Fall 2026 Externship Opportunities with the Oregon Public Defense Commission
About the Role
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is seeking highly motivated law students passionate about criminal defense and public service to serve as Student Law Clerks within the Trial Division. These positions offer hands-on experience working alongside experienced public defense attorneys. Student Law Clerks assist with legal research, legal writing, case preparation, client-related work, courtroom observations, and other projects supporting high-quality public defense services throughout Oregon. This unpaid externship is ideal for students seeking practical experience in public defense.
Responsibilities
- Assist with legal research and writing
- Support case preparation and client-related work
- Observe courtroom proceedings
- Contribute to projects that enhance public defense services
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school
- Successfully completed the first year of law school
- Possess a valid driver’s license
- Legally authorized to work in the United States
Preferred Qualifications
- Excellent legal research and writing abilities
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Sound problem-solving abilities
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Professional judgment and sound decision-making
- Initiative and self-motivation
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a legal team
- Commitment to public service and serving diverse communities
Required Application Materials
- Resume
- Current Law School Transcript
- Academic Reference Letter
- Legal Writing Sample (5-10 pages)
- Applicant Statement (maximum 500 words)
Applicants on academic probation must also submit a letter of recommendation from their law school Dean.
Applicant Statement Prompts
- Why are you interested in serving as a Student Law Clerk with the Oregon Public Defense Commission?
- How does this opportunity align with your professional and career goals?
- Describe a significant challenge you have overcome:
- How did you approach the challenge?
- What did you learn from the experience?
Selection Process
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Application materials (cover letter, legal writing sample, applicant statement, academic reference)
- Interview performance
Interview topics may include:
- Interest in public defense and criminal law
- Commitment to public service
- Professional judgment and ethics
- Communication skills
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Adaptability and resilience
- Time management and organization
- Ability to receive and apply constructive feedback
Locations
Portland, Salem, and Medford, Oregon. Placement is based on office capacity and operational needs, with preference given to applicant choices.
Why Join OPDC?
At OPDC, Student Law Clerks gain practical experience working with dedicated public defenders committed to providing high-quality legal representation. This clerkship offers valuable mentorship, meaningful legal experience, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact while preparing for a career in public defense or litigation.
Note: This is an unpaid externship. Externs are not considered employees and are not eligible for salary, wages, benefits, or employment-related compensation.