Internship Model Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Location : Public Defender - 150 2nd Ave N., Nashville, Tn, TN
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: PD06590
Division: Public Defender
Opening Date: 06/29/2026
Closing Date: 9/14/2026 11:59 PM Central
Position Description
This is a non-Civil Service announcement. Our student volunteers support the work of the office in numerous ways. We strive to create a challenging but supportive educational environment for our interns. We hope our interns and volunteers will leave our program with a thorough understanding of our client-centered indigent defense practice and practical skills they can apply in the future, as well as a sense of discernment about whether a career as a public defender is right for them. Ideal candidates will be familiar with the principles of client-centered representation, and willing to practice in that model. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to serving marginalized persons and communities, and the ability to recognize and respect the human dignity of every person. This internship is unpaid.
The Metropolitan Public Defender's Office represents adults accused of crimes in Davidson County who cannot afford to hire a lawyer, and children in Davidson County charged with being delinquent and unable to hire a lawyer. Cases range from the simplest misdemeanor to complex capital murder cases. Our mission is to defend the liberty, honor and constitutional rights of the individuals, of all ages, whose cases have been entrusted to us. Through zealous advocacy, we strive not only to deliver excellence in our representation of each and every client, but also to stand with our clients and the community in working to create a more just, fair and compassionate legal system. The guiding principle of the Office is that each client is entitled to quality representation that recognizes the client's dignity and achieves the best possible outcome for the case. Our attorneys, investigators, client advocates, social workers, and support staff take great pride in providing a high level of service.
Typical Duties
• Observing a variety of criminal court proceedings, including dockets, hearings, and administrative functions of the court
• Conducting interviews with clients and their families to complete social histories
• Visiting clients in the Davidson County jails, courthouse, and community
• Compiling educational and therapeutic records on the client and identifying needed treatment resources
• Developing, implementing, and case managing release plans
• Attending and advocating on behalf of clients in court
• Attending team meetings and Office-wide meetings/events
• Participating in weekly individual supervision and monthly group supervision
Minimum Qualifications
Currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor or Master of Social Work (BSW/MSW) program.
Completion of coursework in human behavior and/or social policy.
Ability to pass a background check as required by host agencies or field placement agreements.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Commitment to social justice, advocacy, and working with people involved in the criminal legal system.
Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
SUPERVISION EXERCISED/SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Interns will report directly to a Client Advocate/MSW working on the Client Advocacy and Mitigation Team in the Adult Division of the Office of the Metropolitan Public Defender.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work involves moderate risks or discomforts associated with a courthouse and/or detention center environment, which require special safety precautions, e.g., working in crowded conditions, and working with individuals accused of committing a wide variety of criminal acts. Work is also performed in a combination of office, school, and field settings. May involve exposure to sensitive or emotionally challenging situations, must be able to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere ethical guidelines in all settings.
Requires some physical exertion such as long periods of standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, stretching, or similar activities.
Typical Office Setting
Candidates with accreditations earned in a foreign institute are encouraged to apply.
Note: Per Metro Ordinance No. SO94-1078. All employees of the Metropolitan Government shall be residents of the State of Tennessee or become residents of the state within six (6) months of employment as a prerequisite to employment with the Metropolitan Government.
Full-time, Civil Service positions -
10 Vacation Days per year (increasing after 5 years of service)
1 Sick Day per month
12 Paid Holidays per year
Public Safety - Sworn and Civilian positions -
20 vacation days per year
3 Personal days per year
1 Sick Day per month
12 paid holidays per year
Part-time, Non Civil Service positions - Visit HR and Benefits webpages for more information.
Full-time, Non Civil Service positions - contact hiring department for benefits information
Seasonal/Temporary positions - no benefits offered.