Job Title: Fall 2025 Law Clerk
Job Responsibilities:
The **Members Only** offers law students the opportunity to work as law clerks across its twelve district offices throughout the state. These positions are designed to provide hands-on experience in criminal trial law, working closely with attorneys, investigators, paralegals, social workers, and other support staff. Law clerks are an integral part of the trial team and are involved in:
- Legal research and writing: Conducting thorough legal research and drafting motions and memoranda.
- Case planning and investigation: Assisting in the planning and investigation of cases, which may involve coordinating with witnesses.
- Trial preparation and support: Preparing for trials, hearings, and sentencings, and providing support during these proceedings.
Law clerks are expected to provide comprehensive advocacy and support the client-centered representation of OPD clients. They are fully integrated into the trial teams and contribute significantly to the defense strategy and execution.
Education and Experience Information:
The law clerk positions are open to current law students or recent law school graduates. Candidates are expected to be currently enrolled in law school and may be in their first (1L), second (2L), or third year (3L) of study. The positions are unpaid; however, OPD supports externs seeking academic credit for their work and sponsors grant or other outside funding applications when applicable.
Application Process:
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are submitted through a centralized process.
- Candidates must specify their preferred district offices for placement, as OPD has offices throughout Maryland, with only the Montgomery County and Baltimore City offices accessible via public transportation.
- To apply, candidates must complete an application form and submit it along with 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, and incomplete applications will not be considered.
- The position requires an in-person commitment starting by September 2, 2025, for at least 10 weeks.
Salary Information:
The law clerk positions are unpaid volunteer positions. However, where applicable, OPD supports externs seeking academic credit for their work and sponsors grant or other outside funding applications. Candidates are encouraged to apply for external funding or academic credit if available.
Additional Information:
- Law clerks can join OPD during the spring semester (January-May), summer (May-August), or fall semester (September-December).
- Candidates are required to commit to consistent days and hours for the duration of their clerkship.
- OPD emphasizes the importance of tenacious advocacy and zealous representation of its clients, and law clerks play a crucial role in achieving this mission.
- It is essential for candidates to indicate whether they will be receiving class credit or financial compensation for the position and provide supporting documentation if applicable.
