The Office of Defense Services (ODS) offers unpaid internships statewide in the spring, summer, and fall annually. ODS provides defense attorneys for people accused of crimes who cannot afford to hire their own lawyers and maintains offices in New Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties. Attorneys with ODS defend adults and youth who have been charged with crimes in Delaware. The guiding principle at ODS is that financial means is not a barrier to obtaining zealous legal representation. Our mission is: zealous advocacy for the people. ODS’ commitment to improving the justice system extends beyond the courtroom. Attorneys and staff with ODS frequently engage in community outreach events and robust public advocacy.

If you are interested in applying for an unpaid internship with the Office of Defense Services, please email your resume and cover letter to ODS_Interns@delaware.gov.

In your cover letter, please specify if you are applying for spring, summer, or fall, your availability (days/hours), and county of interest. In addition, if you are seeking course credit for your internship and have reporting or supervisory requirements with which our office must comply, please include that information.

Due to budgetary constraints, all of our internships are unpaid. Interns are responsible for obtaining transportation and parking on their own. In addition, interns will need to have access to their own computer. Interns are encouraged to obtain financial assistance through work-study, grants or other sources. Academic credits may be available upon completion of some of the internships. Please contact your university.

Overview

The ODS College Internship Program aims to expose interns to all facets of criminal defense practice and the criminal justice system. Positions are available in all three counties.

Through court observation and shadowing opportunities, interns will see first-hand various legal proceedings and the day-to-day practice of legal professionals. Interns will also be exposed to holistic defense practice through working with our ancillary professionals and participating in our community engagement efforts. Additionally, interns are tasked with completing independent research projects to advance all areas of public defense. Interns will also learn about Second Chance Litigation through our post disposition practice. All candidates must pass a criminal background check. Onboarding and training will be provided at the start of the internship.

Duties

• Research and Writing Projects
• Court Observation and Shadowing
• Document Review
• Observe Legislative Hearings
• Assist with Post Disposition Work
• Attend Community Engagement Events
• Create Client Resources
• Attend Speaker Events

Where

There are opportunities in all three counties; New Castle (Wilmington); Kent (Dover); and Sussex (Georgetown). Offices hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday. However, your schedule can be flexible to meet the needs of your other requirements.

When

Spring: February to May

Summer: June to August

Fall: September to December

How to Apply?

We are currently accepting applications for the fall 2025 program!

To apply, submit your resume and cover letter to: ODS_Interns@delaware.gov.