Organization: **Members Only**
Job Title: Internship Paralegal Student (Summer)
Experience: Previous experience as a paralegal student preferred
Salary: Unpaid, but offers excellent training and mentorship opportunities
Location: New Jersey
NJOPD is seeking motivated and passionate paralegal students for our internship program during the summer months. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to work closely with our attorneys, investigators, and staff in providing legal representation to our clients. This hands-on experience will allow you to gain real-world skills in client communication, research and writing, trial preparation, and advocacy.
We offer internship opportunities year-round at our statewide offices, giving you the chance to work in different practice areas and with a diverse client base. Our internships are available for college juniors and seniors, as well as graduate students. We also have specialized units for graduate students in fields such as social work, including Recovery Court and Mental Health Advocacy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with investigations, including locating and interviewing witnesses
- Conduct field investigation, such as photographing crime scenes and examining evidence
- Research and gather information and documents
- Draft reports and attend court proceedings and training programs
- Work closely with attorneys and staff on cases
Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in a paralegal program or have previous experience as a paralegal student
- Passion for social justice and helping indigent individuals
- Strong research and writing skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
How to Apply:
To apply for our internship program, please submit a cover letter and resume. In your cover letter, please include:
1. Why you are interested in interning with NJOPD
2. Your practice area(s) of interest
3. Any geographic preferences or limitations
4. Your availability, including anticipated start/end date, number of hours, and schedule
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and must be submitted between December 15th and April 15th for our summer program. Selected candidates will be interviewed by our regional office and/or Internship Coordinator, and must complete confidentiality and ethics paperwork before beginning their internship.
About NJOPD:
NJOPD is committed to providing top-notch legal representation to indigent individuals at both the trial and appellate levels. Our attorneys defend individuals charged with criminal offenses, represent parents whose children have been removed based on allegations of abuse and neglect, and represent individuals involuntarily committed to State psychiatric facilities, among other important cases. We also have specialized units for post-conviction relief, Megan's Law tier classification, and intensive supervision programs.
We believe in offering hands-on experience and excellent training to our interns, and we strive to provide mentorship opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in public defense. Join our team and make a difference in the lives of those in need of legal representation. Apply today!
