“This internship was an opportunity to not only learn about the integrity and ethical awareness within the legal profession but also be introduced to a variety of law such as family, immigration, and criminal. This summer was truly an invaluable experience that allowed me to work directly with experienced attorneys, learn more about government work, and hone my legal advocacy skills.”
“During my time with the office, I saw firsthand how committed public defenders are to being zealous advocates for their clients. I was able to work with and help clients who are from my community, which was an invaluable experience. Overall, my experience with the office has made me eager to learn more about criminal law so I can pursue a career as a public defender.”
“This was a really valuable experience as well as I had the chance to be exposed to a variety of court proceedings – everything from preliminary hearings to full jury trials and sentencing hearings. As someone who would like to work as a litigator in the future, this was particularly interesting to me and helped me to better understand the processes that go on in criminal proceedings as well as what it takes to be an effective litigator. Moreover, this experience really helped guide me moving forward by helping me discover areas I enjoy in the law and further helping me sort out what I am looking for in my legal career. “
“I assisted the attorneys with several felony cases and had the opportunity to manage a small caseload of clients under attorney supervision. My role included conducting client interviews, negotiating settlement agreements with the district attorneys, developing legal defenses/theories, discussing settlement offers with the clients, and representing the clients during court hearings.”
“These experiences showed me the enormous value the state government places on research. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to hone my research skills and contribute to complex legal issues that have a lasting impact on citizens in the community. The internship experience reaffirmed my passion for serving my community through government work.”
“PLSE is focused on providing legal service to low-income individuals who have come in contact with the criminal justice system and continue to feel adverse effects from that interaction, even after their time is “served.” It was extremely rewarding to see clients freed from their criminal record and have opportunities which were previously denied. My summer working with a public interest organization provided me with invaluable client interaction, legal experience and further solidified my interest in serving the most marginalized and vulnerable communities in our society.”
“I worked as a legal intern with the Montgomery County Public Defender’s Office. At the outset of the internship, I was paired with an assistant public defender who I worked closely with throughout the summer. I also volunteered to help with expungement clinics that the PD’s office hosts to help individuals clean up their records free of cost. I thoroughly enjoyed my public interest work this summer and I am returning to the PD’s office next summer as a certified legal intern.”