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
- Or a recent Law School Graduate
- Must clear a criminal history background check
- Currently attending a college or university, or have graduated in the past year
- Currently either a junior or senior; or have graduated
- Currently studying pre-law or is interested in administrative, public service, criminal justice, interp. & translate, communication/marketing, or social work field
- Must clear a criminal history background check
- Availability: Limited exclusively to students from our established partner high school.
- Individual, Direct Applications: Not accepted.
- Program Structure: This program operates solely through a standing organizational partnership.
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 2027 Spring Internship applications! **
