Job Responsibilities:
- Participate in a summer program designed for first- and second-year law students focused on public interest law.
- Engage in a wide variety of public interest law areas and be matched with one or more teams such as domestic violence, benefits, housing, immigration, and disaster legal services for primary work.
- Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda.
- Perform client intakes to gather necessary information for case handling.
- Draft legal pleadings and assist in trial preparation.
- Attend and observe client hearings to gain practical experience.
- Build and maintain relationships with community partners to enhance client support and resource networks.
- Connect clients with local resources to provide comprehensive support.
- Participate in community outreach to raise awareness and promote legal services.
Activities and Events:
- Attend virtual and in-person training sessions to enhance legal knowledge and skills.
- Participate in the Lunch & Learn program to meet and interact with local judges and attorneys.
- Observe court proceedings in both district and federal court settings.
- Witness court diversion programs such as Veterans’ Treatment and Sobriety Courts to understand alternative legal processes.
- Engage in social activities organized by staff and students to foster a collaborative environment.
Education and Experience Information:
- Open to first- and second-year law students with a demonstrated interest in public interest law.
- Candidates should exhibit initiative, self-motivation, and deductive reasoning abilities.
- Basic computer knowledge, particularly in Microsoft Office and Legal Server, is desirable.
- Excellent communication skills are required, with a comfort level in speaking on the phone or in person with clients.
Salary Information:
- The position is unpaid; however, the organization will attempt to locate affordable housing solutions for summer law students, though this is not guaranteed.
This summer program offers law students the opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission of providing legal assistance and advocacy to low-income individuals, helping them meet basic needs and improve their lives through civil legal aid and holistic support.
