Legal Internship Program
The Stanislaus County Public Defender’s Office offers law students the opportunity to experience the rigors of what it is to be a criminal defense attorney. The Internship Program provides valuable training in research and writing, as well as the practical experience of the daily exercises of being in court under the supervision of a senior deputy public defender. All law student interns will be expected to perform legal research and writing, conduct client intake interviews and assist attorneys in case preparation for trial. Certified law students by the California Bar Association will be allowed to litigate motions, argue evidentiary hearings and when possible conduct a jury trial under direct supervision of an experienced trial attorney.
The Internship Program is a volunteer program available to first, second, and third year law students, as well as recent law school graduates. The program is intended to be flexible to ensure that each participant achieves the full potential of their commitment to criminal defense. Applications are accepted continuously, and all inquiries should be directed to Rafael Bito, Internship Director. Please email a cover letter and resume to moc.ytnuocnats@rotib