Externship Program

The Imperial County Superior Court Externship Program is a four-week immersive experience designed to provide college and law students with hands-on exposure to courtroom practice and legal procedures. Under the supervision of Superior Court Judges, externs will have the opportunity to observe court proceedings, engage in legal research, and develop critical writing and analytical skills.

This year’s program will feature a hybrid structure, incorporating both in-person and virtual components to accommodate participants with varying schedules.

Program Goals & Responsibilities

Externs will be paired with a judicial mentor who will guide them through legal research and writing projects, including drafting an order or decision under judicial supervision. Participants will:

• Attend and observe civil and criminal court proceedings
• Engage in research and writing assignments related to active court matters
• Receive one-on-one feedback from their assigned judicial officer
• Participate in group discussions and debriefings with judges and court staff

Eligibility & Requirements

Applicants must: 

• Be enrolled in an undergraduate or law school program 

• Complete an online application 

• Pass a criminal background check 

• Attend a mandatory orientation (in-person or virtual)

Application Materials (to be submitted online):

• Statement of interest
• Resume
• Two (2) letters of recommendation

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Candidates will be notified via email regarding selection and orientation details.

Program Schedule & Structure

The externship will run from Monday, July 7, 2025, through Friday, August 1, 2025. 

• Flexible Hours/Schedule: Externs will coordinate their individual schedules with their assigned judicial officer, balancing courtroom observation, research, and writing assignments.

• Judicial Research & Writing: Each extern will work on a legal research project, drafting an order or decision under the guidance of their assigned judge.

• Weekly Open Forum with the Presiding Judge: Once a week, externs will meet with the Presiding Judge during the lunch hour for an informal discussion, providing an opportunity to ask questions, reflect on experiences, and gain insight into judicial decision-making.

• Appellate & Federal Court Experience: Time permitting, externs will:

  • Attend oral argument sessions at the Fourth District Court of Appeal
  • Observe proceedings at the U.S. Magistrate Court in El Centro
  • Participate in a possible Zoom discussion with Federal District Court Judges and/or California Supreme Court Justices  

Additional Information

• This is an unpaid externship opportunity. 
• Externs must comply with all court security and confidentiality protocols.
• Location: Criminal Courthouse, 650 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243