Intern (Paid) - Public Defender

County of Berks; Reading (Berks County); On-site; USD 36,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

County of Berks is seeking a Research & Writing professional to support legal representation at all stages. The role emphasizes meticulous legal research, drafting memoranda, and assisting with data entry in a court-adjacent office environment.

Candidates should have admission to an accredited law school and strong knowledge of PA criminal law, with proficiency in Westlaw/Lexis Nexis and Windows software. The position requires independence and professional communication.

Qualifications

• General knowledge of PA Criminal Law.
• Familiarity with Westlaw or Lexis Nexis legal research.
• Ability to use Windows-based computer programs.
• Possess good oratory skills and decision-making skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to handle stress; Physical presence in the office.

Responsibilities

• Researching legal issues and drafting a memorandum on legal issues.
• Aiding Attorney data entry.
• Miscellaneous typing and data entry.

Skills

Oratory skills

Interpersonal skills

Stress management

Independent work

Windows-based software

Legale research awareness

Education

Admission to Accredited Law School

Tools

Westlaw / Lexis Nexis

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Research & writing at all stages of legal representation.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Functions

• The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to:
• Researching legal issues & drafting a memorandum on legal issues.
• Aiding Attorney data entry.
• Miscellaneous typing and data entry.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Admission to Accredited Law School.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• General knowledgeof PA Criminal Law.
• Familiarity with Westlaw or Lexis Nexis legal research.
• Ability to use Windows-based computer programs.
• Possess good oratory skills and decision-making skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills,
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to handle stress.Physical presence in the office.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Will frequently be required to sit for extended periods of time, stand, walk, talk, and hear. Will work with office equipment, which can create eye strain.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Normal office & court room environment.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position, and may be changed where appropriate.