Job Responsibilities:
As a Law Student Summer Intern with the organization, you will provide legal support in death penalty cases under the close supervision and direction of a staff attorney. Specific tasks include:
- Assisting assigned counsel with legal research on issues related to capital post-conviction litigation, as well as non-legal subject matters such as psychiatry, psychology, and forensic pathology. Drafting memos and legal pleadings is also part of the role.
- Conducting legal research on issues pertaining to non-capital post-conviction litigation and related non-legal subject matters.
- Reviewing the appellate record before certification, cataloguing trial evidence and documents, examining for Racial Justice Act (RJA) violations, assisting in motions to correct and augment the appellate record, and drafting preservation motions.
- Managing and controlling case documents using manual and computerized systems, collecting necessary documents and records.
- Performing other related duties and tasks as assigned, with potential travel requirements.
Education and Experience Information:
To qualify for the position of Graduate Student Assistant, candidates must be registered as a graduate student in a college or university curriculum leading to an advanced degree in a professional area. During the summer months, appointees must provide evidence of eligibility for registration in the following enrollment period. Knowledge of general concepts and principles involved in the departmental assignment is required. The ability to reason logically, establish and maintain effective working relationships, draw sound conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations is essential. The role also requires interest and aptitude in the work, a willingness to perform routine tasks to learn, and adherence to high ethical and moral standards.
Desirable Qualifications include:
- Knowledge of Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, Constitutional Law, and Evidence.
- Proficiency in computer programs such as Teams, Word, other Microsoft Office applications, Adobe, and Westlaw.
- Strong legal research and writing skills.
- Ability to work independently with supervision and in a team environment.
- Good working relations with all levels of staff.
- Ability to maintain security and confidentiality of privileged information in compliance with applicable laws.
- Problem-solving and time management skills.
- Ability to adapt to changes in case priorities and assignments.
- Ability to meet scheduled and last-minute deadlines.
- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Demonstrated ability to act independently and use good judgment.
- Strong analytical and organizational skills.
Salary Information:
The salary range for the position of Graduate Student Assistant is from $3,616.00 to $4,731.00 per month, divided into different categories based on qualifications and experience:
- $3,616.00 - $4,020.00 A
- $3,904.00 - $4,341.00 B
- $4,046.00 - $4,543.00 C
- $4,214.00 - $4,731.00 D
Working Conditions:
The organization has two regional offices located in Oakland and Sacramento, both situated in modern high-rise buildings with convenient access to public transportation and amenities. The position permits full-time or part-time telework in accordance with government code 14200 for eligible applicants residing in California. Travel may be required up to 5%. Business travel reimbursements consider an employee’s designated Headquarters Location and primary residence, with all commute expenses to the headquartered location being the responsibility of the selected candidate. When in the office, the intern will work under fluorescent lighting with sufficient temperature control, in close proximity to other employees, utilizing typical office equipment. Telecommuting is an option when consistent with State policy, and the intern may occasionally transport small office equipment. There will also be an opportunity to attend a week of formal training at the beginning of the summer with interns from sister agencies and to tour a State Prison.
Application Instructions:
Applications can be submitted electronically through a CalCareer Account or by mail/drop-off. The final filing date is until filled. Required application package documents include the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678, a cover letter, two references, law school transcripts, and a legal writing sample. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. Applications will be screened, and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The organization is committed to promoting a workplace rooted in the principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). It encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, age, and veteran status. The State of California is an equal opportunity employer and aims to achieve a drug-free workplace.
