2027 Spring, Summer & Fall Externship Program – Trial Division Student Law Clerk | Oregon Public Defense Commission (Portland, OR)

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is seeking law students interested in criminal defense, litigation, and public service for its 2027 Spring, Summer, and Fall Externship Program within the Trial Division. This centralized application allows candidates to state their preferred term or terms and location; applicants may be considered for placements based on availability, qualifications, preferences, and OPDC’s operational needs. Externs work alongside experienced public defense attorneys and legal teams. Assignments may include legal research and writing, case preparation, client-related work, courtroom observations, and other projects that support public defense services throughout Oregon. The program provides practical legal experience, exposure to indigent criminal defense, mentorship, and insight into the role of public defenders in protecting individual rights and promoting fairness in the criminal legal system. This is an unpaid educational opportunity. Externs are not OPDC employees and are not eligible for salary, wages, benefits, or other employment-related compensation through the externship. Applicants are encouraged to consult their law schools about academic credit and applicable externship requirements. Program terms are Spring 2027, Summer 2027, and Fall 2027. Placement is subject to office capacity, supervision availability, program needs, and operational requirements; applying does not guarantee selection or placement in a particular term.

Requirements

Be currently enrolled in an American Bar Association-accredited law school.
Have successfully completed the first year of law school by the beginning of the applicable externship term.
Possess a valid driver's license.
Demonstrate legal research and legal writing skills.
Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Submit a resume, current law school transcript, legal writing sample of 5–10 pages, and applicant statement of no more than 500 words.
Applicants currently on academic probation must also submit a recommendation letter from their law school dean.
Complete supplemental questions indicating preferred term or terms and availability.

Nice To Haves

Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Professional judgment, integrity, and understanding of ethical responsibilities.
Initiative, self-motivation, and willingness to learn.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with attorneys and other legal team members.
Effective organization and time-management skills.
Commitment to public service, indigent defense, and serving diverse communities.
Ability to receive constructive feedback and apply it to professional development.