Public Defender Trainee & Law Clerk

Montgomery County, Pennsylvania; Norristown (Montgomery County); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Montgomery County is seeking qualified candidates for its Fall 2027 class of Assistant Public Defenders. This role is designed for law graduates not yet admitted to the bar, who will serve as Law Clerks with training, shadowing and research until bar results are released.

Upon passing the bar, candidates transition to the full Assistant Public Defender role; if the bar is not passed on the first attempt, there is a second opportunity. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from ABA-accredited law school.
• Taken or scheduled to take the Pennsylvania Bar Examination or Uniform Bar Exam, with the intention to practice law in Pennsylvania.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system.
• Strong legal research, writing, organizational, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to public service.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Criminal justice knowledge

Legal research

Legal writing

Organization

Communication

Public service

Client relationships

Education

Juris Doctorate from ABA-accredited law school

Job description

Montgomery County is seeking qualified candidates for its Fall 2027 class of Assistant Public Defenders. This role is designed for law graduates not yet admitted to the bar, who will serve as Law Clerks with training, shadowing and research until bar results are released.

Upon passing the bar, candidates transition to the full Assistant Public Defender role; if the bar is not passed on the first attempt, there is a second opportunity. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.