Public Defender Investigative InternAt — Department of the Public Defender, County of San Diego
This investigative internship provides the opportunity to interns to work hands on criminal cases ranging from misdemeanor to felony cases. Interns work with multiple investigators on investigative assignments. Interns conducted background and social media checks on defendants and witnesses, serve subpoenas, request and obtain records, prepare demonstrative evidence, review and redact discovery, and accompany investigators on fieldwork investigation to interview witnesses and assist with Spanish translation, if applicable. Interns use their interpersonal skills and knowledge to communicate with attorneys, legal staff, clients/defendants and other people from the public. Interns' efforts have assisted in seeking justice and favorable outcomes for many Public Defender clients.
Interns receive hands-on experience with working in the criminal justice system. They work alongside attorneys and legal staff from the Public Defender's Office, District Attorney's office, and local law enforcement, and the court staff. Interns acquire communication and office skills while handling investigative task. They learn how to work well independently and in a team environment with others in the office. They learn case and time management with balancing on how to work on multiple tasks at a time with a deadline. Interns get a preview of what type of career they may want to pursue in criminal law or legal field either paralegal, attorney, investigator, mitigation specialist, mental health clinician, substance abuse assessor, etc.
Interns received an orientation, which provide an overview of the criminal justice system, legal process, office tour, safety, intern tasks, and court tour. They receive training and mentorship in every task they are assigned on throughout the internship.
They submit their resume, cover letter, and completed volunteer questionnaire to this email address: pdi@sdcounty.ca.gov
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 12 | hours per week |