Legal Intern

Posting Date

Application Deadline

Pay Range

Job Type

Department

About the Position

Are you passionate about helping those in our community who are underserved? Join our team and make a difference by doing something you are passionate about! You can work as a Legal Intern/Extern or as a Rule Certified Limited Practice Student in our office. You will gain practical, hands-on experience working with experienced attorneys and legal professionals in both roles. We have positions available in Juvenile Dependency/Severance, Criminal Trial Group, and Early Disposition Court. This temporary position will be held at the end of the semester.

About Us

The Office of the Legal Defender consists of attorneys and support staff who help provide quality legal representation to indigent individuals assigned to us by the court, safeguarding the fundamental legal rights of each community member. Start your career adventure with us and seek just and equitable treatment for our clients!

Proud to Offer

• Work with a greater purpose

• Exceptional work-life balance

• Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County

• Learn more at Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZ

We Require

• Completion of one year of Law School

Job Contributions

Legal Intern / Extern

• Attend and assist with various aspects of trial work, including jury selection

• Assist in trial preparation

• Attend and participate in witness interviews

• Attend various hearing types, including status conferences, settlement conferences, and evidentiary hearings

• Draft and edit pleadings

• Meet with clients both in and out of jail

• Research legal issues

• Write legal memoranda

• Review case files and assist assigned attorneys with additional needs

• Participate in training related to criminal defense and the development of trial skills

Rule Certified Limited Practice Student

• Represent indigent clients in criminal cases in Maricopa County Superior Court and Justice Courts

• Handle preliminary hearings, plea proceedings, settlement conferences, sentencings, evidentiary hearings, and jury trials

• Interview clients and witnesses

• Draft motions

• Receive specific training in all aspects of trial, including opening statements, closing arguments, direct and cross-examination, and voir dire

• Participate in a clinical course to learn effective public speaking techniques

• Receive regular feedback regarding verbal and written work from professors, experienced criminal defense attorneys, and other stakeholders

Working Conditions

Most work is performed in an office environment or courtroom.  Requires working with traumatic subjects (crime scenes, accidents, etc.). 

Selection Procedure

• Only the most qualified candidates will be considered

• Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications

• Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile

• Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive

Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer.

Apply Now!