About the role#
The Alternate Defender's Office provides legal representation for clients when a conflict of interest prevents the Public Defender from taking a case. As a Legal Assistant Intern, you will work alongside trial attorneys, investigators, paralegals, and secretaries. This role offers exposure to the legal system and is well-suited for students or recent graduates considering law school.
What you'll do#
- Organize discovery and index case information.
- Summarize witness statements and manage case files through copying and filing.
- Prepare and serve agency subpoenas.
- Interact with court staff to file motions.
- Serve court orders at the O.C. Sheriff's Department.
- Retrieve cases, discovery, and records from various agencies.
- Deliver legal mail and clothing to the jail.
- Conduct research on forensic experts and legal issues.
- Participate in strategic discussions regarding defense theories.
- Observe court proceedings, including jury trials.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in an accredited college or university with at least two years of undergraduate studies completed.
- An associate's degree or recent graduation (within 6 months) in Criminal Justice, Forensics, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, Pre-Law, or Government Studies.
- Proficiency with computers, specifically the Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience working with at-risk populations is highly desirable.
- Fluency in Spanish or Vietnamese is a plus.
Location & details#
- Location: Santa Ana, California.
- Modality: This is an on-site, in-person internship.
- Commitment: Minimum of 12 to 16 hours per week for a duration of 3 to 6 months.
- Schedule: Hours are available Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- Compensation: This is an unpaid internship position.
About County of Orange
The County of Orange operates as a government agency based in Santa Ana, California. It provides regional public services to the community. The organization employs over 5,000 people to manage its operations. It focuses on delivering public services through various departments.
How to get in at County of Orange
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