Summer Law Intern - NDS Detroit

About the role

The Neighborhood Defender Service is building a community‑based, client‑centered, holistic public defense office in Wayne County. Building on 30 years of experience providing high‑quality representation, NDS Detroit represents residents of Wayne County charged with felony crimes who cannot afford counsel. Interns join a team of lawyers, investigators, social workers, client advocates, and team administrators, assisting attorneys in a holistic model that addresses clients’ legal and social service needs with dignity and respect.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys in preliminary examinations, motions hearings, and trials
• Work with team members, social workers, and investigators
• Perform legal research and legal writing (memorandums, briefs, mitigation work)
• Conduct discovery and file review
• Shadow attorneys in court, during investigations, and at client meetings
• Conduct appropriate court hearings and client interviews under supervision
• Attend and participate in training and office events

Qualifications

• In good standing at an ABA‑accredited law school, having completed at least the first year
• Rising 3Ls are strongly encouraged to apply
• Self‑motivated and dedicated
• Passionate about criminal and racial justice issues
• Previous criminal defense or criminal justice experience is encouraged

Skills

• Bilingual ability in Spanish or Arabic is encouraged