Internship - PDD Malden - Spring 2027

Committee for Public Counsel Services • Malden, MA

12d • Onsite

About The Position

The Public Defender Division, Malden Office is seeking students for internship positions for Spring 2027. This role is integral to the office's mission of fighting for equal justice and human dignity by supporting clients in achieving their legal and life goals. Interns work closely with attorneys, social service advocates, and investigators, gaining hands-on experience in client advocacy and Massachusetts criminal practice. The internship is not paid, and students are encouraged to seek external funding. Interns will participate in training focused on client advocacy skills and Massachusetts criminal practice, and are welcome to attend all office trainings and brainstorm sessions. The office is currently operating in-person, and interns are expected to work on-site at the office and/or courts, which are accessible via public transportation.

Requirements

• All students who will have completed their first year of law school by the start of their internship are eligible to apply.
• Students who have successfully completed or are enrolled in an evidence or trial practice class, with the written approval by their dean, may represent clients under the supervision of a staff public defender in court per SJC Rule 3:03.
• Applications require a resume, cover letter, and writing sample.

Nice To Haves

• Course work in evidence, criminal law, criminal procedure, constitutional law, critical legal theory, and/or trial advocacy
• Experience working with low-income clients, people of color, immigrants, LGBTQ people, and other historically oppressed groups
• Experience working with clients with mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders
• Ability to speak a foreign language

Responsibilities

• Representing clients at arraignment and arguing for their release from imprisonment (if 3:03 certified)
• Representing clients at pretrial hearings, including hearings on motions to dismiss (if 3:03 certified)
• Meeting with and interviewing clients in the office and at various prisons, jails and hospitals
• Conducting legal research
• Drafting pretrial motions and legal memoranda
• Assisting attorneys to prepare for motions and trials
• Investigating cases, including visiting the locations of alleged offenses and interviewing witnesses

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed