Capital Habeas Unit Law Clerk

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

Every year, the Federal Public Defender's Office for the Central District of California (FPD-CDCA) offers four students an opportunity to work directly on death penalty cases in our Capital Habeas Unit (CHU). The students begin with a one-week "boot camp" to learn the basics of capital habeas litigation. Over the next nine weeks, students participate in investigating claims, researching legal issues, drafting federal habeas petitions, and writing appellate briefs. They also observe case-management meetings, participate in moot courts for Ninth Circuit arguments, and have opportunities to watch trials and oral arguments.

This program provides an intensive learning experience about the criminal justice system and effective legal representation in capital cases.

Additional Opportunities

Currently, the CHU does not offer clerkships during the school year or post-bar programs. Law students at Loyola interested in year-round work are encouraged to apply to the Capital Habeas Litigation Clinic at Loyola Law School. More information is available on Loyola Law School's Alarcon Advocacy Center website.

Time Commitment

• Summer : 40 hours / week for ten weeks
• School year : 15-40 hours / week, volunteer basis

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 preferred.

Academic Credit

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

Application Process

Submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample via the application link. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a final deadline at the end of January. Early submission is encouraged.

We also participate in several career fairs, including those sponsored by Equal Justice Works, NYU Public Interest Legal Career Fair, and others.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The Federal Public Defender's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

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