Legal Intern - County Attorney's Office - Human Services Division

Need more information on completing a job application? See the EPC Application process here. 

Are you passionate about advocating for the welfare of vulnerable individuals in our community? Are you wanting to learn what an attorney really does outside of the classroom? We welcome you to apply for an internship with the El Paso County Attorney’s Office - Human Services Division. Our office represents El Paso County Department of Human Services (DHS) in child protection cases, adult protection cases, delinquency cases, and appeals. The office is also involved in involuntary alcohol and drug commitments, mental health certifications, involuntary administration of medications, and imposition of legal disability cases. Here you will get a firsthand look into the everyday life of being a County Attorney. You will gain hands-on experience in legal research and writing, as well as practicing in the courtroom.  We strive to provide a well-rounded and involved internship to law students that are ready to learn and jump into practicing law with the guidance of experienced attorneys. Come join our dynamic team for a summer filled with learning and invaluable experiences.  

• Performs legal research of Federal and State statutes, case law, court cases and rules, and other documents as required, drafts legal memoranda. Prepares written motions, trial briefs, and appellate briefs as assigned.
• Drafts court pleadings, correspondence, and other documents.
• Assists with prosecution or litigation matters as assigned. This may include document/file review, trial preparation, observation of court trials, and communication with trial witnesses, County staff, and court personnel.
• Attends trials, depositions, meetings, and hearings; provides assistance to attorneys as necessary.
• Becomes acquainted with applicable policies and procedures; provides general assistance to attorneys or legal staff as needed.
• Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Some knowledge of Federal and State laws, rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Must possess excellent writing and communication skills.
• Must possess excellent organization skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks at one time.
• Ability to conduct legal research.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County staff, community representatives, the judiciary, and the public.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in conformance with the policies and procedures.
• Ability to exercise tact and impartiality.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to set work priorities and accomplish job duties in the required time period.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

• Bachelor's degree. 
• Must be currently attending law school program; must have completed the first year of J.D. program; working on second or third year of J.D. program. Job functions subject to eligibility criteria of C.R.S. § 13-93-202.

• Experience working in the legal industry. 
• Completion of the second year of a J.D program at an accredited law school.

• Must pass conditional post offer background investigation and drug screen.

Duties are primarily performed in an office and court environment. This is a temporary position typically not to exceed five months.

The classification specification above is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities and minimum qualifications; specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and environmental conditions will vary depending on the needs of the department/office and the particular assignment. Changes to this document may only be made by a member of the Human Resources Department.

VISION 

El Paso County will be a trusted regional leader known for excellence in county service delivery. 

PURPOSE 

We provide essential public services to the Pikes Peak Region in support of our residents, businesses, and communities, enhancing the freedom for all to thrive.  

El Paso County is an E-Verify and Equal Opportunity Employer.

El Paso County adheres to Federal drug screening guidelines and requires a pre-employment drug screen.