The internship enables college students to gain first-hand exposure to the criminal justice system and local law enforcement in the borough of Manhattan. Students work closely with Assistant District Attorneys and other staff who are investigating and prosecuting criminal cases, providing support to crime victims, assisting with investigations, and analyzing pending legislation, among other tasks. Internship assignments will be based upon the student’s interests, skills, and the needs of the office.
Internship Prerequisites
Applicants should have a solid academic record, but we consider academic performance to be only one indicator of an applicant’s potential. Equally important are the qualities of personal character, integrity, judgment, and maturity. Prior leadership experience and a demonstrated commitment to public service and the community are valued qualities. We encourage students to have taken at least one criminal law-related class. United States citizenship is not required for internship placement.
As with all employment, the office is firmly committed to a policy against discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or employment status. Given the diverse nature of our community, the ability to work with people of different backgrounds is critical. In addition, the office seeks to have staff that reflects the diversity of the community that we serve. To that end, we actively recruit minority applicants.
See below for more information about our Semester and Summer Opportunities. If you have or will receive your undergraduate degree before the internship program begins, click here for other opportunities at our office.
Semester Internships
Depending on the assignment, students may assist in investigations, hearings and trials; prepare, compile and analyze legal and non-legal documents and financial data; perform research, observe witness interviews, participate in community outreach programs and attend trials.
- Time Commitment: Students will be required to work at least one full day and a half day totaling a minimum of 12-15 hours weekly throughout the course of the semester, with a minimum twelve week commitment to the internship.
- All semester internships are for academic credit. Please see your college Internship Coordinator for more information.
- Eligibility: Students must have completed their freshman year to be eligible for internship placement.
Summer Internship Program
Depending on the assignment, students may assist in investigations, hearings and trials; prepare, compile and analyze legal and non-legal documents and financial data; perform research, observe witness interviews, participate in community outreach programs and attend trials. The program also includes a variety of educational programs and activities, including a weekly Lecture Series, Brown Bag Lunch Discussions, a Mock Appellate Argument exercise, and a visit the New York City Police Department’s Tactical Training Facility.
- Time Commitment: Students will be required to work full-time during the ten week program. The program begins the first Monday in June. There is a weekly stipend.
- Eligibility: College sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply to the summer internship program. Applicants must have completed a minimum of two years of college by the time the internship commences.
To apply for a college internship position click on ”Application Process” below. We strongly encourage you to review the FAQ section for more information about our application process.