Law Student - Government in Baltimore, MD

Government

Baltimore, MD

Law Student - Government in Baltimore, MD

Law Student

No

Job Title: Fall 2025 Law Clerk

Job Responsibilities:
Law clerks in the Post Conviction Defender's Division are entrusted with several critical tasks aimed at ensuring fairness in criminal convictions and maintaining the integrity of the criminal justice system. The primary responsibilities include:
- Conducting legal research and analysis to support post conviction proceedings.
- Performing investigations to gather relevant information and evidence.
- Writing legal memorandums, post conviction petitions, and motions for modification.
- Interviewing incarcerated clients both in prison and via video conference to gather information and support their cases.
- Assisting in providing comprehensive advocacy as part of a client-centered and team-based representation approach.
- Engaging in significant research and writing, witness preparation, investigations, and trial preparation.
- Working closely with attorneys, investigators, paralegals, social workers, and other support staff to ensure the best possible representation for clients.

Education and Experience Information:
Applicants must be current law students or recent law school graduates. The opportunity is designed to offer hands-on experience to law students, integrating them fully into trial teams and allowing them to work closely with various legal professionals. This position is ideal for those who demonstrate:
- A commitment to zealous and comprehensive public defense.
- The ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- The capacity to work independently.
- A strong interest in client-centered legal advocacy.

Salary Information:
The law clerk positions are unpaid volunteer opportunities. However, the organization supports externs seeking academic credits for their work and may sponsor grant or other outside funding applications where applicable.

Application Process:
Applications for the Fall 2025 Law Clerk position are submitted through a centralized process, with final selections made by the Post Conviction Defender's Division. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and candidates must email their application materials, including a resume, cover letter, list of four professional references, a writing sample no longer than 15 pages, and an undergraduate transcript. The application deadline is August 1, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered. This is an in-person position, and all students must start the clerkship by September 2, 2025, committing to work for at least 10 weeks.

Additional Notes:
- Law clerk opportunities are available during the spring semester (January-May), fall semester (September-December), and summer (May-August).
- The position requires a commitment to working consistent days and hours for the duration of the clerkship.
- Candidates should be prepared to engage in a rigorous and immersive legal environment, contributing to the organization's mission of tenacious advocacy and zealous representation of clients.