Public Defense Legal Intern, 10 Week Summer 2026, (Rule 9 Licensed)

DPD represents indigent clients in several practice areas: criminal defense (felonies and misdemeanors), juvenile defense, family defense, involuntary commitment, sex offender commitments, and contempt of court. Students will be offered an internship in a single practice area and should express any preference in their cover letter.

This is a rolling application–internship positions will remain open until filled. Interns are paid bi-weekly. These positions are subject to approved funding. This is a non-benefit eligible position. We anticipate filling approximately 20 internship positions.

WHY JOIN DPD? 

DPD is a well-resourced public defense agency in a state that was the first to adopt new caseload standards grounded in the National Public Defense Workload Study (RAND). In July 2025, we began implementing the first phase of a case-weight credit model designed to promote sustainable workloads and ensure that every client receives the time and attention their case requires. Felony cases are assigned between 1 and 8 credits based on the seriousness of the alleged offense, with a first-year cap of 110 credits. This marks the beginning of a multi-year phased reduction process aimed at helping public defenders meet their constitutional and ethical obligations to each client.

Our model is based on the Washington State Bar Association’s Standards for Indigent Defense Services (revised September 2024), which apply to both criminal and family defense. The goal is to create conditions where public defenders can consistently provide the level of representation the Constitution demands—while building sustainable and fulfilling careers in service to our clients and communities.

DPD provides high quality legal representation to indigent clients facing felony or misdemeanor charges in adult or juvenile court, loss of family integrity in dependency and termination cases, and petitions for involuntary commitment because of alleged mental illness or substance abuse.

We also advocate to reduce the harm and reach of the criminal and civil legal systems that restrict our clients’ liberty and disproportionately impact marginalized communities. Internally, we strive to foster a flexible workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive—grounded in a shared commitment to anti-oppression principles and equity across lines of race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, class, and other identities.

To learn more about DPD, visit our website.

• Assist attorneys and appear on the record at: arraignment hearings; pretrial hearings; motion hearings; sentencing and probation review; or, if placed in civil practice areas, other hearings relevant to that practice (shelter care, review hearings, etc.).
• Assist with trial preparations (DPD makes an effort to provide but cannot guarantee trial experience).
• Communication with clients as well as social workers, service providers, and other individuals involved in a client's case.
• Other duties as requested.

• By June 2026 the student will have completed two years of law school and be enrolled and in good academic standing at an American Bar Association approved law school.
• Able to qualify as a Rule 9 Licensed Legal Intern, under the WSBA rule. A demonstrated interest in representing indigent persons.
• Possess good moral character and fitness to practice law (APPs20-24). Effective writing and communication skills.
• Organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Initiative and accountability for work product or service. Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Knowledge of the operation of standard office equipment that may include personal computers, copiers, and fax machines.
• Ability to multitask and self-direct in a fast-paced environment.

Also desired:

• Multilingual skills are a plus.
• Completed at least one of the following courses: evidence, criminal procedure, and a clinical or trial advocacy course.

At King County, our work is guided by our True North and values. Our True North is what we aspire to: Making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive.

DPD seeks to hire interns with a wide range of life experiences. We particularly welcome applications from those who have personal experience in navigating the systems in which we work or come from communities most impacted by these systems.

Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis. Internships will remain open until filled. All candidates selected for an interview will be interviewed using video conference technology.

First consideration will be given to candidates who apply prior to September 1, 2025. Once all positions are filled the posting will be closed.

The Department of Public Defense (DPD) offers a supportive and inclusive workplace. Onsite reporting requirements are based on operational needs. Public Defense Legal Interns may be required to travel to various locations throughout King County, including courts, jails, hospitals and treatment centers. 

If assigned to the civil commitment unit, you will primarily report to hospitals and treatment centers across the county. Because DPD prioritizes robust client contact and in-person court presence, work locations and reporting requirements may change to meet these priorities. 

Rotation of work location, practice area, and workflow is a core part of this position and may occur as needed to support operations. You may be assigned to any of our Seattle or Kent offices: 

• Dexter Horton Building – 710 Second Avenue, Seattle 
• Jefferson Street Building – 1401 East Jefferson, Seattle 
• Ninth & Jefferson Building – 908 Jefferson Street, Seattle 
• Meeker Street Building – 420 West Harrison Street, Kent
• Kent Professional Center – 124 4th Avenue South, Kent

1. An online employment application completed at www.kingcounty.gov/jobs. The employment history should go back long enough to include all relevant experience.
2. A cover letter no more than two pages summarizing your experience and how you meet the required qualifications, knowledge, and skills for the position.
3. A resume.
4. Unofficial Transcript.
5. A three-page self-authored writing sample.

This position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. This position is expected to work the hours necessary to satisfactorily perform the job, and some night and weekend work is required.

DPD Policies

DPD Ethical Walls Policies and Procedures will apply to applicants, such that if you work or have worked for one of DPD's divisions, you may be ineligible to work in another division.

Outside Work Policy for Attorneys will apply to applicants, such that you must receive approval from your supervisor and Managing Attorney before being permitted to engage in outside employment for compensation or volunteer.