2026 Summer Social Work Intern - Criminal Defense Practice
About The Position
The Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem, Criminal Defense Practice is looking for students who are interested in the Social Work field, or who are currently enrolled in a BSW or MSW program who are looking for more experience during this summer. This unpaid internship will give you the opportunity to work within a Public Defender’s Office under the direction of multiple qualified Social Workers. You will learn how social work is integrated into the criminal legal system, as well as gain skills and knowledge of the social work field. This internship is expected to start on June 2, 2026 and end August 7, 2026. It will be hybrid in person and remote, with the first week being in person.
Requirements
- Must possess a demonstrated commitment to criminal justice, indigent defense, social justice issues and/or the Harlem communities.
- Must possess strong organizational skills
- Must possess a high level of organization, unlimited energy and patience, and the ability to work on a team.
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
- Obtaining records and analyzing records
- Work closely with Social Work team members to advocate for reduced sentences and/or alternatives to incarceration for clients
- Escorting clients to treatment programs from court
- Researching topics for written mitigation documents
- Make appropriate referrals to address clients’ social service needs (drug treatment, mental health treatment, housing and other benefits)
- Assist clients in navigating New York City Social Service agencies
- Advocate on behalf of clients to social service agencies.
- Update online databases of community-based organizations
- Assist with digitizing and organizing paperwork
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
