Law Student Volunteer Internship – Apply Now for Summer 2026 Opportunity.
About the Organization / Office
The United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Colorado is a federal law enforcement office representing the United States and its agencies in civil and criminal litigation. The office prosecutes federal criminal offenses, litigates civil suits both affirmatively and defensively, and ensures restitution for victims and taxpayers. Located at 1801 California Street, Denver, Colorado, the USAO-District of Colorado works across multiple divisions to uphold justice and the rule of law.
This internship offers law students a unique opportunity to gain experience in one of the nation’s most respected federal legal offices. Interns are mentored by Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) and work on complex legal issues, gaining exposure to both civil and criminal matters. The office emphasizes professional development in a mission-driven, collaborative, and collegial environment, providing interns with the practical skills needed for a successful legal career.
The law student volunteer internship at USAO-District of Colorado is ideal for law students seeking hands-on legal experience, including litigation, research, drafting, and courtroom observation, preparing candidates for careers in federal law, prosecution, and public service.
About the Internship / Opportunity
This Law Student Volunteer Internship offers participants the opportunity to work directly with AUSAs from various divisions across the office. Interns will:
- Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, briefs, and other substantive legal documents
- Assist with factual investigations and case preparation
- Observe court proceedings, depositions, and moots
- Gain practical exposure to both civil and criminal litigation
Interns are expected to commit to at least six weeks of service during Summer 2026, although start and end dates are negotiable. The program is unpaid, but interns may be eligible for course credit or work-study credit depending on their law school requirements.
This internship is particularly suited for high-achieving law students interested in federal litigation, public service law, and legal research. Interns will gain practical insight into federal legal processes, courtroom procedures, and professional legal writing.
Event Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | ASAP |
| Application Deadline | February 21, 2026 |
| Internship Period | Summer 2026 |
Location and Mode
Mode: Offline (In-office at federal office)
Location / Address: USAO District of Colorado, 1801 California St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Format and Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Minimum 6 weeks |
| Working Hours | As per office schedule, full-time preferred |
| Supervisor / Mentor | Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) assigned to interns |
Eligibility & Requirements
To qualify for the Law Student Volunteer Internship, candidates must:
- Be first-, second-, or third-year law students enrolled in an accredited JD program, taking at least a half-time academic course load
- Have outstanding academic records and superior writing skills
- Be United States citizens or owe permanent allegiance to the U.S.
- Successfully complete a federal background investigation to determine suitability
- Sign a Volunteer Participant Agreement
Law graduates are not eligible. Interns should be highly motivated, professional, and eager to gain hands-on experience in federal legal processes. This opportunity is ideal for law students seeking exposure to practical law, courtroom procedures, and federal litigation under experienced mentors.
Additional Highlights
- Certificate of Completion upon successful conclusion of the internship
- Unpaid internship; however, course or work-study credit may be possible
- Mentorship by experienced federal attorneys (AUSAs)
- Networking opportunities and professional exposure in a federal legal office
- Experience in both civil and criminal federal litigation, enhancing practical legal knowledge
FAQs about Law Student Volunteer Internship
1. Who can apply for this internship?
Law students enrolled in JD programs (first, second, or third year) in accredited universities who are United States citizens or owe permanent allegiance are eligible. Law graduates cannot apply.
2. Is this internship paid or unpaid?
This is a volunteer, unpaid internship. Course credit or work-study credit may be available depending on the law school’s requirements.
3. What is the last date to apply?
Applications will close by February 21, 2026, or sooner if positions are filled.
4. What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates must submit a cover letter, resume (max 2 pages), and law school transcript/proof of enrollment. A background investigation is required for selection.
5. Will I receive a certificate after completion?
Yes, interns will receive a Certificate of Completion upon successfully completing the internship.
6. What type of work will interns perform?
Interns will assist AUSAs in legal research, drafting memoranda, investigating facts, observing court proceedings, depositions, and participating in moots.
Important Links
- Application Email and Instructions– usaco.internships@usdoj.gov
- USAO District of Colorado Official Website
Downloadables
- Sample Cover Letter Templates
Contact Information
- Email: usaco.internships@usdoj.gov
- Address: 1801 California St, Denver, CO 80202, USA