Internship - PDD Salem - Spring 2027

Committee for Public Counsel Services • Salem, MA

11d

About The Position

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) Salem Public Defender Division is offering internship opportunities for the Spring 2027 semester. CPCS is dedicated to fighting for equal justice and human dignity by supporting clients in achieving their legal and life goals, and zealously advocating for individual rights while promoting just public policy. CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing legal representation to individuals who cannot afford an attorney, covering cases in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, sexually dangerous person, and sex offender registry matters, as well as related appeals and post-conviction proceedings. The agency values diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to ensure its staff reflects a broad range of human differences and experiences, fostering a respectful and supportive work climate, and promoting the dignity and well-being of all staff members. Law student interns will gain valuable experience and training under the supervision of veteran attorneys, working closely with lawyers, social workers, and investigators. They will provide legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients charged with criminal offenses in District and Superior Courts, with opportunities for legal research and writing, arraignment and bail advocacy, second seating trials, and pretrial investigations.

Requirements

• Law students who have successfully completed or are enrolled in an evidence or trial practice class
• Written approval by their Dean
• Ability to represent clients under the supervision of a staff public defender in court per SJC Rule 3:03
• Must agree to keep confidential all information involving client representation, and the work they perform on behalf of our clients

Nice To Haves

• Law Students who have taken classes in evidence, criminal law, constitutional law, critical legal theory, and/or trial advocacy
• SJC Rule 3.03 certification

Responsibilities

• Client interviews
• Arraignment and bail arguments
• Legal research
• Drafting pretrial motions, affidavits and legal memoranda
• Pretrial investigation, including visiting the locations of alleged crimes and interviewing witnesses
• Pretrial Motion arguments
• Keeping confidential all information involving client representation and the work performed on behalf of clients

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed