OPDC 2027 Spring, Summer & Fall Externship Program – Trial Division Student Law Clerk (Salem, OR)

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is seeking law students with an interest in criminal defense, litigation, and public service for its 2027 Spring, Summer, and Fall Externship Program within the Trial Division. The externship is based in the Mid-Valley (Salem, Oregon). Candidates apply through one centralized application and indicate their preferred term or terms; placement depends on availability, qualifications, preferences, office capacity, supervision availability, program needs, and operational requirements. Applying does not guarantee selection or placement in a particular term. Externs work alongside public defense attorneys and legal teams. Assignments may include legal research and writing, case preparation, client-related work, courtroom observations, and other projects supporting public defense services. The program provides practical legal experience, mentorship, and exposure to criminal defense practice and the administration of justice. 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 externship requirements. Application deadlines are December 20, 2026, for Spring 2027; March 28, 2027, for Summer 2027; and August 1, 2027, for Fall 2027.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in an American Bar Association-accredited law school.
Have successfully completed the first year of law school by the start 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, a 5–10-page legal writing sample, and an applicant statement of no more than 500 words.
Applicants currently on academic probation must also submit a recommendation letter from their law school dean.
The applicant statement must address interest in serving as an OPDC Student Law Clerk, alignment with professional and career goals, and a significant challenge overcome, including the approach and lessons learned.
Complete supplemental questions identifying preferred externship term(s) and confirming availability.

Nice To Haves

Strong 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.
Interest in criminal defense, litigation, and public service.