Overview

The Office of the Corporation Counsel (OCC) for the District of Columbia is considered to be one of the largest and most sophisticated public law agencies in the US. This agency currently houses 240 attorneys whose disciplines include appellate matters, diverse civil and criminal litigation in local and federal courts, affirmative litigation in the areas of tax fraud, welfare fraud, and consumer protection, and providing legal advice and opinions for executive branch agencies and their officials.

To assist the attorneys and staff, in 1980 the OCC established an internship program that provides undergraduate, graduate, and law students from across the country with an in-depth orientation to the legal business of the District of Columbia, including all lawsuits initiated by or against it.

The intensive 8-to-12 week program is available for the summer, fall, winter, and spring quarter/semesters. Interns work directly with attorneys and assist them in all aspects of litigation. Interns get a chance to develop an understanding of the processing of criminal and civil cases. They also have an opportunity to explore the many career options relative to working with District agencies while gaining valuable experience and building foundations for careers as trial attorneys, administrators, legal assistants, mid- and senior-level attorneys/managers, and other related fields.

These programs are ideal as preparation for assignments in representing the public interest of the District of Columbia and its citizens through an agency that is analogous to a state Attorney General's Office. Participants will develop networks with attorneys and peers, build political acumen, get exposure to law, gain insight into the governmental process, and understand the roles of the media and associations in influencing the legal and policymaking process. Participants are able to further develop skills to plan strategies, overcome opposition, facilitate internal efficacy, and make decisions in the face of ambiguity and risk.

Selection Criteria and Process

Internships are open to undergraduate, graduate, and law students in good academic standing with concentrations in the areas of law, pre-law, political science, or public management. The selection process for the Internship Program is highly competitive. Candidates are selected based on scholastic achievement, demonstrated leadership, and interest in their area of concentrations.

Internships are unique and tailored to each individual's needs, interests, and schedule. We will talk with you to learn of your interest, and to become acquainted with your skills, experience, preparation, and training. After receiving the completed application and supporting documents, the internship coordinator will contact you, send additional forms and, based on mutual discussions along with your application materials, arrange a placement that is mutually beneficial.

Educational Enrichment

The intern's work experience is supplemented by rewarding educational opportunities provided by the agency, including field visits and guest speakers. Assignments include legal research using LEXIS, drafting legal documents, interviewing witnesses, and case preparation. Interns have the opportunity to observe a variety of court proceedings and gain a thorough understanding of how the agency works by accompanying staff and attorneys to court, meetings, hearings, and conferences.

Educational Requirements

Interns have the opportunity to develop leadership skills while fulfilling the educational requirements of the program. Each intern is responsible for maintaining a weekly journal and attending professional development workshops and/or seminars designed to enhance their communication and analytical skills.

Interns also receive individual assignments that assist the division in accomplishing its objectives.

Organization

Appellate Division Commercial Division Child Support Enforcement Division Office of Government Operations Legal Counsel Division Agency Counsel Division Office of Management and Operations

Office of Public Protection and Enforcement Civil Division Mental Health Division Family Division Criminal Division Office of Torts and Equity Equity and Receivership Division General Litigation Division

Application Procedure

Applicants need:

• Two letters of recommendation (current or former educators and/or current or former employers)
• A cover letter indicating area of interest and dates of availability
• A typed résumé, on white paper with black ink, which must not exceed two pages
• A writing sample (200 word minimum)

Please submit all materials to the attention of: