The Federal Public Defender (FPD) is accepting applications for its Trial Investigator Extern Program. The goal of the program is to provide graduate and post graduate students with the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and experience in the field of criminal defense by working with investigators in the Trial Unit of the FPD. This externship position is unpaid. Exact assignments will depend on the needs of the investigator unit and office. Skills that externs are expected to have acquired include:

• Having a basic understanding of an investigator’s role in preparing a helping prepare a case for trial.
• Locating and interviewing witnesses.
• Interview memo writing.
• Methods for obtaining, deciphering, and organizing records and discovery.
• Using Open-Source Intelligence Techniques (OSINT).
• Serving subpoenas.

The FPD seeks applicants with an interest in providing passionate, high-quality defense advocacy to indigent individuals. Critical thinking skills and a creative approach to problem solving are essential to the internship. Some legal knowledge or investigative experience is required. Ideal candidates will possess the following qualifications:

• Prior experience interning or externing at a Public Defender’s Office at the state, county, or federal level.
• Familiarity with federal or state court systems.
• Postgraduate status or currently pursuing a graduate degree in the social sciences (e.g., criminology, sociology, psychology, or a related field).

This is a 6-month temporary position beginning November 10th, 2025, ending May 4th, 2026. A minimum of 2 days per week at our Los Angeles office is required. Scheduling is flexible.

Applicants must submit a letter of interest, a resume, two professional references and unofficial transcripts by October 10th, 2025, through our career page website Current Openings - FPDCDCA. Late applications may be reviewed but are not guaranteed consideration. Externship candidates will be contacted for an interview.