Credits: 3

The U.S. Attorney’s Office offers externs the opportunity to observe and assist federal prosecutors engaged in criminal, civil and appellate practice in the federal courts. Under the supervision of experienced trial lawyers, students assist in researching and resolving substantive legal issues arising in the context of federal prosecutions and, occasionally, civil practice. The program provides externs with an understanding of the federal judicial system, an opportunity to improve legal research and writing skills, and the opportunity to observe pretrial preparation and motion/trial practice.

Casework at most offices is primarily in criminal court. Depending on current cases, externship duties may include: observing hearings, trials and other public court proceedings; assisting attorneys in charging decisions by providing research and memoranda on legal issues (e.g. venue, affirmative defenses, suppression issues) that arise during the process of charging a criminal case; assisting attorneys in trial preparation by drafting motions in limine, responses to defense motions, jury instructions, and researching other legal issues that arise prior to and during the trial of a criminal or civil case; and, occasionally, drafting appellate briefs and responses to habeas petitions and other post-conviction requests for relief.