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Public Defender Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ACLU - Internships

$20/hr

The ACLU seeks an Undergraduate Intern in the Advocacy - South Dakota Chapter of the ACLU ... Public speaking experience preferred, but not required * Volunteer management experience preferred ...

Issue One

Election Protection Intern

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$18.40/hr

Issue One educates the public and Congress to pass legislation to increase transparency, strengthen ... We seek an intern who can be unflinching when assigned various responsibilities and remain open ...

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How much do public defender intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for public defender intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Public Defender Intern do?

A Public Defender Intern assists public defenders in providing legal representation to individuals who cannot afford private attorneys, usually in criminal cases. Interns may conduct legal research, draft motions and briefs, observe court proceedings, and help prepare case files. They often work closely with attorneys and clients, gaining hands-on experience in criminal defense law. This role provides valuable exposure to the court system and helps interns develop practical legal skills under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Defender Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Defender Intern, you need a solid understanding of criminal law, legal research, and case preparation, often supported by enrollment in or completion of law school coursework. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and proficiency in drafting legal documents, are typically required. Strong communication, empathy, and resilience are standout soft skills for working with diverse clients and navigating challenging legal environments. These abilities are crucial for providing effective defense, supporting attorneys, and ensuring fair legal representation for clients.

What is the difference between Public Defender Intern vs Public Defender Associate?

AspectPublic Defender InternPublic Defender Associate
Required CredentialsLaw student or recent graduate, often in internship programsLicensed attorney with bar admission
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised by attorneys, limited responsibilitiesFull-time legal practice, handling cases independently under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, law schools, legal clinicsPublic defender offices, government legal departments
Common Search & ComparisonOften searched by students or interns exploring career pathsCompared by those seeking full-time public defense roles

In summary, a Public Defender Intern is typically a law student or recent graduate gaining experience through internships, while a Public Defender Associate is a licensed attorney actively practicing in public defense roles. The intern position is more educational and supervised, whereas the associate handles cases independently within the public defender office.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect as a Public Defender Intern?

As a Public Defender Intern, you'll typically assist attorneys with case preparation, including conducting legal research, drafting motions, and reviewing discovery materials. You may also observe court proceedings, interview clients, and help with trial preparation under supervision. Interns often work closely with both attorneys and support staff, gaining exposure to a variety of criminal cases and learning about courtroom procedures. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in legal defense work and an opportunity to develop skills in client communication and legal analysis.
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Public Defender Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Defender Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 9% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.
Government Affairs Intern

Government Affairs Intern

Safari Club International

Washington, DC • On-site

$18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Position: Government Affairs Internship

Location: Position is in DC, will work both in the office and from home

Dates: Begins in Feb/March and runs through end of May (can be flexible)

Hours: Monday – Friday; variable business hours considered

Pay: $18.00 per hour

Department: Government Affairs

All candidates should submit a resume and a cover letter.

Who We Are

https://www.safariclub.org/

Safari Club International (SCI) is the leading defender of the freedom to hunt and supporter of wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI is unique in the scope of our ability to defend and advance our freedom to hunt, mobilizing 143 chapters and an affiliated network representing 7.2 million hunters around the world.

SCI is also the only hunting rights organization with an international advocacy team based in Washington, D.C. and an all-species focus. In the U.S., SCI’s fulltime staff of professional advocates speak for hunters at federal and state levels on important issues such as access to hunting on public lands and the authority of states to manage their wildlife.

Through SCI’s Hunter Advocacy Action Center (HAAC), SCI educates and activates hunter advocates on issues in their communities and states, as well as nationwide. SCI’s chapter networks in Canada and Europe are involved in advocacy on local and global hunting issues, protecting sportsmen’s rights to hunt and import trophies. For more than two decades, SCI has been the major defender of hunters in courtrooms throughout the country.

SCI is First for Hunters.

All applicants should demonstrate an understanding of, and commitment to, hunting as an essential part of biologically sound and ethically responsible international wildlife management. The ideal candidate will have an existing knowledge of SCI’s current programs and mission and be passionate about hunter’s rights.

Summary

The Intern will provide support to the International Government & Public Affairs office, as well as assist with the general administrative support of the SCI Washington, DC Office. Will assist with managing legislative projects and programs both federal and local. The intern will be responsible for meeting regular communication needs within SCI organizing files, maintaining budget information, and preparing reports and other written materials that reflect the status and accomplishments of the organization’s programs. In addition, the incumbent may be called on to prepare communications with the public and our organization’s staff and members.

This position will analyze and organize information, handle multiple tasks on an ongoing basis, set daily priorities and exercise some independent judgment. The Intern will handle confidential information, understand organizational dynamics and use diplomacy in interactions.

  • Generate communication materials and other reporting on legislative priorities
  • Perform research online and review information requests from SCI’s communications and advocacy teams.
  • Provide administrative support for Government Affairs Committee meetings, assist with event planning, submit accounting requests, and perform other day to day office tasks.
  • Participate in international wildlife conservation related meetings and events in Washington, DC.

Work Location and Travel Requirements

This position must be able to work in our DC office. No travel is required.

Skills and Abilities

  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite software, to include OneDrive, SharePoint, Teams with an ability to become familiar with SCI-specific programs and software.
  • Demonstrated excellence in verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal and customer service skills, organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate with a variety of stakeholders, and the ability to respond to needs in a tactful and strategic manner.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to adapt to the needs of the organization and employees.
  • Ability to work independently, remote from the headquarters location, while maintaining a high level of productivity and contact with his/her supervisor and coworkers.
  • Ability to build relationships with legislative and regulatory decision makers, associations and other people who have influence over policy makers.

Qualifications and Education

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Knowledge of MS Office – Excel, Word, and Outlook
  • Motivation and strong desire to take on new challenges and learn as much as possible.
  • Must be able to work independently.
  • Knowledge of sustainable use sportsmen’s issues preferred
  • Active Hunter preferred