The Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia (OAG) seeks highly qualified undergraduate and graduate students to work as volunteer interns during the academic year and summer vacation. OAG’s internship program provides students with a challenging experience that reflects the demands and rewards of public service. Each year OAG recruits a diverse population of interns from educational institutions across the United States, as well as internationally. OAG has a wide-ranging practice area that offers students an array of interest areas to select from.

Interning at OAG is a great experience! You will get involved in a variety of interesting legal tasks, such as assisting attorneys with legal research, motions, advice memos, discovery, and trial. On any given day you may be researching, gathering documents, answering interrogatories, or taking notes during a witness deposition. Or, you may be needed to assist attorneys at trial or a hearing and see first hand how to select a jury, or make a dynamic opening statement.

Many OAG interns find themselves in the midst of newsworthy and politically charged cases. You will also participate in several field trips, including tours of the DC jail, the MPD headquarters/training academy, and a visit to the District of Columbia Court of Appeals to view an oral argument. In addition, you will have the opportunity to attend presentations from OAG attorneys on topics such as case law regarding environmental issues, ethics, opening and closing statements, taking depositions, domestic violence, child protection, criminal and juvenile prosecution, and appellate advocacy.

Law student interns will also develop legal writing and research skills with training in Lexis research, and practicing how to apply various federal, state and common laws to cases. You will develop your legal writing skills by drafting motions, advice memos, mediation statements and case briefs.

Our interns speak highly of their rich work experience at OAG—working hands on with attorneys, paralegals and other law students, while enjoying the sights and sounds of the nation’s capital. It is no surprise that many students following law school decide to apply to our office for permanent positions.

Selection Criteria and Process

Internships are open to undergraduate, graduate and law students in good academic standing. The selection process for the Internship Program is highly competitive. Candidates are selected based on scholastic achievement and demonstrated leadership.

Internships are unique and tailored to each student's needs, interests and schedule. We will talk with you to learn about your interests, skills, experience, preparation and training. After receiving the completed application and supporting documents, the internship coordinator will contact you to arrange a suitable placement that is mutually beneficial. You may be sent additional forms to complete the process.

Open Postings

How to Apply

You’ll need the following:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume
  • Writing sample, 3 to 5 pages in length
  • Transcripts (Unofficial transcript acceptable)
  • Completed Ethnic/Racial Self-Identification Form (optional)

Because OAG receives numerous applications, we request that students only fill out one complete application. Submitting either duplicate applications or incomplete applications may affect efficient processing of your application.

For questions, please contact:

Keya Ross, Internship and Summer Associates Coordinator

Phone: (202) 724-2308

Fax: (202) 741-8876

Email: OAG.Internship@dc.gov

Deadline for Applications

The application deadlines are below. We will also continue to accept applications and place interns after these deadlines if space is available.

Semester

Application Deadlines

Fall

July 31

Spring

November 30

Summer

March 1

Because OAG conducts a formal mandatory orientation on the first day for Interns and Summer Associates, we cannot change our start dates.

Related Content:

Ethnic/Racial Self-Identification Form