Public Defender Law Clerk Trainee (Fall 2027)

Montgomery County (PA); Norristown (Montgomery County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Montgomery County Office of the Public Defender seeks the Fall 2027 class of Assistant Public Defenders. This program targets graduates who have completed law school but are not yet admitted to the bar, serving as Law Clerks with comprehensive training, then transitioning to the full Assistant Public Defender role after passing the bar.

Candidates may be allowed a second attempt at the bar. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and involves initial training, shadowing,

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school.

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

Legal research

Legal writing

Communication

Public service

Education

Juris Doctorate

Job description

Montgomery County Office of the Public Defender seeks the Fall 2027 class of Assistant Public Defenders. This program targets graduates who have completed law school but are not yet admitted to the bar, serving as Law Clerks with comprehensive training, then transitioning to the full Assistant Public Defender role after passing the bar.

Candidates may be allowed a second attempt at the bar. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and involves initial training, shadowing,