Law Clerk Intern- Corporation Counsel

Oakland County; Pontiac (MI); On-site; USD 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Oakland County internships offer hands-on legal experience on a variety of matters in a county government setting. The role supports attorneys in research, document preparation, and discovery, while gaining exposure to FOIA responses and policy work.

The internship begins Summer 2027 and is onsite, with a focus on real legal work, courtroom exposure, and professional growth within a mission-driven public service environment.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in Law School.
• Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research and analyze statutes, judicial decisions, and legal sources.
• Draft and prepare legal documents, including briefs and pleadings.
• Provide litigation support and participate in discovery and FOIA responses.
• Maintain case documentation and use case management software.

Skills

Legal research

Legal analysis

Education

Law School enrollment

Job description

Overview & Benefits Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents. When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit: https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

$19.17-$22.36

This position is onsite.

The anticipated start date for this internship is Summer 2027.

What You’ll Do:

• Conduct Legal Research & Analysis
  • Research statutes, judicial decisions, legal codes, constitutions, and secondary legal sources
  • Analyze legal issues and prepare written legal analysis, opinions, and summaries
  • Support attorneys in determining case strategy and legal direction
  • Attend meetings with County officials in policy making positions
• Draft & Prepare Legal Documents
  • Assist in preparing legal documents, including briefs, pleadings, and contract-related documents
  • Support attorneys in discovery preparation
  • Assist in formulating Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) responses
• Provide Litigation & Case Support
  • Assist attorneys at various stages of litigation, which may include trial preparation
  • Attend court hearings and depositions with attorneys
• Administrative & Technical Responsibilities
  • Utilize county-wide and department-specific software
  • Maintain accurate case documentation and records by utilizing case management system

Why You’ll Love It:

• Real Legal Work – You won’t just observe. You’ll conduct research, draft documents, and contribute to active legal matters.
• Courtroom & Litigation Exposure – Gain practical insight into litigation strategy in a public sector setting.
• Broad Legal Experience – Work on diverse issues including contracts, litigation, FOIA, and policy matters.
• Mentorship & Professional Growth – Collaborate closely with experienced government attorneys committed to developing future legal professionals.
• Mission-Driven Impact – Your work supports the departments that provide essential county services that affect thousands of residents.
• Professional Office Environment – Be immersed in a collaborative, in-person setting that mirrors real-world legal practice.

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be enrolled in Law School.
• Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.

Union* *If applicable

Essential Job Functions

Conducts research to identify the appropriate laws, judicial decisions, legal articles, and other material relevant to the assigned issue.

Analyzes information and prepares written recommendations used by the attorney to decide how the case should be handled.

Prepares or assists attorneys in preparing legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, contracts, and deeds using specialized software.

Maintains files of case documents and correspondence.

Utilizes current county-wide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

Additional Duties & Responsibilities

• Assists preparing discovery to send to defense counsel.
• Assists in the preparation of FOIA responses.
• May obtain affidavits and assist the attorney during trial.

Essential Mental & Physical Requirements

Ability to communicate, operate office equipment, handle supplies, and to prepare written documents.

Working Conditions

Work is carried out in a typical office environment. May participate in activities that require driving or being a passenger in an automobile.

Important Note:

The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace.

All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD. At Oakland County, we offer a stable and supportive work environment, competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, professional development, and generous education assistance program. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. We are always seeking new ways to enhance our workplace and foster a culture of growth, inclusion, and innovation. We believe that our people are our greatest asset, and our future depends on the diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents of our team. Join us on our mission to keep Oakland County a vibrant place to live, work, and play.