In 1996, starting with students from local universities, the Dallas County Public Defender’s Office launched its Internship Program. Over the years, the program has expanded, training high school, college, and law students from across the U.S. and even internationally. The office is an approved site for students to earn school credit or fulfill public service requirements, offering internships year-round, including for newly licensed attorneys.
Interns engage in hands-on case preparation, often exceeding the typical 30-hour public service requirement by committing to at least 60 hours. The program has trained students from over 40+ law schools, including top institutions like SMU, Columbia, and Howard University.
- Currently attending an accredited law school
- Must clear a criminal history background check
- Currently attending a College or University
- Interested in Public Service or studying Pre-Law
- Must clear a criminal history background check
- Currently in the partner program with your high school
- Interested in Public Service or Law
- Currently in college or university
- Or have graduated in the past year
- Interested in Admin, Public Service, Interp. and translation, Marcom, Social work/casework
- Must clear a criminal history background check
Please carefully read and complete the application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. All applicants must meet the minimum requirements for the position applied for, as listed above.
** Now accepting 2026 Fall Internship applications! **
