Criminal Defense Practice Legal Internship Opportunity for Social Justice Advocates

3 weeks ago

New York, New York, United States The Legal Aid Society Full time

The Legal Aid Society, the nation's preeminent social justice organization, offers a dynamic opportunity for law students to contribute to the Criminal Defense Practice (CDP) throughout New York City. As the primary public defender in the city, the CDP provides holistic, client-centered representation to over 200,000 individuals facing misdemeanor, felony, and homicide charges.

Interns will have the chance to work directly with supervising attorneys and engage in a range of activities, including drafting motions, conducting legal research, and assisting with client interviews. Other duties may include reviewing and organizing discovery, as well as participating in the office's practice.

The Criminal Appeals Bureau (CAB) and the Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act (DVSJA/CAB) units offer unique opportunities for interns to gain experience in appellate law and assist with resentencing motions. Interns will also have the chance to observe appellate arguments and trial court hearings, and engage in other aspects of the office's practice.

As a member of the CDP team, interns will be expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to indigent defense and serving racially and socioeconomically oppressed communities. The ideal candidate will possess excellent research and writing skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues.

**Estimated Salary:** $25,000 - $35,000 per year, depending on location and experience.

**Job Description:**

Company Overview: The Legal Aid Society is a leading social justice organization dedicated to providing high-quality legal services to disadvantaged communities.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Drafting motions and conducting legal research
  • Assisting with client interviews and reviewing discovery
  • Participating in the office's practice, including observing appellate arguments and trial court hearings

Required Skills and Qualifications:

  • Current law student in good standing
  • Relevant clinical program or work experience preferred
  • Strong commitment to indigent defense and serving marginalized communities
  • Excellent research and writing skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues

Benefits:

  • Stipend of $1,000 from the Howard Rossbach fund for eligible interns
  • Opportunity to work with a leading social justice organization
  • Chance to gain experience in appellate law and assist with resentencing motions

How to Apply: Please visit our Careers Page to review all current job postings and instructions on the application process.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The Legal Aid Society is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and prohibits discriminatory employment actions against and treatment of its employees and applicants for employment.

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