Law Student - Government in Leonardtown, MD

Government

Leonardtown, MD

Law Student - Government in Leonardtown, MD

Law Student

No

Job Title: Fall 2025 Law Clerk

Job Responsibilities:
The **Members Only** (OPD) is seeking law students to volunteer as law clerks within the Juvenile Protection Division. The primary responsibility of the law clerks is to advocate for youth within the justice system. Law clerks will work closely with Juvenile Defenders on various aspects of case preparation. Their tasks will include observing Juvenile Court, drafting modification motions, locating and interviewing witnesses, visiting clients in detention and placements, drafting letters and memos, assisting with case development in and out of the courtroom, and conducting research.

Law clerks are expected to work zealously for their clients and will receive direction and supervision from assigned staff attorneys. They will be an integral part of the defense team, contributing to the comprehensive advocacy for OPD clients. The position offers a hands-on experience that allows the clerks to be fully integrated into trial teams, working alongside attorneys, investigators, paralegals, social workers, and other support staff.

Education and Experience Information:
The position is open to current law students or recent law school graduates. Candidates are expected to display strong written and oral communication skills, the ability to adapt to a dynamic environment, and a strong work ethic. Preference is given to applicants with experience working with juveniles and those who have completed coursework in Criminal Procedure.

OPD hosts law clerks three times a year—in spring, summer, and fall—with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Final placement decisions are made by the District Offices, and candidates are encouraged to specify their preferred offices within the State of Maryland. It is important to note that only the Montgomery County and Baltimore City offices are accessible by public transportation.

Salary Information:
The law clerk positions are unpaid volunteer roles. However, OPD will support externs seeking academic credits for their work and sponsor grant or other outside funding applications where applicable.

Application Process:
Interested candidates must complete an application and submit it along with a resume, cover letter, a list of four professional references, a writing sample no longer than 15 pages, and an undergraduate transcript. Applications must be emailed within a couple of days of submitting the form and no later than August 1, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

This is an in-person position, and all students must begin the clerkship by September 2, 2025, working for at least ten weeks. Candidates are required to commit to consistent days and hours for the duration of their clerkship.