Internship Opportunities with NJOPD for Law Students
NJOPD, **Members Only**, offers internships and externships for law students throughout the year at our various offices statewide. Our internships provide hands-on experience working with experienced attorneys, investigators, and staff in providing legal representation to our indigent clients. We offer excellent training and mentorship opportunities, as well as the chance to work on real-world cases and projects.
About NJOPD
NJOPD is committed to providing first-class legal representation to individuals who cannot afford it. We represent clients at both the trial and appellate levels, and our attorneys specialize in various practice areas including criminal defense, parental representation, law guardianship, mental health advocacy, sex offender representation, and post-conviction relief. Our attorneys also handle cases related to recovery court, intensive supervision programs, and forensic science.
Internship Details
Our internships are available to 2L and 3L law students who are seeking hands-on experience in the legal field. As an intern with NJOPD, you will have the opportunity to assist attorneys and staff with case preparation, litigation, and ongoing projects related to the representation of our clients. This may include conducting legal research and analysis, drafting motions and briefs, assisting with trial preparation, participating in client and witness interviews, and attending training programs. As a 2L, you may also have the opportunity to appear in court under the supervision of NJOPD attorneys.
How to Apply
To apply for an internship with NJOPD, please email your cover letter, resume, and writing sample (for law students only) to our Internship Coordinator, Dana Lane, at ****. Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in an internship with NJOPD, your practice area(s) of interest, any geographic preferences or limitations, and your availability including anticipated start/end date, number of hours, and schedule.
Application Deadlines
We accept applications on a rolling basis and have three specific application periods: between June 15th and July 31st for Fall internships, between October 15th and November 30th for Spring internships, and between December 15th and April 15th for Summer internships. Please note that all applicants must also complete an interview with our regional office and/or Internship Coordinator, complete confidentiality and ethics paperwork, and be screened and approved before being offered an internship with NJOPD.
Benefits of an Internship with NJOPD
As an intern with NJOPD, you will gain valuable hands-on experience in the legal field and have the opportunity to work on real-world cases and projects. You will also receive excellent training and mentorship from experienced attorneys and staff. Additionally, our internships are a great way to network and make connections with professionals in the legal field, which can be helpful in securing future job opportunities.
Salary Information
Unfortunately, our internships are unpaid. However, the experience and training you will receive can greatly benefit your future career. Additionally, we offer a supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes equal opportunity for all.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an internship with NJOPD, you must be a law student who has completed at least two years of law school. We also require a strong academic record, excellent research and writing skills, and a passion for social justice and serving indigent clients. Additionally, all applicants must pass a background check and have a strong interest in the practice areas of NJOPD.
Why Choose an Internship with NJOPD?
An internship with NJOPD offers many benefits, including:
- Real-world experience: Our internships provide hands-on experience that will help you develop practical skills and gain a better understanding of the legal field.
- Mentorship and training: You will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced attorneys and staff who are dedicated to helping you learn and grow in your legal career.
- Networking opportunities: Our internships allow you to network and make connections with professionals in the legal field, which can be helpful in securing future job opportunities.
- Diverse and inclusive work environment: We value diversity and promote equal opportunity for all in our workplace.
- Making a difference: By interning with NJOPD, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of indigent individuals and help provide them with quality legal representation.
In conclusion, an internship with NJOPD is a valuable opportunity for law students to gain hands-on experience, receive mentorship and training, and make a positive impact in the legal field. We encourage all interested law students to apply and join our team in providing first-class legal representation to those who need it most.
