What are the responsibilities and job description for the Undergraduate Internship position at Defender Association of Philadelphia?
Considering a career in law or interested in criminal justice? Our general undergraduate internship offers hands on learning, skill development, client interaction, and career exploration and development. Our undergrad interns work within our various criminal defense units such as our Mental Health Unit, Drug Treatment Court, Children Youth Justice Unit, gaining broad exposure to the legal and criminal justice systems. Interns work closely with some of the best advocates in the city, learning the intricacies of supporting and advocating for people as they navigate the nuanced challenges of the criminal legal system. Time commitments vary by unit. This is an unpaid internship for academic credit. However, we can be a site for work study.
This internship may not be suitable for everyone. Some find criminal law emotionally demanding due to exposure to trauma and cases that may conflict with their values. Providing high-quality legal representation means meeting our clients where they are—whether in prisons, juvenile placements, state hospitals, or chaotic courtrooms. If you're uncomfortable with these realities, you may struggle with our client-centered model. In that case, this may not be the right placement for you.
If our mission to provide outstanding legal representation to the city’s most vulnerable interests you, please complete the application process. However, recognize that while we are always accepting applications, internship opportunities are based on semesters, and the need and capacity of the Defender. Additionally, given the robust nature of these internships, they are highly competitive.
Qualifications:
- Attend an accredited four-year institution, preference given to seniors in related fields
- Experience or interest in serving racially and socioeconomically – oppressed clients and communities
- Complete application and questionnaire
- Commit to be on-site for at least 15 – 20 hours a week
This application is for students that are not currently enrolled in a BSW, MSW, or JD program. If you are enrolled in one of the forenamed programs, please see separate internship postings. Undergraduate internships are always hiring on a rolling basis. In other words, candidates are always being assessed and potential candidates will be contacted directly for available positions.
