The Law Offices of the Public Defender, County of Riverside, are currently recruiting law students to apply for our Summer and Post Bar law clerk programs. Law clerks work directly with our attorneys in court, representing indigent clients in misdemeanor and felony criminal cases. Law clerks also assist attorneys with research and writing projects, motion work, and trial preparation. Our program provides opportunities for clerks to work with specialized units within the office, including Mental Health, Immigration, Domestic Violence, Juvenile and Complex Litigation Units.
Volunteer Experience
Law clerks who are eligible for certification under the rules of the State Bar may appear in court, on the record, under the supervision of deputy public defenders. In past years, our certified law clerks have argued motions, conducted preliminary hearings and participated in jury trials under supervision.
In addition to practical experience working with the attorneys, law clerks participate in training seminars on criminal law, ethics, and trial practice.
Our Summer and Post Bar law clerk positions are unpaid volunteer positions. Summer law clerk applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited law school. Post Bar applicants must be 3L candidates awaiting graduation from an accredited law school prior to the commencement of the clerkship. All applicants must pass a background check. Ideal candidates should have a demonstrated interest in criminal law, trial practice, or public service, and have a desire to work with indigent and underserved communities.
Upcoming Volunteer Dates
We are accepting law clerk applicants for our Riverside, Banning, Southwest (Murrieta) and Coachella Valley (Indio) offices.
Unfortunately, we are not accepting Volunteer Interns this year.
Program dates and deadlines are as follows:
Volunteer Program Dates
2026 Schedule
Summer Law Clerks – Application deadline February 28th, 2026
Start: Monday, June 1st 2026
End: Thursday August 6, 2026
Post Bar Law Clerks – Application deadline February 28th, 2026
Start: Monday, August 17, 2026
End: Thursday November 5, 2026
To find out more about volunteering for the County of Riverside, please visit the Riverside County Human Resources Volunteer page