Internship Enrolled Social Work Student - Adult Division

Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County • Tn, TN

22d • Hybrid

About The Position

This is a non-Civil Service announcement for student volunteers supporting the work of the office. The program aims to create a challenging yet supportive educational environment, providing interns with a thorough understanding of client-centered indigent defense practice and practical skills. The goal is to help interns discern if a career as a public defender is suitable for them. Ideal candidates will be familiar with and willing to practice client-centered representation, demonstrate a commitment to serving marginalized persons and communities, and possess the ability to recognize and respect the human dignity of every person. This internship is unpaid. The Metropolitan Public Defender’s Office represents adults accused of crimes in Davidson County who cannot afford a lawyer, and children in Davidson County charged with delinquency who cannot afford a lawyer. Cases span from simple misdemeanors to complex capital murder cases. The office's mission is to defend the liberty, honor, and constitutional rights of all individuals, regardless of age, through zealous advocacy, aiming for excellence and working towards a more just, fair, and compassionate legal system. The guiding principle is that each client deserves quality representation that respects their dignity and achieves the best possible outcome.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor or Master of Social Work (BSW/MSW) program.
• Completion of coursework in human behavior and/or social policy.
• Ability to pass a background check as required by host agencies or field placement agreements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to social justice, advocacy, and working with people involved in the criminal legal system.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the principles of client-centered representation.
• Willingness to practice in the client-centered model.
• Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Observing a variety of criminal court proceedings, including dockets, hearings, and administrative functions of the court
• Conducting interviews with clients and their families to complete social histories
• Visiting clients in the Davidson County jails, courthouse, and community
• Compiling educational and therapeutic records on the client and identifying needed treatment resources
• Developing, implementing, and case managing release plans
• Attending and advocating on behalf of clients in court
• Attending team meetings and Office-wide meetings/events
• Participating in weekly individual supervision and monthly group supervision

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree