Government
Hyattsville, MD
Law Student - Government in Hyattsville, MD
Law Student
No
Job Title: Fall 2025 Law Clerk
Job Responsibilities:
The **Members Only** offers an opportunity for law students to volunteer as law clerks within its Juvenile Protection Division. The primary responsibilities of law clerks include working closely with Juvenile Defenders on various aspects of case preparation. The tasks involve:
- Observing Juvenile Court proceedings.
- Drafting modification motions.
- Locating and interviewing witnesses.
- Visiting clients in detention and placements.
- Drafting letters and memos.
- Assisting with case development both in and out of the courtroom.
- Conducting legal research.
Law clerks are expected to work zealously for their clients under the supervision and direction of assigned staff attorneys. They are considered integral members of the defense team and are provided with training on child development, best practices, and successful juvenile reform initiatives nationwide.
Education and Experience Information:
The position is open to current law school students and recent law school graduates. Preference is given to candidates who have:
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- The ability to adapt in a dynamic environment.
- A strong work ethic.
- Experience working with juveniles.
- Completed coursework in Criminal Procedure.
Salary Information:
These positions are unpaid volunteer roles. However, OPD supports externs seeking academic credits for their work and sponsors grant or other outside funding applications where applicable.
Additional Information:
Law clerks at OPD are integrated into trial teams and work closely with attorneys, investigators, paralegals, social workers, and other support staff to ensure comprehensive advocacy for clients. The position offers a hands-on experience in client-centered and team-based representation. Law clerks engage in significant research and writing, witness preparation, investigations, and trial preparation.
Application Process:
Law clerks join OPD during the spring, summer, and fall, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Candidates apply through a centralized process, and final selections are made by the District Offices. Applicants must specify their preferred office locations within Maryland, noting that only the Montgomery County and Baltimore City offices are accessible via public transportation.
The application process requires candidates to submit:
- A resume.
- A cover letter.
- A list of four professional references.
- A writing sample not exceeding 15 pages.
- An undergraduate transcript.
Applications must be submitted via email, with all materials included in one email, by August 1, 2025. The position requires in-person attendance, with a mandatory start date by September 2, 2025, and a commitment to work for at least 10 weeks.
Candidates are also required to indicate their availability for consistent days and hours throughout the clerkship duration.
Jun 11, 2025
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