OPD is accepting applications for the Summer 2025 Law Clerk program.
OPD's Summer Law Clerkship is an intensive 10 week program, hands-on program. Law clerks assist attorneys in all aspects of criminal litigation including performing legal research, conducting factual investigation, drafting of memoranda and motions, analyzing discovery materials and preparing briefs.
Law clerks are required to abide by OPD's confidentiality policy, and to act at all times in the best interest of OPD's clients. Law clerks may be asked to do everything a staff attorney does for a client on a case short of speaking on the record in court. This may include, but not limited too:
- Legal research on a wide range of issues arising from the 4th, 5th, 6th and 8th Amendments;
- Writing memos, motions and writ application to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals and the Louisiana Supreme Court;
- Visiting clients in jail, meeting with clients' families and/or defense witnesses both in and outside of the office;
- Investigating with the attorney, i.e. going to the crime scene, canvassing neighborhoods, interviewing complainants;
- Assisting attorneys at trial and substantive motions hearings;
- Digesting discovery and pretrial hearing transcripts;
- Observing during client counseling and plea negotiations.
As this is an unpaid position, we encourage you to obtain funding through your school or an outside source. We are happy to work with you to complete any necessary paperwork. Many schools also award academic credit for clerkships. If you are approved for academic credit, we will work with you and your school throughout the process.
The Summer Law Clerkship program runs from June 2 through August 8, 2025.
How to Apply: Interested law students must apply by March 7, 2025 at 5pm CST. Please apply here. Applications must include the online application, cover letter/statement of interest, writing sample, resume, and transcript. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted for further information. No phone calls please.
OPD is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, political affiliation, or genetic information.
OPD’s mission is to fight for our clients by providing excellent client-centered representation, reforming the system and partnering with the community. OPD is committed to representation that respects the humanity and dignity of those within the criminal legal system.
