Public Defense Legal Intern, 10 Week Summer 2027, (Rule 9 Licensed)

King County•Seattle, WA

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Public Defense (DPD) is actively recruiting 2nd year law students to participate in a 10-week internship beginning in June 2027. This is an excellent opportunity for students considering a career in public defense. Students with a Rule 9 license can appear on the record, under supervision. DPD’s internship program gives students meaningful opportunities to engage directly with clients and to appear in court with the support of experienced public defenders. DPD represents indigent clients in several practice areas: criminal defense (felonies and misdemeanors), juvenile defense, family defense, involuntary civil commitment, sex offender commitments, and contempt of court. Most students will be offered an internship in a single practice area and should express any preference in their cover letter. This is a rolling application – internship positions will remain open until filled. Interns are paid bi-weekly. These positions are subject to approved funding. This is a non-benefit eligible position. We anticipate filling approximately 20 internship positions.

Requirements

By June 2027 the student will have completed two years of law school and be enrolled and in good academic standing at an American Bar Association approved law school.
Able to qualify as a Rule 9 Licensed Legal Intern, under the WSBA rule.
A demonstrated interest in representing indigent persons.
Possess good moral character and fitness to practice law (APPs 20-24).
Effective writing and communication skills.
Organizational and problem-solving skills.
Initiative and accountability for work product or service.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Knowledge of the operation of standard office equipment that may include personal computers, copiers, and fax machines.
Ability to multitask and self-direct in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Multilingual skills are a plus.
Completed at least one of the following courses: evidence, criminal procedure, and a clinical or trial advocacy course.

Responsibilities

Assist attorneys and appear on the record at: arraignment hearings; pretrial hearings; motion hearings; sentencing and probation review; or, if placed in civil practice areas, other hearings relevant to that practice (shelter care, review hearings, etc.)
Assist with trial preparations (DPD makes an effort to provide but cannot guarantee trial experience).
Communication with clients as well as social workers, service providers, and other individuals involved in a client's case.
Other duties as requested.