CLSSD INTERNSHIPS
LEGAL INTERNSHIPS / STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES
SPRING/FALL UNPAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
CLS welcomes second- and third-year law students (2Ls and 3Ls) who are interested in gaining practical legal experience and learning more about representing children and families in the dependency court system. Through our student internship program, interns have the opportunity to learn from experienced attorneys and gain insight into the day-to-day work of dependency law.
Interns are paired with an attorney and gain experience in various aspects of client representation, including case review, client interviews, and, for those eligible to participate in the State Bar of California’s Practical Training of Law Students (PTLS) program, appearing on the record. The internship provides an opportunity to strengthen legal skills, explore public interest law, and learn about the important role attorneys play in advocating for children and families.
The student internship is unpaid. Students interested in receiving academic credit should consult with their law school regarding applicable requirements and arrangements.
CLS posts the position on its Careers page in June (Spring) and December (Fall) of the preceding year.
*USD School of Law applicants: This internship may be completed for academic credit through the Dependency Practicum offered by USD's Children's Advocacy Institute (CAI). USD Law students interested in applying should contact Professor Jessica Heldman at jheldman@sandiego.edu to learn about course requirements and coordinate registration if selected.
POST-BAR LAW CLERK PROGRAM
CLS’s Post-Bar Law Clerk Program offers recent law school graduates an opportunity to build practical legal skills and gain meaningful, hands-on experience serving children and families involved in the dependency court system. The 12-week program runs from August through November and is designed for graduates planning to take the July California Bar Examination. CLS posts the position on its Careers page in October of the preceding year.
Post-Bar Law Clerks are paired with an attorney who provides guidance and mentorship as they learn about the many aspects of client representation. Throughout the program, clerks have opportunities to review cases, interview clients, and appear on the record, gaining valuable experience as they prepare to begin their legal careers. Clerks are also expected to participate in the State Bar of California’s Practical Training of Law Students (PTLS) program.
Post-Bar Law Clerks receive an hourly salary $30/hr and employee benefits for the duration of the program. We welcome applicants who are eager to learn, grow their advocacy skills, and contribute to CLS’s work on behalf of children and families.
Children’s Legal Services of San Diego, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, age, or gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
While we make every effort to respond to applicants promptly, our commitment to client-focused nonprofit work may sometimes impact response times. Thank you for your understanding and for your interest in joining our mission.