Public Interest Law
Government and Public Interest Table Talk Attendee Information
Sponsored by:
Career Development, Public Interest Law Program, and PILO
Law Center Commons
February 5, 2010
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Employers who joined us in 2009:
- ACLU of Texas , Houston Regional Office
- Advocacy, Inc.
- Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse
- Anti-Defamation League – Marvin Nathan Fellowship
- Boat People
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF)
- Cabrini Center for Immigrant Legal Assistance
- Center for Children, Law & Policy
- Child Advocates
- Children's Assessment Center
- City of Corpus Christi Legal Department
- City of Houston, Legal Department
- City of Missouri City, City Attorney's Office
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Federal Public Defender
- Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office
- Galveston Bay Foundation
- Galveston-Houston Association for Smog Prevention (GHASP)
- Gulf Region Advocacy Center
- Harris County District Attorney’s Office
- Houston Housing Authority
- Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program (HVLP)
- Howrey Externs for Legal Pro Bono Service (HELPS)
- Human Rights Initiative of North Texas, Legal Department
- IRS Counsel Large Business
- IRS Counsel Small Business
- Justice for Children
- Lone Star Legal Aid
- Montgomery County Women’s Center
- Office of Texas Attorney General - Consumer Protection Division (Houston)
- Social Security Administration
- State Counsel for Offenders, Texas Department of Criminal Justice
- Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)
- Texas Defender Service
- Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Director of Legal Affairs
- U.S. Attorney’s Office
- U. S. Department of Homeland Security - ICE
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- U.S. Naval Reserve
- University of Houston Student Legal Services and Dean of Students Office
- University of Houston System Office of General Counsel
- YMCA International Services, Immigration Counseling Department
ACLU of Texas, Houston Regional Office
Organization Description:
The American Civil Liberties Union("ACLU") is a non-profit organization which was founded and continues to have as its goal the protection of the civil rights and civil liberties guaranteed to every person by the US Constitution
Description of Activities for Students:
Students who work for the ACLU may do either factual or legal research in support of litigation. They may also assist in the drafting of pleadings. Where possible, students may choose to work in Austin or Houston. In either office, they will be supervised by at least one attorney.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring
Academic Intern Summer Academic
Intern
Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 20
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Maida Asofsky
Address: 1214 West Gray, Houston, 77019
EMAIL: masofsky@aclutx.org
Telephone: 713 942 8146
Other Requirements:
Summer interns and fellows are required to work from June 1-August 10. Exceptions are made only under exceptional circumstances.
Organization Description:
Advocacy, Inc. is a non-profit, disability rights firm. We protect and advocate for the legal and human rights of Texans with disabilities. You can access additional information about the specific services we provide at our website: www.advocacyinc.org.
Description of Activities for Students:
Student interns will be able to work cases with attorneys including having client contact, research, preparing demand letters and drafting legal documents including briefs, motions,complaints, discovery and other court pleadings. Interns will be able to shadow attorneys and even have some limited participation in administrative hearings, mediation, court, etc. . . .
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 8/week
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Lucia Romano Ostrom
Address: 1500 McGowen #100 Houston, Texas 77004
EMAIL: lostrom@advocacyinc.org
Telephone: 713-974-7691
Other Requirements:We are interested in students who have a deep interest in all areas of disability law, and are not afraid to jump right in and work with attorneys while they learn how to practice in this exciting area of the law!
Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse
For more information go to http://www.avda-tx.org/.
Anti-Defamation League – Marvin Nathan Fellowship
The Marvin D. Nathan Fellow will be afforded the unique opportunity to participate both in the Anti-Defamation League’s (“ADL”) day-to-day legal work and its day-to-day Regional Office work, serving constituents in the (Southwest, Texas) Houston, Texas area. The incumbent will be expected to participate in both the legal and policy work of the organization, learning how ADL fights anti-Semitism, racism and bigotry, works to build bridges amongst disparate groups, and safeguards the rights of all people.
The fellowship will last between 8-10 weeks, with the student committing to a minimum of 35 hours per week. The award granted to the student will be $500 per week awarded on a monthly basis during the fellowship.
For more information see: www.law.uh.edu/pil/nathanfellowship.html.
Organization Description:
Boat People SOS is a
non-profit service provider. Our mission
is to assist refugees and immigrants in their search for a new life with
liberty and dignity by
equipping and empowering them
in their progress toward the path of self-sufficiency.
We provide a multitude of
programs and services to our clients, including: Immigration Service Center;
Health Awareness Program for Immigrants;
Victims of Exploitation and
Trafficking Assistance; Disaster Relief and Recovery Center; and etc.
In addition, we have three
disaster relief centers in the Gulf coast and at our branch offices to help
evacuees access FEMA Assistance and connect them
to local benefits &
resources.
Please visit our website at www.bpsos.org for additional information.
Description of Activities for Students:
Conduct research projects and
draft memos pertaining to immigration law, landlord-tenant law, and Katrina
related issues.
Conduct extensive research on
human trafficking.
Perform research and write
articles on basic legal rights.
Complete immigration forms.
Act as translator/interpreter. (Optional)
Attend training and human
trafficking conference calls.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic
Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 5
Will accept: 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: An Phong Vo
Address: 11205 Bellaire Blvd., Ste. B-22
EMAIL: anphong.vo@bpsos.org
Telephone: (281) 530-6888
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF)
Organization Description:
ATF is a law enforcement agency within U.S. Department of Justice. It's unique responsibilities include protecting the public and reducing violent crime. ATF enforces the Federal laws and regulations relating to alcohol and tobacco diversion, firearms, explosives and arson. The Office of Division Counsel provides legal advice and training to assist ATF in the legal, ethical and responsible performance of their mission.
Description of Activities for Students:
Intern will research criminal law issues, draft memorandums, draft opinion letters, become familiar with agency procedures and programs, identify issues that need immediate attention and perform other office duties as assigned.
Cabrini Center for Immigrant Legal Assistance
Organization Description:
The St. Frances Cabrini Center for Immigrant Legal Assistance (Cabrini Center) is dedicated to providing high-quality legal services to individuals who would otherwise not be able to obtain legal representation. All services of the Cabrini Center are provided without respect to race or religion. Charges for services vary, with some provided at no charge and others provided for a minimal fee.
Description of Activities for Students:
Law students are exposed to the full spectrum of Cabrini Center’s immigration caseload. A law student may assist the staff attorney with:
1. Asylum cases, both affirmatively through the Houston Asylum Office and defensively with the Immigration Court; 2. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status cases, for juveniles who have been abandoned or abused by their parents in their home countries; 3. Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) cases, for domestic violence survivors to self-petition for immigration benefits; and 4. T visa cases, for victims of human trafficking.
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern
Summer Academic Intern
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Maria Mitchell
Address: 2900 Louisiana Street
EMAIL: mamitchell@catholiccharities.org
Telephone: 713-874-6570
Other Requirements: Foreign language proficiency is a plus. Spanish speaking preferred.
Center for Children, Law & Policy
Organization Description:
The mission of the Center for Children, Law & Policy is to engage in legal and interdisciplinary scholarship, advocacy and teaching to advance the interests of children through public policy.
Description of Activities for Students:
Student interns and volunteers would be involved in conducting legal and academic research on issues involving children and the legal system, networking with local juvenile defense attorneys, and assisting the organization of conferences bringing together academics, practitioners and advocates.
Positions Considered: Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 10
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Malikah Marrus
Address: 100 Law Center
EMAIL: mmarrus@central.uh.edu
Telephone: 713-743-1967
Organization Description:
Child Advocates, Inc. mobilizes court appointed volunteers to break the vicious cycle of child abuse. We speak up for abused children who are lost in the system and guide them into safe environments where they can thrive.
Description of Activities for Students:
Provide critical advocacy for child victims of life-threatening abuse, neglect or abandonment.
Positions Considered: Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 1 year
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: Claire Womack
Address: 2401 Portsmouth
EMAIL: claire.womack@childadvocates.org
Telephone: 713-529-1396 x242
Organization Description:
The Children's Assessment Center’s mission is to protect children by providing a professional, compassionate and coordinated approach to the treatment of sexually abused children and to serve as an advocate for all children in our community.
As a collaboration of Harris County Commissioners’ Court and The Children's Assessment Center Foundation, The CAC represents a true partnership between the public and private sectors for the most effective service delivery to children and families. Located at 2500 Bolsover, our 52,000 square-foot, state–of–the-art facility was specifically designed to provide an environment that will meet each child’s need for warmth, support and protection.
The Children's Assessment Center is an accredited member of the National Children’s Alliance and part of a national movement to create child-friendly intervention systems for sexually abused children. The CAC is one of the largest advocacy centers in the nation. We served 4,708 children and adults in 2007.
The Children's Assessment Center houses professionals from 36 partner agencies, which include law enforcement, a medical clinic, psychological/psychiatric services and governmental investigative entities, all with the common goal of protecting children. Law enforcement agencies gather information from investigative interviews of children, collect evidence for prosecution, and provide protection during the intervention process.
The Children’s Assessment Center provides an array of services designed to meet the physical and emotional needs of sexually abused children, their siblings and non-offending caregivers. We employ bilingual interviewers and clinicians, and contract with those skilled in American Sign Language to ensure that all abused children have access to our services, which includes the following:
• Clinical Social Work Program: Clinical social workers provide guidance to the families of children that have been sexually abused by nonrelatives or individuals living outside their home. These professionals work with law enforcement, legal professionals and therapists to coordinate investigations and treatment services.
• Forensic Services Program: The forensic interviewing program enables children to make their disclosures on videotape, allowing all professionals involved in the case to view the taped statements, rather than subjecting the child to repeated interviews. The forensic interviewer is usually the first professional a child encounters at The CAC after making a disclosure.
• Medical Services: Pediatric physicians administer sexual abuse examinations and rape-evidence collection, utilizing state-of-the-art, non-invasive equipment. This helps minimize the child’s discomfort and fear during the exam and provides videotaped evidence that can be utilized during court hearings.
• Therapy and Psychological Services: The CAC offers a variety of services ranging from crisis intervention and psychological evaluations to group, family and individual therapy of child victims, siblings and non-offending caregivers. Using a holistic approach helps restore the child’s sense of self, comfort and safety. Expressive therapies including play, movement, art and music therapies allow children to express their feelings in creative ways. Therapy teaches children that they are not alone, helps them understand that the abuse is the responsibility of the offender, and ultimately provides a healthy, guilt-free way to avoid long-term trauma. Upon referral, every child is evaluated and therapists, caseworkers, the victim’s family and/or caregivers design a unique, coordinated treatment plan. Regular review meetings are conducted throughout treatment to monitor progress.
Description of Activities for Students:
Qualifications: The Children’s Assessment Center requires a semi-seasoned law student (2nd semester of 1st year or more), who has keen analytical ability and experience reading and interpreting code law (i.e. the Texas penal or family code). The intern must be self-motivating, inquisitive, and able to prioritize numerous tasks and responsibilities. Prior experience or knowledge of the child welfare system, including laws that govern the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (TDPRS) children’s protection division, the judicial system, and other pertinent areas are a plus.
Supervision: Provided by an onsite Assistant Harris County Attorney.
Court Curriculum: The intern will have ample opportunity to work directly with the Harris County Attorney on Children’s Protective Services cases, including custody cases, temporary conservatorship, and cases involving the termination of parental rights. The intern will have opportunities to help prepare cases for hearings and trials and go to court to observe.
CAC Political Curriculum: The legal intern at The CAC will be solely responsible for:
• Developing (or supporting the development of) and tracking legislation pertinent to The CAC, possibly in conjunction with The Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas
• Continuing to build relationships with legislators from Houston, especially those with key positions on committees that will conduct hearings on CAC’s legislation.
• Maintaining close contact with The CAC of Texas and Advocacy Centers around Texas that are working on common legislation
• Working directly with The CAC Executive/Assistant Director throughout the process for feedback and information (i.e. regarding policy decisions or political maneuvering within both the Harris County government or The CAC of Texas
• Researching legislation on the Internet (Texas Legislature Online) that impacts children’s health and welfare, child victims of abuse, perpetrators, adjudication of child abuse cases in the judicial system, or funding for Advocacy Centers, etc.
• Contacting the legislators sponsoring the legislation and the organizations responsible for submitting the legislation to determine if The CAC should advocate for or against it.
• Discussing such research with the Assistant Director or Executive Director before expending an inordinate amount of time on the legislation
• Scheduling meeting dates and times with Harris County legislators throughout the session to be attended by key board members and volunteers, in conjunction with intern and Executive Director or Assistant Director
• Working directly with key senators or representatives aides regarding key committee hearing dates and coordinating efforts to travel to Austin with the Executive Director or Assistant Director for these meetings
• Prepare all supporting documents, fact sheets, charts and spreadsheets pertaining to The CAC’s legislation in packets for legislators and volunteers interested in advocating for The CAC’s legislative agenda
• Reporting the status of such meetings and The CAC’s legislation to the Foundation Board members and Advocacy Committee
Positions Considered: Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 20
Will accept: 1L 2L
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Contact Information:
Name: Karen Kennard
Address: 2500 Bolsover, Houston, TX 77005
EMAIL: karen.kennard@cac.hctx.net
Telephone: 713-986-3530
City of Corpus Christi Legal Department
Organization Description:
The City Attorney’s Office provides all legal services for the City, including ongoing advice to city officials, preparation and review of legal documents, prosecution of persons accused of violating city ordinances and Class C misdemeanor cases, and representation of the City and city officials in lawsuits. The City Attorney manages a law office with 17 attorneys and eight support personnel.
Description of Activities for Students:
Track One: Criminal Prosecution
Student must have at least 45 semester credit hours and eligible to obtain a student bar card. As an intern, student may attend adult and/or juvenile pre-trial hearings and try misdemeanor (traffic and non-traffic) and/or ordinance cases before a judge or jury. Also, student may have an opportunity to do a ride along with the Corpus Christi police and/or code enforcement officers.
Track Two: Civil Litigation and Administrative Law Intern may research legal and/or open government issues; draft and prepare legal documents including ordinances, contracts, pleadings, leases, briefs and/or letters to attorney general to protect confidential information; review medical records, purchasing contracts, and accident reports; and/or respond to Public Information Act (PIA) requests. Also, student may prepare city council agenda items and attend city council meetings, attend board and commission meetings, civil service hearings, depositions, and/or mediation or arbitration.
Track Three: Criminal Prosecution and Administrative Law This is an ideal track for those students who are undecided or just want to experience all aspects of the Legal Department. Half the time will be spent prosecuting cases in municipal courts and the other half doing administrative law at city hall.
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 96
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: T. Trisha Dang
Address: 1201 Leopard Street, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
EMAIL: TrishaD@cctexas.com
Telephone: (361) 826-2530
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Organization Description:
The City Attorney's Office provides legal advice and represents all departments in the City of Houston. The intern in the Land Use division of the Legal Dept. works closely with two experienced environmental attorneys who draft ordinances regarding environmental issues in the City, enforce the ordinances, work closely with the Mayor's office to develop policy and programs to enhance the environment in the city, draft comments on federal and state rules which will affect the city and negotiate settlement agreements with companies who have violated state and local environmental requirements, among other things.
Description of Activities for Students:
The interns who have worked in this office have been involved in all of these kinds of projects, including legal research, attending meetings, meeting council members and drafting memos, comments and ordinances.
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers
Will accept: 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Paulette Wolfson
Address: City Hall Annex
EMAIL: paulette.wolfson@cityofhouston.net
Telephone: 713 437 6708
Other Comments:The environmental law survey course or experience in the field is necessary to qualify for this internship. Some knowledge of administrative law is also helpful.
City of Missouri City, City Attorney's Office
Organization Description:
Legal Department for the City of Missouri City, a municipality located in the Houston area.
Description of Activities for Students:
Draft municipal ordinances and resolutions, Prepare legal briefs and memoranda, Draft contracts and conduct contract review, Draft criminal complaints, Observe in municipal court, Assist Prosecutor with case development.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern
Summer Public Interest Fellow
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Separate Application
Contact Information
Name: Caroline Kelley
Address: 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, TX 77489
EMAIL: ckelley@missouricitytx.gov
Telephone: 281.403.8658
_________________________________________________________________________________
Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Organization Description:
The Houston District Office (HDO)investigates about 6000 charges annually, alleging employment discrimination because of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment and pregnancy), national origin, religion, age (40 and older) and disability (in private and federal sector), retaliation because of protected activity and gender-based wage violations. The HDO Legal Unit, with offices in Houston and New Orleans, consists of 16 staff members including ten attorneys. Jim Sacher, Regional Attorney, is the head of the Legal Unit and Rose Adewale-Mendes and Rudy Sustaita are supervisory trial attorneys. HDO attorneys litigate cases in the federal courts of Southeastern Texas and Louisiana and provide legal advice to HDO investigators during the investigation of charges.
Description of Activities for Students:
The HDO (unpaid) Legal Internship program has been engaged in nurturing law students for over 15 years at its Houston location. Our program provides practical lawyering skills and experience working in a federal field office. Assignments are designed to allow each student to develop and practice counseling and investigative skills. Each student works under the close supervision of one of our attorneys and will likely assist with pretrial discovery and attend depositions. Assignments are supplemented with training videotapes on negotiation skills and trial advocacy skills and with selected reading materials. We seek to expose each student to resources to facilitate developing generic skills the student will use throughout his/her career.
Positions
Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Summer Public Interest Fellow Law Student Volunteers
Will accept: 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
For general information about the EEOC see www.eeoc.gov.
Other Requirements:
Summer interns are expected to work six (6), forty (40)hour weeks.
Fall and Spring interns are expected to work the number of hours required by his/her academic course.
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Description of Organization:
Premier law enforcement agency in the world tasked with protecting the US and its citizens from terrorist attacks. Investigative arm of the Dept of Justice tasked with investigating over 250 federal violations.
Description of Activities for Students:
Comprehensive knowledge of the federal law enforcement process.
Positions Considered:
Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 30/week
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: Raymond Oglesby
Address: 9614 Ashwood Valley
EMAIL: Raymond.Oglesby@ic.fbi.gov
Telephone: 713-479-6206
Other Requirements: Must be a US Citizen and be available to work the whole semester. Also, must have a 3.0 or higher GPA and good credit rating (polygraph and drug test will be administered to all qualified candidates)
Organization Description:
Description of Activities for Students:
Research and write legal memoranda. Assist in preparing for hearings and trials. Meet with clients and witnesses. Some clerical duties.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern
Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 20
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Marjorie Meyers
Address: 440 Louisiana, Suite 310, Houston, Texas 77002
Telephone: 713-718-4600
EMAIL:
Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office
Organization Description:
The Fort Bend County District Attorneys Office prosecutes misdemeanor, felony and juvenile cases in the County and District Courts.
Description of Activities for Students:
Assist prosecutors with cases, including contacting witnesses, researching legal issues, taking pleas, arguing motions, bench and jury trials as first or second chair
Positions
Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Will accept: 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume Separate Application
Organization Description:
The Galveston Bay Foundation is a non-profit organization that has been in existence since 1987. Its mission is to preserve, protect, and enhance the natural resources of Galveston Bay and its tributaries for present users and for posterity. It has four major program areas: advocacy, conservation, education, and research.
In its advocacy role, GBF reviews and monitors projects proposed for around Galveston Bay. When necessary, GBF will participate in litigation aimed to stop or amend a proposed project. It also reviews and potentially comments on all proposed wetland permits for the Galveston region on a monthly basis. Under conservation, GBF works on both small scale and large scale wetlands restoration projects around Galveston Bay. It has preserved, protected, or enhanced over 3,000 acres of wetlands in the Galveston Bay region. Its education programs have both a classroom and an outdoor component and are geared for both students and adults. And finally, its research programs are geared towards ensuring the restoration work it does is successful in the long run.
Description of Activities for Students:
1) Assisting in any ongoing litigation as necessary;
2) Researching and writing on a variety of issues related to the work of the foundation. Most of the issues will directly involve environmental questions, but others may relate to the operation of a small non-profit business (i.e. employment questions or insurance questions); and
3) Supporting the work of the wetlands permit review committee.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 10
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: Bob Stokes
Address: 17324-A Hwy 3, Webster, TX 77598
EMAIL: bstokes@galvbay.org
Telephone: 281-332-3381 x211
Galveston-Houston Association for Smog Prevention (GHASP)
Organization Description:
GHASP's mission is to persuade
government and corporate officials to prevent smog. GHASP seeks to accomplish
its mission by being the most credible
advocate for clean air in the
Houston region; by
supporting efforts to educate the public and intensify the political climate;
and by directly engaging
government officials,
community leaders, the media and industry on regional air pollution issues.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring
Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public
Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 10
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: Meg Healy
EMAIL: info@ghasp.org
Telephone: 713-528-3779
Other Requirements:
Organization Description:
The Gulf Region Advocacy Center, or GRACE, is organized for the purpose of supporting and providing quality representation to indigent persons charged with capital crimes in the state courts of Texas and Louisiana.
Description of Activities for Students:
Depending on the student's level of experience and our current caseload, students will be processing documents, performing legal research, and sometimes assisting with mitigation investigation and record collection.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours:
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Jeremiah Sierra
Address: 2307 Union St, Houston, TX 77007
EMAIL: staff@gracelaw.org
Telephone: 713-869-4722
Harris County District Attorney’s Office
Organization Description:
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes criminal cases occurring in Harris County, Texas. The office handles approximately 80,000 cases per year and employs over 230 lawyers. Cases range from traffic violations to capital murder cases in which the state is seeking the death penalty.
Description of Activities for Students:
Interns are assigned to work directly with experienced trial attorneys. Interns attend court proceedings daily and assist trial attorneys with witness and victim contact, process new charges and files, observe and assist with plea negotiations and formal pleas before the bench. Interns also observe and help with jury and bench trials and are allowed to try criminal jury trials or court hearings upon receipt of a third-year bar card.
Click here for the Intern Employment Procedures.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 15/wk
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: Brian L. Rose
Address: 1201 Franklin, Suite 600, Houston, TX 77002
EMAIL: rose_brian@dao.hctx.net
Telephone: (713) 755-5816
Other Requirements: Cover Letter
Organization Description:
The Houston Housing Authority is a public housing authority which provides housing assistance to over 18,000 families in the City of Houston through HUDs Housing Choice Voucher Program and Low Income Public Housing program. The Authority is also heavily involved in real estate development and rehabilitation.
Description of Activities for Students:
The Housing Authority's Office of General Counsel provides legal assistance to all of the Authority's departments, including: Finance, Executive, Public Housing, Real Estate and Development, Section 8 and Human Resources. Interns will be personally involved in, inter-alia, landlord/tenant issues, court proceedings, informal hearings, contract drafting, research, and employment issues.
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern
Will accept: 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Transcript
Contact Information
Name: Shelby Boseman
Address: 2640 Fountainview, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77057
EMAIL: sboseman@housingforhouston.com
Telephone: 713-260-0525
Other Requirements:Must be able to pass a drug test.
Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program (HVLP)
Organization Description:
HVLP's mission is to provide pro bono legal services to low-income and indigent men and women of Harris County and to promote volunteerism among the local legal community.
Description of Activities for Students:
Student will have hands-on introduction to all aspects of HVLP services and all HVLP programs.
Specifically, the student will interview applicants and prepare files for referral; student will assist with preparation and follow-up for Will Clinic and Saturday Legal Advice Clinic programs, including client interviews, legal research regarding issues, and recommendations to staff attorney for file follow-up; student will assist in preparation of HVLP clinic handbook; student may prepare simple estate planning packages; bilingual students may serve as translators; student may do other tasks as needed and assist other staff attorneys.
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Summer Public Interest Fellow
Will accept: 1L 2L
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: William R. Eckert III
Address: 712 Main Street, Ste. 2700, Houston, Texas 77002
EMAIL: bill.eckert@hvlp.org
Telephone: 713-228-0735
Howrey Externs for Legal Pro Bono Service (HELPS)
Organization Description:
To be eligible for a HELPS externship, the student must be willing to work with Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program or Lone Star Legal Aid.
Description of Activities for Students:
Howrey is looking for a student with a strong background and demonstrated interest in public service. Candidates should be planning to pursue a career in public interest law following graduation from law school. This externship offers students the opportunity to pursue that dream.
Positions Considered:
Summer Intern
Will accept: 1L
Provide: Resume Transcript Questionnaire
Contact Information
Name: Nancy Cowper
Address: 1111 Louisiana, 25th Floor, Houston, TX 77002
EMAIL: cowpern@howrey.com
Human Rights Initiative of North Texas, Legal Department
Information to be supplied at a later date.
Internal Revenue Service, Large Business
Organization Description:
Office of Chief Counsel provides legal advice and representation to IRS in the administration of our nation's tax laws
Description of Activities for Students:
Students get exposure to our office by working under the supervision and with the assistance of experienced tax lawyers. Experiences depend on issues and cases. They could research legal tax issues, prepare memos of law, draft documents for court, attend conferences, etc.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern
Will accept: 2L
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Marilyn Ames, Associate Area Counsel, SBSE
Address: 8701 S. Gessner
Houston, TX 77074
Telephone: 281-721-7304
Other Requirements:
At least one tax course; more are preferred.
Internal Revenue Service, Small Business/Self-Employed Division
Organization Description:
The Office of Division Counsel (Small Business/Self-Employed) provides advice on legal issues, regulations, and needs relevant to all individuals filing schedules C, E, F, and/or Form 2106; estate and gift tax returns; fiduciary returns; excise tax returns and/or forms; and individuals with international tax returns, as well as corporations, S corporations, and partnerships with assets of less than $10 million. The Office represents the government in the U.S. Tax Court in cases involving both SB/SE and Wage & Investment Division customers. It also provides general litigation services for all Service Collection activity. Finally, it provides advice to the Office of the National Taxpayer Advocate.
Description of Activities for Students:
Student volunteers research a variety of issues involved in tax administration, and are given an opportunity to attend conferences with taxpayers or their representatives, meet with the agency's client, and whenever possible, attend court with the attorneys to observe.
Positions Considered: Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 150
Will accept: 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample Separate Application
Contact Information
Name: Marilyn Ames
Address: 8701 S. Gessner Suite 710, Houston, Texas 77074
Telephone: 281 721-7304
Other Requirements:
Must generally be a citizen of the United States . Will need to provide fingerprints for security check.
Organization Description:
Non-profit advocacy group for criminally abused children.
Description of Activities for Students:
Legal research, case advocacy
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern
Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 5/wk
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: Tom Burton
Address: 2600 Southwest Freeway #806
EMAIL: tburton@justiceforchildren.org
Telephone: 713-225-4357
Other Requirements:
Child abuse and the cases we work on are very troubling. Interns should expect to be exposed to cases involving children who are suffering from severe trauma.
Organization Description:
We are a non-profit land preservation organization that deals with legal contracts that permanently preserves land.
Description of Activities for Students:
Learn and assist with preparation and filing of conseration easements.
Positions Considered:
Summer Fall and Spring Academic Intern; Law Student Volunteers Summer Public interest Fellow
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume
Contact Information:
Name: Jennifer Lorenz
Address: 10330 Lake Rs. Bld. J, Houston, TX 77070
Phone: 713-524-2100
Organization Description:
Civil legal services for the poor.
Description of Activities for Students:
Work with attorneys as law clerks in area of Housing law, Consumer law, Family law and Public benefits, participating in litigation and administrative hearings.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern
Summer Academic Intern Summer Public Interest Fellow
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume
Montgomery County Women’s Center
Organization Description:
A non profit organization providing services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, including shelter, counseling, outreach, advocacy, and legal services, all at no cost to our clients.
Description of Activities for Students:
Students will be exposed to direct legal representation of victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, through protective orders, divorces, and suits affecting parent-child relationship. Students, based upon experience and 1L, 2L, 3L status, after orientation and mentoring, will be asked to do client intakes, draft documents, assist in trial preparation, and observe court proceeding, in addition to trips to the courthouse for research and filing of documents.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers
Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: TBD
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Pamela Kenner
Address: 731 West Davis
EMAIL: pamk@mcwcthewoodlands.org
Telephone: 281-760-4179 x-305
Other Requirements:While Spanish language is not a requirement, we have a large Hispanic client base, and it is absolutely a plus.
Other Comments:We also have an Equal Justice Works Fellow running a "Pro Bono & Assisted Pro Se Program" for Montgomery County so that the intern can participate in that process, if desired.
Office of Texas Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division (Houston)
Organization Description:
Consumer Protection Division of the Texas Attorney General's Office. We enforce consumer laws in Texas against those who violate consumer related statutes against consumers.
Description of Activities for Students:
Assisting with the investigation and civil prosecution of persons and entities who violate the DTPA, 30 related consumer statutes, the Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, and the Health and Safety Code relating to nursing homes that violate Texas law. Students will be assigned tasks such as drafting of pre-suit subpoenas, pleadings, discovery and will be able to attend court hearings, depositions, trials, mediations and settlement negotiations. Students with their 3 year bar card can actually take witnesses at trial, assist with voir dire, and even partake in live cross examinations before a judge/jury.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 150
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Janet Dann
Address: 808 Travis, Suite 300, Houston, Texas 77002
EMAIL: janet.dann@oag.state.tx.us
Telephone: 713-223-5886
Other Requirements:
We like for students to commit to as many hours as possible in order to obtain a full range of exposure and experience to all that this office does. The longer the internship, the more experience and exposure to the important public service work that this office performs.
Social Security Administration
Organization Description:
The Social
Security Administration pays benefits to over 40 million people each year.
Those who disagree with the Agency's decisions regarding their
claims for benefits may appeal through the Office of Hearings and Appeals. Our Staff Attorneys and Administrative Law Judges work nationwide to
provide the public with a timely and judicious appeal for Social Security benefits. All of our Attorneys are in good standing with their State (or equivalent)
Bar Association. While our entry-level Attorneys begin with admittance to the Bar, our Administrative Law Judges have been practicing Attorneys for at
least 7 years, of which 2 years were spent preparing and trying cases before courts of original and unlimited jurisdiction. Our legal professionals enjoy the
diversity
and challenge of their work. With experience, entry-level Attorneys may
progress to supervisory positions.
Description of Activities for Students:
It is
SSA's policy to provide educationally related work assignments, on an equal
opportunity basis, for students who wish to provide volunteer services
to supplement their formal educational program when duties appropriate for the work assignment are available. Normally, the work assignments do not
exceed one semester (or quarter). However, assignments may be for longer periods when the academic reason justifies the longer assignment. The
particulars regarding the duties and duration of student volunteer assignments must be agreed to by the educational institution at which the student is
enrolled. There are two Hearing Offices in the Houston area--Houston Downtown and Houston Bissonnet. Each is engaged in deciding de novo appellate
applications in disability cases. (Controlling regs may be found at 20 CFR, Parts 400 to 499, in the Code of Federal Regulations, and in Title 42, U.S.
Code,
The Public Health and Welfare.)
Positions Considered:
Fall
Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern
Summer
Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers
Summer
Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 15-20
Will accept: 1L 2L LLM
Provide: Resume Separate Application
Contact Information
Name:
Cheryl Love Hanks
Address:
Houston Downtown OHA, Leland Federal Bldg., 1919 Smith Street, Suite 500,
Houston, TX 77002
EMAIL:
cheryl.hanks@ssa.gov
Telephone:
(713) 654-1090, ext. 242
Other Requirements:
An interview is required. Contact Cheryl Love Hanks at Houston Downtown OHA or
Cathy Anderson at Houston (Bissonnet) OHA to request materials and to arrange
for an interview.
State Counsel for Offenders, Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Organization Description:
Representation of and assistance to inmates in TDCJ regarding criminal acts committed while in custody, immigration, civil commitment of sexually violent predators, appeals, writs, etc.
Description of Activities for Students:
Hands-on involvement in all areas, including client visits and interviews, jury trial assistance, case preparation and research.
Positions Considered: Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 120
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L
Other Comments:Summer volunteer intern program. Minimum 3 weeks, full time, in Huntsville, Texas.
Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts (TALA)
Organization Description:
Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts (TALA) was formed in 1979 to meet the legal and accounting needs of artists and nonprofit organizations. TALA is the largest provider of pro bono legal and accounting services to the arts in the United States . TALA volunteers throughout Texas handle more than 800 matters per year. This amounts to more than one million dollars annually in donated services to the arts and cultural community.
TALA provides free legal and accounting services to arts nonprofits and artists from all creative disciplines, including visual artists, musicians, actors, dancers, film makers and writers. Over 600 attorneys and accountants donate their time to artists and nonprofit organizations who are unable to afford professional services. Without TALA, their problems would remain unresolved and their interests unrepresented.
Our services include lawyer and accountant pro bono assistance, dispute resolution services, educational programs for the artistic and business community, publications, and a resource library. Programs are designed to help artists apply legal and accounting concepts for their benefit. Your membership dollars provide for TALA's small staff, office facilities and insurance coverage necessary to coordinate and support TALA volunteers.
Description of Activities for Students:
Range from organizational issues, learning how to form a 501(c)(3) organization, assisting artists, and much much more.
Positions Considered: Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 20
Will accept: 2L 3L
Other Requirements: Arts/Nonprofit background
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)
Organization Description:
State Government - Environmental Law
Description of Activities for Students:
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Summer Public Interest Fellow
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
More information to be supplied.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Director of Legal Affairs
More information to be supplied.
Organization Description:
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of Texas is the chief federal law enforcement officer in this area. The U.S. Attorney's Office criminally and civilly prosecutes individuals and corporate entities for violations of federal law. The office also civilly represents federal agencies that have been sued.
The Southern District of Texas shares a long border with Mexico , and has one of the most active and diverse criminal and civil dockets of the 94 federal judicial districts. The United States Attorney's Office has staffed offices in Houston, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, and Victoria, as well as an unstaffed office in Galveston.
Description of Activities for Students:
The law student clerkship program provides participants with supervised, direct responsibility for post-conviction and post-appeal litigation. Participants will be assigned to the Appellate or Civil Divisions, with responsibility to research and draft briefs in post-judgment and post-appeal litigation. The program will include briefings in all aspects of federal criminal and civil litigation, as well as opportunities to attend hearings, trials, and other proceedings.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern
Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume Cover Letter Transcript Short Writing Sample
Contact Information (please apply using regular mail, not email):
Name: Mitch Neurock, Executive Assistant United States Attorney
Address: P.O. Box 61129, Houston, Texas 77208-1129
EMAIL: mitchel.neurock@usdoj.gov
Telephone: 713-567-9376
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, ICE
Organization Description:
Represents the United States Government in removal proceedings before Immigration Courts and in any subsequent appeals to the Board of Immigration Appeals, provides legal advice and counsel to the investigative and deportation components of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Description of Activities for Students:
Those students selected will be asked to assist the Assistant Chief Counsels in preparation for hearings before the Immigration Courts with the potential for second chair experience, research various legal issues involving immigration law and prepare legal briefs on those issues, and assist in the preparation of appellate briefs to be submitted to the Board of Immigration Appeals. Additionally, the students will be provided with an overview of immigration law by each of the Assistant Chief Counsels.
Positions Considered: Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Mark Evans
Address: Office of the Chief Counsel, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 126 Northpoint, room 2020, Houston, Texas 77060
EMAIL: mark.evans@dhs.gov
Telephone: 281-774-4746
Other Requirements:Please provide a cover letter and proof of United States citizenship.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Organization Description:
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a federal agency whose Houston Office is located at 1301 Fannin, Suite 2200 in downtown Houston. The Legal Division assists program staff in achieving HUD's mission of assuring decent and affordable housing, enabling all Americans to achieve homeownership, providing resources for communities to build strong neighborhoods, preventing homelessness, and enforcing fair housing laws. Staff attorneys provide legal opinions, advice and services with respect to a variety of departmental programs and activities.
Description of Activities for Students:
Students will work directly with attorneys and program staff to complete multifamily apartment closings, sales transactions, conflict of interest determinations, or resolve management or enforcement issues, and other tasks as needed. They will receive some initial training through webcasts but will actively work with staff attorneys to participate in current work assignments, meetings, closings, hearings, training courses, etc. in the Legal Division. Three research and writing assignments are usually requested on currently pending issues. Students can select work assignments in program areas in which they have a direct interest. Contracts, property, UCC, or other real estate- related courses are very helpful but not required.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern Summer Academic Intern Summer Public Interest Fellow
Will accept: 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Contact Information
Name: Gloria Aldridge, Chief Counsel
Address: 1301 Fannin, Suite 2200
EMAIL: gloria.m.aldridge@hud.gov
Telephone: 713-718-3126
Organization Description:
The United States Naval Reserves is looking for highly qualified professionals for Officer Commissioning Programs in the Naval Reserves. Both LT David De La Rosa, Officer Programs Recruiter and LT Michael Lipkin, a current UH Law Student will attend.
Description of Activities for Students:
Please have students prepare a resume that includes any prior military experience.
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: LT DAVID DE LA ROSA
Address: 1902 OLD SPANISH TRAIL, HOUSTON, TX 77054
EMAIL: david.delarosa@navy.mil
Telephone: 281-628-3011
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University of Houston Student Legal Services and Dean of Students Office
Organization Description:
Student Legal Services provides advice to students of UH.
Dean of Students office assists students with problems they encounter within the university. DOS also handles disciplinary action.
Description of Activities for Students:
Research legal issues encountered by students and assist with writing and updating brochures and other information for students. Assist the deans in the Dean of Students office.
Positions Considered: Law Student Volunteers
Minimum hours: 5
Will accept: 2L 3L LLM
Provide: Resume Transcript
Contact Information
Name: Marilyn Golub
Address: UC 252
EMAIL: mgolub@uh.edu
Telephone: 713-743-5450
University of Houston System Office of General Counsel
Description of Activities for Students:
General legal research and writing; assist in preparing for litigation.
Positions Considered: Summer Academic Intern
Will accept: 2L 3L
Provide: Resume
Contact Information
Name: Jose M. Rangel, Deputy General Counsel
Address: 311 E. Cullen Bldg.
EMAIL: jmrangel@uh.edu
Telephone: 7137439172
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YMCA International Services, Immigration Counseling Department
Organization Description:
As a unique branch of the YMCA of Greater Houston established in 1978 in response to a large influx of refugees from Southeast Asia, YMCA International Services was created to address the immediate resettlement needs of those individuals and families fleeing political persecution regardless of their nation of origin. Since that time, the International Services branch has developed into a multi-service agency that provides holistic services to Houston’s refugee and immigrant communities, with a special focus on facilitating and fostering self-sufficiency in our clients. Services offered by the Branch include: Refugee Resettlement, Assistance for Victims of Human Trafficking, Employment Services, Cultural Orientation, GED Preparation and Educational Counseling. Additionally, the International Services Branch is a Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) accredited agency offering the following legal immigration services: Citizenship and Adjustment of Status, Family Based Petitions, Pro Bo
Description of Activities for Students:
This position requires working with clients seeking benefits under all aspects of family-based immigration; assisting attorney with representation in removal hearings, including providing consultation on remedies available before the EOIR, the BIA, and the federal courts if necessary. The intern will also work with the following pro bono programs: Houston Refugee Pro Bono Project, Crime Victims Civil Legal Services, VAWA Pro Bono Program and Services for Trafficking Victims Program. Intern may assist with the organizing of CLE training seminars for attorneys held by YMCA International Services.
Intern will assist attorney with research and writing of briefs, motions and memos. Other duties include helping attorney to offer In-House Training to staff regarding new immigration laws, issues, and procedures.
Positions Considered:
Fall Academic Intern Spring Academic Intern
Summer Academic Intern Law Student Volunteers
Summer Public Interest Fellow
Minimum hours: 20
Will accept: 1L 2L 3L FLLM
Provide: Resume Transcript Writing Sample
Separate Application (see other requirements)
Contact Information
Name: Andre Rodriguez
Address: 6300 Westpark, Ste. 600 Houston, TX 77057
EMAIL: andrer@ymcahouston.org
Telephone: 713-339-9015x343
Other Requirements:
*Applicant will also be required to submit the YMCA volunteer application and pass our required security background check.