Federal Government Agencies

Federal Public Defender  – Trial Unit (1 position)

The Federal Public Defender of Arkansas operates under the authority of the Criminal Justice Act to provide legal representation to indigent persons in federal proceedings and related matters upon appointment by the United States District Courts. The Trial Unit represents persons charged with federal offenses and who cannot afford retained counsel. An extern in the Trial Unit will work exclusively on serious felony cases. Responsibilities include assisting trial lawyers with the preparation and presentation of defense motions and legal arguments in federal district court.

Education, training, or experience in the fields of psychology, psychiatry, social work and/or education is desirable, but not necessary. Successful completion of courses in criminal procedure also would be beneficial prior to beginning this externship, but it is not required. Strong research ability, people skills, initiative, interest in criminal-defense work, and a commitment to equal justice are required. The Trial Unit will interview students recommended for an externship prior to final approval of the placement.

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Legal Unit (1 position)

The EEOC Legal Unit is charged with the responsibility of litigating individual and class employment discrimination cases in the federal courts on behalf of employees and job applicants. EEOC seeks law students with a commitment to public interest law and EEOC’s mission. We give preference to students with a demonstrated commitment to civil rights and/or who have completed course work in employment discrimination, employment law, evidence, or trial practice. Law student externs assist with various aspects of litigation and litigation development. Assignments typically include legal research and writing relating to employment discrimination and general federal practice issues such as discovery, trial practice, and evidence. Externs may also be involved with interviewing claimants, drafting discovery demands or responses, summarizing deposition testimony, attending depositions and court conferences, analyzing documents, using litigation support software, and assisting with outreach projects. Externs also assist attorneys and other EEOC staff with investigating and analyzing charges of discrimination before litigation. Local EEOC staff attorneys will interview any student recommended for placement prior to final approval.