Law Intern (Clerk) (Sep 2024)

About the US Department of Justice

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is the federal executive department responsible for enforcing the law and ensuring justice is administered fairly. Established in 1870, the DOJ oversees federal legal matters, prosecutes criminal cases, and represents the United States in legal affairs. With a mission to uphold the rule of law, the DOJ plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the rights and interests of the American people.

Your role

Duties

The Northern District of Indiana is currently soliciting applications for Law Internship (Clerks) positions for the 2024 Academic Year. The intention of the Law Internship Program is to introduce participants to the federal legal system and receive an introduction to federal procedures in both civil and criminal settings. Interns will be assigned projects from both the Civil and Criminal Divisions and will work with several different Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs) over the course of the internship. Typical duties of the interns may include:

• Performing legal research and/or assisting with research projects;
• Drafting legal documents including motions, pleadings, or briefs;
• Assist in trial preparations;
• Observe court proceedings; and
• In limited instances, may be allowed to represent the government in routine hearings under the supervision of an AUSA before various federal courts.

Each Branch Office of the USAO for the Northern District of Indiana is located in a federal courthouse. This enables the interns to meet Judges and their clerks, and network with federal officials. The primary goal of the program is to introduce interns to the federal legal system, to develop their legal skills, and, above all, to enjoy their overall internship experience.

Training & development

The US Department of Justice offers a dynamic training and development experience, immersing participants in the intricate workings of the nation's legal system. Through mentorship and hands-on assignments, students gain a comprehensive understanding of justice administration, honing their skills in research, analysis, and legal support. This immersive program equips future legal professionals with the knowledge and expertise needed to contribute meaningfully to the pursuit of justice.

Benefits

If you join as a full-time employee, you will get the following benefits:

• Exposure to real-world projects and tasks.
• Mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Work flexibility.
• Health insurance.
• Student loan repayment and forgiveness.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Long-term care insurance.

Career progression

Beginning as an Intern at the US Department of Justice, individuals immerse themselves in legal intricacies and gain hands-on experience. Swiftly evolving into law clerks, they navigate the complexities of federal legal processes, honing their skills under seasoned professionals. As they ascend, these adept trainees transition seamlessly into attorneys, contributing their expertise to the pursuit of justice within the esteemed department.

Work-life balance

At the US Department of Justice, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is paramount. The department prioritizes employee well-being through flexible work schedules and supportive policies, ensuring staff can fulfill their professional responsibilities while enjoying a fulfilling personal life. This commitment fosters a positive and sustainable work environment, encouraging a harmonious integration of career and personal pursuits.

Culture & vibe

At the U.S. Department of Justice, the atmosphere hums with a palpable dedication to upholding the pillars of justice. A harmonious blend of legal acumen and unwavering commitment pervades the culture, fostering a collaborative environment where the pursuit of fairness is paramount. The vibrant energy of passionate professionals resonates, creating a dynamic and resilient vibe that echoes the department's mission to ensure equal protection under the law.

About you

Clarification from the agency:

• Any United States Citizen/Naturalized U.S. Citizen who is enrolled at least as a half-time student and in good academic standing with an accredited law school.

Conditions of Employment:

To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship: You must be a United States Citizen or National. Student Interns must be United States citizens or owe permanent allegiance to the United States. (Currently, natives of American Samoa, Swains Island, and certain inhabitants of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands are the only groups that owe permanent allegiance to the United States.)
• Selective Service: If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. 
• Security Requirements: You must be able to pass a background investigation that will cover employment history, criminal history, credit history, foreign travel, residency, citizenship, and drug/alcohol use; and you must be able to pass a drug test.
• Residency Requirement: You must have resided in the United States for a total of three years (not necessarily consecutive years) of the past five years immediately before applying for a position.
• You must have:
  • Resided in the United States;
  • Worked for the U.S. overseas in a federal or military capacity, or
  • Been a dependent of a federal or military employee serving overseas. The Residency Requirement ensures an adequate background investigation can be completed.
• Student Status Requirements: You must be enrolled at least as a half-time student and in good academic standing with an accredited law school.
• Proof of Enrollment: You must submit an academic transcript or proof of enrollment with your application to verify that you meet the minimum eligibility requirements.

Qualifications

Students must have completed at least one full semester with an accredited law school at the beginning of the current academic term. Preference will be given to second and third-year law students.

Education

All academic degrees and coursework must be completed at a college or university that has obtained accreditation or pre-accreditation status from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. 

How to apply

To apply for this position, you must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section of this announcement.

Required Documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package by the closing date of this announcement, which includes the following required documentation:

• Online Application Questionnaire: This is completed automatically when clicking "Apply Online" for this announcement.
• Cover Letter: This should include a personal statement reflecting your background and your interest in participating in this program.
• Resume: Please include employment history, dates of employment (MM/DDDD), education history, volunteer activities, and awards/achievements (scholastic/professional).
• Proof of enrollment or unofficial college transcripts: Current Unofficial transcript or proof of current enrollment, e.g., a recent letter from the registrar's office. Should clearly show the name of the academic institution, grades for completed coursework, cumulative GPA, and current academic standing. In addition, first-year law students should include any undergraduate transcripts.
• Legal Writing Sample: Should be no longer than 25 pages.

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• justice.gov/careers
• youtube.com/TheJusticeDepartment
• help.usajobs.gov/working-in-government/benefits