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Litigation Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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... litigation. Position Summary The firm is seeking a part-time Legal Assistant / Paralegal / Intern based in the San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara area to assist with an active criminal defense and ...

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... litigation. Position Summary The firm is seeking a part-time Legal Assistant / Paralegal / Intern based in the San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara area to assist with an active criminal defense and ...

The firm provides a broad range of services including forensic accounting, litigation support, risk advisory, tax, assurance, and business consulting solutions. Having recently partnered with Unity ...

Novogradac provides publicly and privately held national enterprises with a full spectrum of audit, tax, valuation, expert witness and litigation support, property compliance and general consulting ...

Novogradac provides publicly and privately held national enterprises with a full spectrum of audit, tax, valuation, expert witness and litigation support, property compliance and general consulting ...

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Litigation Intern information

What are some typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a litigation intern during their internship?

As a Litigation Intern, you can expect to assist with legal research, draft basic legal documents, organize case files, and attend court proceedings or depositions. You'll work closely with attorneys and paralegals, gaining firsthand insight into case strategy and litigation timelines. This role provides valuable exposure to both procedural and substantive aspects of litigation, allowing you to develop skills in legal writing, research, and professional communication. The fast-paced environment offers frequent opportunities to observe and learn from experienced litigators, making it a strong stepping stone for a future legal career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a litigation intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Litigation Intern, you typically need strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills, often supported by current enrollment in law school or a related legal program. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in Microsoft Office are commonly expected. Attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies enable litigation interns to support attorneys efficiently, ensure accurate case preparation, and contribute meaningfully to the legal team's success.

What does a litigation intern do?

A Litigation Intern assists attorneys and legal teams with tasks related to lawsuits and legal disputes. Their responsibilities often include conducting legal research, drafting documents such as pleadings and briefs, organizing case files, and helping prepare for hearings or trials. Litigation Interns gain hands-on experience in the litigation process and may also observe court proceedings. This role provides valuable exposure to the legal system and practical skills for those considering a career in law.
What are the most commonly searched types of Litigation jobs in California? The most popular types of Litigation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Litigation Intern jobs? Cities in California with the most Litigation Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Litigation Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Internship, 1% As Needed, 45% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Legal Assistant / Paralegal

LAW OFFICES OF JOHN C CARLSON PC

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

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Job description

Legal Assistant / Paralegal / Pre-Law Intern

San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara, California

Law Offices of John C. Carlson, P.C.
Compensation: $20–$25 per hour, depending on experience
Job Type: Part-time
Location: San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara, CA

About the Firm

The Law Offices of John C. Carlson, P.C. is a small litigation-focused law firm handling criminal defense and plaintiff-side personal injury matters throughout California’s Central Coast. The firm maintains offices in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo and offers substantial hands-on exposure to litigation, client interaction, and court procedures.

This position is ideal for a pre-law student, law student, legal assistant, or trained paralegal interested in gaining practical experience in criminal defense and civil litigation.

Position Summary

The firm is seeking a part-time Legal Assistant / Paralegal / Intern based in the San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara area to assist with an active criminal defense and personal injury caseload. The position involves both administrative and substantive legal work and provides direct mentorship from the managing attorney.

The selected candidate will work closely with the managing attorney and other legal assistants and will receive regular instruction and feedback through Zoom meetings and in-person collaboration.

Responsibilities

  • Answer phone calls
  • Draft legal documents, including:
    • Complaints
    • Discovery requests and responses
    • Motions
    • Restraining orders
    • Criminal case documents and filings
  • Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda
  • Organize and maintain physical and electronic case files
  • Communicate with clients by phone and email to gather case information
  • Communicate with court clerks regarding filings, hearings, and case updates
  • Electronically file legal documents with California courts
  • Assist with general case management and litigation support

Qualifications

Preferred candidates include:

  • Pre-law undergraduate students
  • Law students
  • Paralegals or legal assistants with prior training or experience

The ideal candidate will have:

  • Strong writing, communication, and organizational skills
  • Attention to detail and reliability
  • Basic familiarity with legal research and court procedures
  • The ability to work independently and manage deadlines
  • Professional communication skills when interacting with clients and court staff

Prior legal experience is preferred but not required.

Schedule & Work Environment

  • In-office position
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Expected workload: approximately 10–25 hours per week
  • Work hours between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday
  • Primary work location:
    1035 Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 or 890 Osos Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401
    Both located adjacent to the downtown courthouse

Duration & Start Date

  • Target start date: June 1, 2026
  • Preferred duration: 3 months to 1 year
  • Summer 2026 applicants are encouraged to apply
  • Longer-term opportunities may be available depending on performance and firm needs

Compensation

  • $20–$25 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications
  • Probation Period: 3 months
  • Benefits: retirement plan and PTO after 3 months

Why This Position

This position offers a practical introduction to litigation and day-to-day law practice in a small-firm setting. The selected candidate will gain direct exposure to criminal defense and personal injury matters and will work closely with the managing attorney on active cases.

How to Apply

Please send résumé and brief cover letter.

For more information about the firm, visit:
www.carlsonlegaloffices.com