Trial Unit Law Clerk - Los Angeles

Federal Public Defender's Office for the Central District of California - Law Clerk Program

The Federal Public Defender's Office for the Central District of California (FPD-CDCA) offers an intense and rewarding experience for law students and recent post-bar graduates interested in indigent defense. Law clerks assist trial lawyers with legal research, drafting pleadings, analyzing discovery, trial preparation, client visits, and developing sentencing mitigation. We provide comprehensive training programs, both formal and informal, working closely with trial attorneys on case-specific projects.

Time Commitment

During summer, law clerks volunteer 40 hours per week. During the academic year, the commitment ranges from 15 to 40 hours weekly.

Qualifications

Applicants must be attending or have recently graduated from an accredited law school. Strong written and oral communication skills and an interest in indigent defense are essential.

Obtaining School Credit

Many law schools offer academic credit for participation. Applicants are responsible for coordinating with their school to meet credit requirements.

Application Process

Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample via email to the Trial Law Clerk Program at Current Openings - FPDCDCA. Applications for summer are accepted on a rolling basis until the last day of January. Semester applications are also accepted on a rolling basis. Early submission is recommended.

Additional Opportunities

Our office participates in career fairs such as those sponsored by Equal Justice Works, NYU Public Interest Legal Career Fair, and others. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

The Federal Public Defender's Office for the Central District of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or age.

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