Paid Summer 2027 711 Law Clerk

About the Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO): a diverse and dedicated team of professionals committed to justice and safety for over five-million residents. As the second-largest prosecutor's office in the U.S., the CCSAO prosecutes criminal and regulatory violations across six bureaus and four units with a staff of over 1,200.

Mission

To uphold justice and public safety in Cook County by fairly, ethically, and effectively prosecuting crime, supporting victims, and protecting the rights of all residents.

About the Role

This opportunity is only available to Law Students graduating in 2028 who will be eligible for their 711 license by June 2027. The CCSAO Paid 711 Internship Program is highly competitive due to the hands-on, challenging, and relevant work experience participants will gain. Rising third-year (3L) law students will be paired with an Assistant State’s Attorney within one of the criminal divisions of the Cook County Court System, who will guide and mentor the 711 Intern during their clerkship.

This is an on-site, seasonal role with a minimum of 32 hours, but not to exceed 40 hours a week for 12 weeks from June to August 2027. There is no opportunity for remote work.

Responsibilities

• Assist with preparation of daily court call and breakdown of the court call at the end of court.
• Assist with on-the-record daily court call.
• Prepare research memos on pending legal issues.
• Prepare motions, answers, and other legal filings as required.
• Assist with preparation of discovery including video, audio, and document evidence review and organization.
• Interview witnesses and law enforcement.
• Assist with motions and trials as needed.
• Assist in the notification of witnesses.

Requirements

• Must be a rising 3L law student at an ABA-approved law school.
• Must be in good standing with your law school (GPA of 2.5 and above) and not be on any type of academic probation.
• Must have, or must be able to obtain prior to the start of clerkship, a 711 license.
• Experience with Moot Court and/or Mock Trial preferred.

Special Notes

• Only accepting applications from rising 3L law students with an anticipated graduation date from an ABA-accredited law school of December 2027 or May 2028.
• If seeking school credit for an internship, verify with your school if it allows for students to be monetarily compensated.
• Unpaid internship opportunities are available throughout the academic year for those not selected for the paid program.
• Assignments are based on staffing needs; interns may be assigned to suburban courthouses or Chicago branch courts outside commuting preferences.
• Applicants must arrange transportation to any CCSAO location in Cook County.
• The Cook County State's Attorney's Office does not provide relocation assistance or sponsor H1-B work visa petitions.

Physical Requirements

Sedentary work involving lifting no more than 10 pounds at a time and occasionally lifting or carrying articles like docket files, ledgers, and small tools. Although defined as a sedentary job, a certain amount of walking and standing is necessary.

Pay Rate: To be determined. 2026 711 Law Clerks received a rate of $21 per hour.

Application Deadline: September 30, 2026.