offenses and domestic violence cases, while also handling nuisance abatement and administrative matters related to licensing, excise, and regulated industries. PACE attorneys are on the front lines of issues that directly affect the safety, wellbeing, and quality of life of Denver residents. PACE offers a unique fellowship for law students interested in hands-on litigation, public service, and community-centered justice. As a PACE Fellow, you will work alongside experienced prosecutors, victim advocates, and city partners to address complex and evolving challenges such as domestic violence, mental health, substance use, nuisance properties, and emerging regulatory issues. This is an opportunity to gain meaningful legal experience while contributing to work that has a visible and immediate impact. In addition to traditional prosecution, PACE plays a leading role in innovative, problem-solving approaches to justice. The section participates in specialty dockets and collaborative programs focused on reducing recidivism and connecting individuals to services, including wellness and mental health-focused courts, diversion and outreach programs, and community-based partnerships addressing housing, safety, and public health challenges. PACE works closely with law enforcement, city agencies, community organizations, and residents to develop practical, equitable solutions to complex issues. PACE Fellows are fully integrated into the team and gain exposure to a wide range of legal work. Depending on experience and certification, fellows may: Appear in court under supervision and assist with hearings and case preparation Support the prosecution of municipal and state misdemeanor cases Conduct legal research and draft motions, briefs, and other legal documents Work directly with victims and witnesses, helping them navigate the legal process Collaborate with city agencies and community partners to address nuisance and public safety issues Contribute to administrative and regulatory matters, including licensing and marijuana-related issues Observe and participate in specialty courts, diversion programs, and problem-solving initiatives

Requirements

• Recent graduates of Colorado Law who are hard-working, energetic, able to connect effectively with clients and colleagues, and capable of handling significant responsibility immediately.
• Must contribute to the diverse and creative thinking of the CAO and must show initiative and seek out projects and feedback.
• Anticipated JD graduate of the University of Colorado, Class of 2026 (LLM graduates are not eligible).
• A strong desire to serve the City and County of Denver and support its residents through legal excellence.
• Strong understanding of legal principles, research, and writing skills developed through law school coursework and experience.
• Commitment to integrity, confidentiality, and high ethical standards in all work.
• Openness to learning about municipal law and finding creative approaches to improve city operations and legal processes.
• Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree or Bachelor degree.
• Fellows need not be admitted to practice law if they have taken the bar exam and are eligible to practice with appropriate supervision.
• Fellow who don’t pass the bar exam may be terminated, or transferred to an intern classification or other applicable classification, at the discretion of and in accordance with the policies of the DCAO.
• None

Nice To Haves

• Interested in litigation, public service, or criminal law
• Strong writers and critical thinkers
• Comfortable engaging with diverse communities and sensitive issues
• Adaptable and interested in hands-on learning
• Motivated to contribute to work that serves the public

Responsibilities

• Appear in court under supervision and assist with hearings and case preparation
• Support the prosecution of municipal and state misdemeanor cases
• Conduct legal research and draft motions, briefs, and other legal documents
• Work directly with victims and witnesses, helping them navigate the legal process
• Collaborate with city agencies and community partners to address nuisance and public safety issues
• Contribute to administrative and regulatory matters, including licensing and marijuana-related issues
• Observe and participate in specialty courts, diversion programs, and problem-solving initiatives

Benefits

• Fellows do not receive health benefits or other benefits.
• Fellows can take advantage of Denver’s Summit Savings plan. The Summit Savings plan is a voluntary retirement plan similar to a 401(k) but known in Internal Revenue Code as a 457(b) for government employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees