2027 Spring, Summer & Fall Externship Program – Trial Division Student Law Clerk | Oregon Public Defense Commission (Medford, OR)
About The Position
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) seeks motivated law students interested in criminal defense, litigation, and public service for its 2027 Spring, Summer, and Fall Externship Program in the Trial Division. This centralized application allows candidates to indicate their preferred term or terms and location. Applicants may be considered for multiple terms depending on their 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 supporting public defense services throughout Oregon. The externship provides practical legal experience, exposure to indigent criminal defense, 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. The program offers Spring 2027, Summer 2027, and Fall 2027 terms; placement depends on office capacity, supervision availability, program needs, and operational requirements.
Requirements
- Be 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.
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.
Responsibilities
- Conduct legal research and writing.
- Assist with case preparation.
- Perform client-related work.
- Observe courtroom proceedings.
- Complete other projects supporting public defense services.
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
