Law Student - Government in Austin, TX

Government

Austin, TX

Law Student - Government in Austin, TX

Law Student

No

Job Title:
Law Student Volunteer, Spring 2026

Hiring Organization:
Organization

About the Office:
The **Members Only** is a component of the Department of Justice (DOJ) focused on promoting the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for all stakeholders, including debtors, creditors, and the public. The USTP operates nationally with 21 regions and 89 field offices, possessing broad administrative, regulatory, and enforcement authorities in bankruptcy cases. The program addresses multi-jurisdictional misconduct and local issues affecting the bankruptcy system's integrity. More information can be found on the USTP's website.

Job Description:
Office of the General Counsel Interns:
Interns at the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) will assist in coordinating, directing, and developing legal policies and procedures for the USTP in enforcing the Bankruptcy Code. Responsibilities include conducting research, drafting and editing memoranda, guidance and policy papers, court pleadings, and appellate briefs. Interns may participate in moot courts, work on matters related to Ethics, Freedom of Information Act, Privacy Act, Administrative Procedures Act, observe Congressional hearings, and prepare summaries for leadership. Interns must work in-person at the Executive Office for . Trustees in Washington, DC. Academic credit may be available.

Field Office Interns:
Field office interns will assist attorneys with preparing for bankruptcy court appearances, developing bankruptcy fraud referrals, addressing attorney misconduct, screening cases for debtor abuse, reviewing documents in chapter 7, 11, and 13 cases, drafting and filing motions and objections, and monitoring meetings between debtors and creditors. They may also provide litigation support and attend hearings. Academic credit may be available depending on the field office.

Job Responsibilities:
- Conduct research and assist in developing legal policies.
- Draft and edit legal documents and briefs.
- Participate in moot courts and observe hearings.
- Assist in preparing for court appearances and developing fraud referrals.
- Screen cases for debtor abuse and review case documents.
- Draft and file motions and objections.
- Monitor meetings between debtors and creditors.

Education and Experience Information:
Candidates should be rising second or third-year law students with excellent research and writing skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to fairness and integrity in the bankruptcy system. An interest in bankruptcy, litigation, administrative law, policy, and legislation is beneficial. Interns must commit to 10-16 hours per week for at least 10 weeks between September and December, with specific hours determined by the office. Applicants must be . citizens.

Application Process:
Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, current law school transcript, and a legal writing sample (up to 10 pages) via email. Documents should be in one PDF. Applicants must indicate their interest in specific offices in their cover letter and email subject line. The application deadline is August 31, 2025, but positions may be filled before this date.

Salary Information:
The position is uncompensated, though academic credit and transit subsidies may be available.

Department Policies:
The . government prohibits employment discrimination based on various factors, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, and disability. Reasonable accommodations are provided to applicants with disabilities. The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act restricts inquiries into an applicant's criminal history before a conditional job offer. Employment is contingent on passing a drug test and background investigation. Only . citizens are eligible for employment with the Executive Office for Immigration Review, . Trustee’s Offices, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Veterans' preference is considered in hiring.

This internship offers a valuable opportunity for law students interested in bankruptcy law and provides insight into the workings of the . Trustee Program within the Department of Justice.