About the role#
This externship offers law students the chance to work alongside attorneys and legal assistants. You will represent clients in parole hearings and participate in legal research and writing projects. You will learn about the discretionary parole process, California prisons, and the lifecycle of incarceration and release. This is a part-time role requiring 16 to 20 hours per week for at least 8 weeks. While the position is unpaid, it provides a $1,000 stipend per semester to help with costs. Higher stipends are available for those who commit to additional hours.
What you'll do#
- Draft follow-up communications for clients.
- Research and write memos regarding legal issues or policy.
- Provide feedback on client writings.
- Assemble Parole Packets for submission to the Board of Parole Hearings.
- Update contact records and maintain the legal database.
- Support attorneys during legal visits and phone calls.
- Review case records and prison files.
- Compile housing, employment, and support resources for clients.
- Respond to non-client mail.
What you'll need#
- Compassion for incarcerated people and their families.
- Demonstrated interest in criminal justice reform.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple projects at once.
- Sensitivity to confidential matters.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Suite, and CRM software.
- A professional demeanor and pleasant disposition.
Location & details#
- This position is based in Oakland, California.
- The work modality is hybrid.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
How to get in at UnCommon Law
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Securing an internship at UnCommon Law requires staying ahead of the applicant pool. Because they receive many inquiries, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere. This ensures you apply among the first, as early applicants are often reviewed before the pile grows. Building a connection with the team is also helpful for your application. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral, which materially improves your response rates.
