Organization Overview: - **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** (BDS) is a public defense office representing low-income New Yorkers in criminal, family, immigration, and civil legal matters - Focused on the intersection of legal systems impacting Black and Brown communities living below the poverty level in Brooklyn - Provides interdisciplinary teams of attorneys, social workers, and advocates to address diverse legal needs - Offers a wide range of legal and advocacy services, including housing, public benefits, education, and employment issues
Internship Details: - Full-time, unpaid summer internships for current law students - Limited number of paid internships may be available - Opportunity to work collaboratively with attorneys, social workers, paralegals, and administrative staff - Develop and hone skills relevant to public defense - Receive training, mentorship, and courtroom experience - Demonstrated commitment to public defense and social justice is preferred
Criminal Defense Practice Internship: - Comprehensive training program including substantive legal and practical skills training - Assigned to work with at least two staff attorneys - Receive intensive supervision and feedback on work - Tasks include interviewing clients, researching legal issues, drafting motions, and preparing for hearings and trial - Student practice order allows for court appearances under supervision of an admitted attorney - 10-week program from June 2nd to August 8th, 2025
Application Instructions: - Interested students should email a cover letter and resume to **MEMBERS ONLY**SIGN UP NOW*** - Include “BDS Summer 2025 Intern” in the subject line - Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the intern class is filled - Only applicants invited for interviews will be contacted
