Public Defender Law Clerk — Trainee Attorney

Montgomery County Pennsylvania; Norristown (Montgomery County); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Collective bargaining agreement

Job summary

Montgomery County Office of the Public Defender in Pennsylvania seeks candidates for its Fall 2027 class of Assistant Public Defenders. The program is designed for law graduates awaiting bar admission, who will serve as Law Clerks with training and supervision.

Upon passing the bar, roles transition to Assistant Public Defender; exceptions for retakes allowed. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and promises structured opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of the criminal justice system.
• Strong legal research, writing, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to public service.
• Ability to manage a demanding workload and build strong client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Participate in structured training programs designed to build the knowledge and skills necessary for the role of Assistant Public Defender.
• Accompany and observe experienced attorneys across the phases of legal proceedings to gain practical experience.
• Conduct legal research and draft motions, briefs, and other legal documents under the supervision of experienced attorneys.
• Engage with clients, including visiting incarcerated clients, to understand their cases, gather information, and provide case updates.
• Assist in the direct representation of clients from the inception of legal proceedings through their completion.
• Upon admission to the bar, transition to the full role and responsibilities of an Assistant Public Defender.
• If the bar examination is not passed on the first attempt, continue to support the Office in the Law Clerk capacity while preparing for the next examination.

Skills

Criminal justice knowledge

Legal research

Legal writing

Client relations

Education

Juris Doctorate from ABA-accredited law school

Job description

Montgomery County Office of the Public Defender in Pennsylvania seeks candidates for its Fall 2027 class of Assistant Public Defenders. The program is designed for law graduates awaiting bar admission, who will serve as Law Clerks with training and supervision.

Upon passing the bar, roles transition to Assistant Public Defender; exceptions for retakes allowed. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and promises structured opportunities for professional growth.