Legal Department Intern/Extern

A career with Johnson County Government is more than just a job, it is an opportunity to serve a diverse and expanding community in meaningful ways. We challenge ourselves to be a different kind of government because we care deeply about our community and each other. Committed to our shared values, we provide excellent public service, seeking always to improve ourselves and our organization. We offer wonderful benefits, retirement plans, wellness incentives, a great organizational culture, and much more! If you’re searching for something more than just a job, something akin to a calling, then consider the challenge and opportunity of being a member of Johnson County Government!

The Johnson County Legal Department provides legal advice, services, and representation to Johnson County Government on all civil legal matters involving the Board of County Commissioners and the County Manager’s Office, as well as county agencies, departments, and boards.  We collaborate with departments, agencies, and offices to provide the legal support needed for the county to meet its priorities and provide programs and services to the community. 

The externship/internship program with the Legal Department of Johnson County Government provides learning and working experience for students who are in their 2^nd or 3^rd year of law school interested in pursuing the study of law in County government.  Students have an opportunity to gain practical experience in representing county agencies and departments by assisting attorneys with legal research and drafting policy, regulations, resolutions, contracts, memoranda of law and attending County governing body and committee meetings. Additionally, 3^rd year law students are eligible under Rule 719 of the Kansas Supreme Court Rules, for limited practice of law allowing a student to make supervised appearances in administrative or code violation hearings providing a law student the opportunity to gain practical trial skills.

A student is assigned to a supervising attorney who provides direction and oversight to the student. We offer paid or unpaid internships/externships as well as an option to intern for school credit with approval of the University.  Typically, students start as an unpaid extern for school credit and work towards a paid internship.  Students are limited to 10 hours a week and 30 hours a week during the summer. Paid internships range from $20 to $25  per hour.   Students are encouraged to attend administrative hearings as the extern/intern's work schedule allows. 

How to Apply:

Students interested in an externship/internship should submit resumes and a cover letter of interest through the applicant tracking system at jocogov.org/careers.

Law students who are in their 2^nd or 3^rd year of law school interested in pursuing the study of law in County government.