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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

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 ...

Issue One

Election Protection Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$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 ...

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.
Bachelors Internship Problem-Solving Court Clinician

Bachelors Internship Problem-Solving Court Clinician

Chestnut Health Systems

Bloomington, IL • On-site

Internship

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Unpaid internship for bachelor’s-level students in a counseling-related field (e.g. social work, psychology). This is a year long internship in our court treatment programs, which include Drug Court and Recovery Court (a mental health court). Interns will work directly with a multidisciplinary staff that includes many departments of the court house including: State’s Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, Probation Department, Jail Staff, Police, and Judges among others to help clients address mental health and substance use related issues.  If you treasure working on a team or wish to learn more about the intersection of treatment and the criminal justice system this is the internship for you.


Conducting assessments and diagnosis with supervision, developing treatment plans, case management services, and leading manualized curriculums. Also attending court staffings and court proceedings at the courthouse on a weekly basis.


Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, working towards a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or related field.

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