Legal Intern - Summer 2027

Harris County • Houston, TX

1d

About The Position

The Harris County Public Defender's Office (HCPDO) offers law students and recent law school graduates the opportunity to gain meaningful, hands-on experience representing indigent clients in one of the largest and busiest criminal court systems in the country. Legal interns are integrated into interdisciplinary defense teams and work directly with attorneys on active criminal cases. Rather than observing from the sidelines, interns contribute to case preparation, legal research, client advocacy, and trial strategy while learning the day-to-day practice of client-centered public defense. Through mentorship, courtroom exposure, and a structured summer training program, interns gain practical skills that prepare them for careers in criminal defense and public interest law. The summer program includes weekly substantive legal training, lunch-and-learn presentations, and a multi-week mock trial program.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school or be a recent graduate of an ABA-accredited law school.
• Demonstrate strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Be able to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.
• Be able to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, client-centered environment.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in criminal defense, public interest law, or indigent defense.
• Resume
• Law school transcript (official or unofficial)
• Writing sample or personal statement (maximum four (4) pages)
• List of three (3) references, including: Two (2) legal and/or professional references, One (1) personal (non-legal) reference

Nice To Haves

• Are 2L or 3L law students (strong 1L applicants are encouraged to apply).
• Have prior legal, clinical, externship, or public interest experience.
• Demonstrate a commitment to client-centered representation and serving individuals impacted by the criminal legal system.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research and draft motions, memoranda, and other legal documents.
• Assist attorneys with case preparation, investigation, and trial strategy.
• Observe hearings, trials, and daily court proceedings.
• Review discovery, police reports, court records, and other case materials.
• Participate in client interviews in both office and custodial settings.
• Support factual investigation and case development.
• Attend office trainings and educational programming.
• Work collaboratively with attorneys and interdisciplinary team members, including investigators, social workers, mitigation specialists, and client relations coordinators.

Benefits

• Many students receive academic credit or funding through their law school, externship program, or public interest fellowship.
• HCPDO is happy to provide any documentation needed to support funding or academic credit after an applicant has been selected.

What This Job Offers

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