Organization: Allegheny County District Attorney's Office
Position: Fall Certified Legal Intern
Experience: Law students
Salary: Paid internship or for credit externship
Application Period: July 1, 2025 to Aug. 8, 2025
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
The Allegheny County District Attorney's Office is seeking law students for their Fall Certified Legal Internship program. This is a great opportunity for students interested in public service and criminal law to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
The internship program offers a variety of units for interns to be placed in, including the Community Impact unit. The application period for Fall 2025 will begin on July 1, 2025 and close on Aug. 8, 2025.
Certified Legal Interns will have the opportunity to appear in court on behalf of the Commonwealth under the direct supervision of an Assistant District Attorney. This may include handling guilty pleas, suppression motions, and non-jury trials. To become certified, students must have completed an Evidence course and an Application for Certification for Formal Participation in Legal Matters, as well as have the Dean's certification. This is a valuable opportunity for law students to gain courtroom experience before graduating.
The Allegheny County District Attorney's Office is responsible for accepting referrals from over 100 active police departments, including the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police and the Allegheny County Police Department. The office is also responsible for approving complaints filed by private citizens. The internship program is based out of the main office at the Allegheny County Courthouse and also has offices located in the Frick building in downtown Pittsburgh.
The internship program is overseen by Assistant District Attorney Sarah Weikart. Any questions can be directed to her via email at sweikart@alleghenycountyda.us.
All interns will have the opportunity to engage in legal research and writing, including briefs, memoranda, and pre- and post-trial motions. They will also assist attorneys in trial and hearing preparation, and may accompany them to conduct plea negotiations, jury selection, and trials. Some clerical duties may be assigned as well, such as copying and redacting.
Law students interested in applying should indicate in their cover letters whether they are seeking a paid internship, a for credit externship, or are open to either type of position. This is a great opportunity for students to gain valuable experience in a highly respected and busy District Attorney's Office. Don't miss your chance to apply and be a part of this exciting program!
