© August 2022 Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office (General)
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OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY
George Gascon, District Attorney
Hall of Justice, Suite 1200
211 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Revised: June 2022
VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS
Thank you for your interest and desire to participate in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s
Office Volunteer Internships and Certified Law Student Program. The District Attorney’s Office offers a
variety of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers do not receive compensation or benefits from the
District Attorney’s Office. All volunteers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the start of their
volunteering. Fully vaccinated is specified as two weeks post the second dose of the vaccine.
Volunteer positions are available for high school students; college or university undergraduate,
students enrolled in a paralegal school and post-graduate students; law clerk and certified law clerk
students, including students participating in a Masters of Law (LL.M) program; and recent law
school graduates who are waiting for their results of the California Bar examination.
Attorneys (licensed anywhere in the United States) are not eligible to participate in the Volunteer
Internship program. For those interested in a volunteer attorney positions, please contact the Los
Angeles County Bar Association, Trial Advocacy Project (TAP Project). Interested candidates may visit the
LACBA’s website at www.lacba.org or contact Michael D. Schwartz, Trial Advocacy Group, at (310) 617-
1990. Please note that all LA County hiring is governed by the rules of civil service which require
licensed attorneys to be hired only after participating in a civil service exam. Attorneys are ineligible to
be placed pursuant to the provisional license implemented by the Supreme Court of California in 2020.
This Application Packet provides important information about the eligibility requirements for the
various volunteer positions and the proper procedures that must be followed by all potential
volunteer candidates. The policies and procedures contained herein are within the guidelines of Los
Angeles County and District Attorney departmental regulations. Alteration of the information and
contents of this Application Packet is strictly prohibited.
VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT COORDINATOR’S OFFICE
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Volunteer Internship Program is administered by
the following departments:
FOR HIGH SCHOOL COLLEGE, LAW SCHOOL & LLM STUDENTS: FOR PARALEGAL STUDENTS:
District Attorney’s Office District Attorney’s Office
Recruitment Unit Paralegal Coordinator
Hall of Justice Hall of Justice
211 W. Temple Street, Suite 1200 211 W. Temple Street, Suite 1200
Los Angeles, CA 90012 Los Angeles, CA 90012
LADARecruit[email protected] Paralegal_Intern@da.lacounty.gov
Questions regarding the District Attorney’s Office volunteer program should be directed via
email to the appropriate department listed above.
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VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS POSITIONS
Volunteers may work during regular office hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Monday through Friday
during the Spring (January 1 through May 31), Summer (June 1 through August 31) and Fall
(September 1 through December 31) sessions, and volunteers must be available for a minimum
of 16 hours per week. Volunteers have the opportunity to learn about the criminal justice system
firsthand and work closely with all levels of staff, from deputy district attorneys to investigators
to support staff, as well as have contact with other court and law enforcement staff.
Due to our desire to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest, volunteers are advised
that they may not perform any work (paid or unpaid) for any criminal defense attorney or on
any criminal defense case during the pendency of their internship with this office.
Application Deadlines
Applications for each session are accepted at any time prior to the session deadline as indicated
below. The application process, including a LiveScan and background investigation, requires four (4)
to six (6) weeks or longer to complete.
Available volunteer positions will be limited for each session (225 applications for the Spring session,
450 applications for the Summer session, and 225 applications for the Fall session. Applications
received after the application deadline period will not be accepted. Receipt of a cover letter and/or
resume will not satisfy the requirement of timely submission of the application and background
investigation forms.
Internship Dates
Application Deadlines
(By 5:00 pm)
Available
Positions
January 1 – May 31
November 15
225
June 1 – August 31
April 15
450
September 1 – December 31
July 15
225
Youth Volunteer Internship – High School Students
Volunteer Student Worker: The minimum age requirement to participate in the volunteer program as
a high school student is 16 years of age. All high school students must be 16 years of age at the time
the application is submitted. Students must be currently enrolled in high school and have the consent
of a parent or legal guardian. Volunteer positions for high school students will be limited for each
session. A high school volunteer student worker can be expected to assist with any of the following
duties:
◆
Scanning, photocopying, and/or shredding of documents
◆
Answering telephones, typing, filing, delivering documents
◆
Assembling reports, documents or manuals
◆
Other duties depending on education and skills
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Undergraduate and Post-Graduate Internship – College or University Students
Volunteer Student Worker: Undergraduate or post-graduate students who are currently enrolled in,
or have recently graduated from, a college or university may participate in the volunteer program.
Volunteer positions for undergraduate and post-graduate students will be limited for each session.
Undergraduate or post-graduate volunteer student workers can be expected to assist with any of the
following duties:
◆
Collecting and analyzing statistics
◆
Doing research and special studies on issues affecting individual cases
◆
Assembling reports, documents or manuals
◆
Contacting witnesses – civilian and law enforcement – regarding court dates
◆
Assembling case evidence notebooks; sorting evidence
◆
Performing any related clerical work, as required, including answering telephones,
photocopying, delivering documents, and transporting media equipment
◆
Other duties depending on education and skills
Law Clerk Internship – First Year Law Students
Volunteer Law Clerk: Students who have completed their first year of law school are eligible to
volunteer as a law clerk during the summer after the first year and also during the following
school year. Volunteer law clerks are placed in offices where they will be involved primarily in
legal research-related assignments in specialized units and divisions located in the Downtown
Los Angeles area and outlying branch and area offices. They may assist in the preparation of
felony and misdemeanor prosecutions, observe courtroom activities and assist with any of the
following duties:
◆
Reviewing transcripts for inconsistent statements
◆
Sitting in on trial strategy discussions
◆
Composing drafts of motions and memoranda
◆
Obtaining restitution information
◆
Contacting or checking in victims or witnesses
◆
Assembling case evidence notebooks; sorting and analyzing evidence
◆
Assist with any of the duties listed above for undergraduate students
Paralegal Interns
Students who are currently enrolled in a college, university, or paralegal certification program may
participate in the paralegal internship program. Volunteer paralegal interns are placed in specialized
units located in the downtown Los Angeles area and divisions throughout Los Angeles County. Volunteer
paralegal interns may assist with any of the duties of a first-year law student.
Certified Law Clerk Internship – Second, Third, or Fourth Year Law Students
Volunteer Certified Law Clerk: The Certified Law Student Program provides law school students with
the opportunity to present actual criminal cases in court with a focus on courtroom trial skills. Under
the rules of the Office of Certification/Practical Training of Law Students (PTLS), the State Bar of
California allows qualified law students to make appearances in court under the supervision of a
deputy district attorney.
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In order to qualify for certification, students must be enrolled in their second, third or fourth year of
law school and must have either successfully completed or be currently enrolled in Evidence and
Civil Procedure courses. Certification forms are available through your law school and the State Bar
of California. The certification procedure includes a fee of $55.00 payable to the State Bar for
students who have never been certified. There is no fee for recertification. Fees are the responsibility
of the student. Students must attend a virtual be available to attend a one-day training on how to
present evidence in a criminal proceeding and how to conduct a preliminary hearing or juvenile
adjudication (this training is temporarily suspended during the ongoing pandemic).
Master of Law (LL.M.) Internship – Attorneys Outside Of California Or The United States
Volunteer Law Clerk or Certified Law Clerk: Students who are participating in a Master of Law
(LL.M. to J.D.) law school program may participate in the volunteer program as a volunteer law clerk
or certified law clerk. Students in the LL.M. program are assigned to offices where they will be
involved in legal research-related assignments in specialized units and divisions located in the
Downtown Los Angeles area and some outlying branch and area offices. They may assist with any of
the duties of a volunteer law clerk or certified law clerk.
Post-Bar Law Clerk Internship – Recent Law School Graduates
Post-Bar Volunteer Law Clerk: Law school students who have received a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree
and are waiting for results of the California Bar examination may participate in the volunteer program
as a volunteer law clerk. However, once an individual has successfully passed the California Bar
examination, they are no longer eligible or authorized to participate in the District Attorney’s
Office volunteer program and must end employment within two weeks of receiving their results.
Any exception requires the approval of the Assistant District Attorney for Administration. The
deputy district attorney requesting the exception must do so in writing through their chain of
command (Deputy-in-Charge/Head Deputy, Bureau Director, Assistant District Attorney).
LACBA Trial Advocacy Project Attorney – TAP Attorneys
Volunteer Attorney: Attorneys in good standing with the California State Bar and who have
successfully completed the Los Angeles County Bar Association, Traditional Trial Advocacy Program
(TAP) may participate as a volunteer attorney where they will present actual criminal cases.
Attorneys interested in a volunteer attorney position may send a cover letter and resume to the
LACBA TAP Administrator, 1055 West 7
th
Street, Suite 2700, Los Angeles, California 90017-2577 or
visit the LACBA website at www.lacba.org for further information.
Volunteer attorneys participating in the TAP project volunteer as pro bono prosecutors. They may
assist with criminal cases, including jury selection, opening statements, direct and cross-examination
of witnesses, trial related motions (i.e., motions to dismiss), jury instructions, closing arguments and
sentencing. Assignments for TAP attorneys are made at the discretion of the District Attorney’s Office
to ensure the mission of the office is successfully accomplished and where positions are available.
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VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
These “Frequently Asked Questions” provide answers to questions that are most frequently asked
about the District Attorney’s Office volunteer program. They also provide important information
regarding the application process and the proper procedures that must be followed as you apply for a
volunteer position with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
Confidential Volunteer Office File
Los Angeles County and District Attorney departmental policies require the Recruitment Unit to
maintain a confidential file for all volunteers. Only authorized personnel in the Recruitment Unit,
Bureau of Investigation and Human Resources Division have access to the volunteer confidential files.
Your application and background investigation forms, as well as any documents submitted in support
of your application (such as a cover letter, resume, curriculum vitae, photo identification, passport,
school enrollment form, school transcripts, military forms, letter of recommendation, license or
certificate, court records, et cetera) become part of your confidential file.
1. Volunteer Internship Application Forms
Step 1: You must complete the volunteer application forms – Volunteer Program Application
and Volunteer Program Agreement. High school students must also complete the Youth Volunteer
Parental Consent Form. These forms are available at the end of this packet as well as on the
District Attorney’s Office website at http://da.lacounty.gov under the “Contact/Volunteer” tab.
May I apply for more than one internship session? No. Your application will be considered for
one (1) session that you have selected on your application.
If I am unable to begin my internship for the session I requested, may I change my request for a
different session? Yes. If you are unable to intern during the session you requested on your
application, you must contact the Recruitment Unit and request another session.
If I submit my application and background investigation forms and then decide not to volunteer as
an intern, whom should I contact? You must contact the Recruitment Unit and indicate that you
are no longer interested in a volunteer internship.
2. Proof of Covid-19 Vaccination
Step 2: On October 1, 2021 the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor’ mandated that all County
workers, including volunteers must show proof of vaccination in order to be accepted into the
Volunteer Program. Only applications containing proof of vaccination will be processed. At
this time, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors have not provided a vaccination exemption
for volunteers even if you are seeking an exemption for medical or religious reasons.
3. Background Investigation Forms
Step 3: You must complete the background investigation forms – Waiver/Authorization to
Release Information and Criminal Record Check Information. These forms are available on the
District Attorney’s Office website at http://da.lacounty.gov under the “Contact/Volunteer” tab.
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Los Angeles County and District Attorney departmental policies require you to have a
preliminary background check before you can participate as a volunteer. Your internship is
contingent upon satisfactory completion of your background investigation.
4. Submission of Application and Background Investigation Forms
Step 4: For High School, College , Law School & LLM Students ONLY- Submit your completed
application, background investigation forms, resume, proof of COVID-19 vaccination, and an
official photo identification to the District Attorney’s Office, Recruitment Unit, Hall of Justice,
211 West Temple Street, Suite 1200, Los Angeles, California 90012 or scan and email to
[email protected]. Your original, hand-written signatures are required on all
forms before you scan and email the forms. Electronic/digital signatures cannot be accepted.
For Paralegal Students ONLY- Submit your completed application, background investigation
forms, resume, proof of COVID-19 vaccination, and an official photo identification to the District
Attorney’s Office, Paralegal Coordinator, Hall of Justice, 211 West Temple Street, Suite 1200, Los
Angeles, California 90012 or scan and email to [email protected] Your
original, hand-written signatures are required on all forms before you scan and email the forms.
Electronic/digital signatures cannot be accepted.
Can I submit my application and background investigation forms after the deadline? No.
Applications for each session are accepted at any time prior to the session deadline as indicated
below (all forms must be emailed, hand-delivered or post-marked on or before the deadline).
Internship Dates
Application Deadlines
(By 5pm)
Available
Positions
January 1 – May 31
November 15
225
June 1 – August 31
April 15
450
September 1 – December 31
July 15
225
5. Volunteer Internship Assignment
Step 5: The Recruitment Unit/Paralegal Coordinator will review your resume, application forms
and consider your assignment preferences. You may not volunteer for more than one
office/division during your internship. Assignment preference listing the names of a specific
attorney is not sufficient. Please list valid assignment preferences which are found on page 13 of
the application packet. Volunteer internship assignments are made at the discretion of the
District Attorney’s Office to ensure the mission of the office is successfully accomplished.
Will I be assigned with the supervisor or to the division/office I have listed on my application? In
most instances, although you are not guaranteed an assignment to your selected preferences.
Assignments are made at the discretion of the Deputy-in-Charge of the Recruitment Unit (or
Paralegal Coordinator for prospective paralegal interns) to ensure assignments are made where
positions are available.
Can I request to change my assignment with a different supervisor or transfer to another
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division/office? Yes. You must contact the Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal Coordinator for
prospective paralegal interns) and provide a reason for a change in your assignment. You are
not allowed to change your internship assignment without notification to and the authorization
of the Recruitment Unit.
6. LiveScan, i.e. digital fingerprinting
Step 6: Your application and background investigation forms will be submitted to the Human
Resources Division (HRD) for further processing. Los Angeles County and District Attorney
departmental policies require all volunteer interns to complete a LiveScan where you will be
digitally fingerprinted.
The Human Resources Division will contact you via phone or email to schedule your LiveScan at
the District Attorney’s Office, Human Resources Division, Hall of Justice, Suite 200, 211 West
Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. The Human Resources Division will make three (3)
attempts to schedule your LiveScan. If you do not respond after three attempts to schedule your
LiveScan, your application will be cancelled.
Can I contact the Recruitment Unit to check on the status of my application? Please direct inquiries
regarding the status of your application or questions regarding the LiveScan to the Recruitment
Unit via email at [email protected]. (or [email protected] for
paralegal interns).
If I am under the age of 18, must a parent or legal guardian accompany me for my LiveScan? Yes.
Los Angeles County and District Attorney departmental policies require a parent or legal
guardian to be present when you complete your LiveScan and requires you to bring a copy of
your birth certificate as proof of identity.
7. Background Investigation
Step 7: After the completion of your LiveScan, the Bureau of Investigation will commence your
background investigation which can take four (4) to six (6) weeks or longer. Your internship is
contingent upon passing your background investigation.
Can I start my internship before my background investigation is completed? No. Los Angeles
County and District Attorney departmental policies prohibit you from starting your internship
prior to passing your background investigation.
Can I or my supervisor contact the Recruitment Unit or the Human Resources Division to check on
the status of my background investigation? No. The background investigation is confidential in
nature and verbal or written updates regarding the status of the background investigation are
not provided. Also, the volume of work will not permit devoting resources to providing updates
to applicants.
Can I or my supervisor request to have my background investigation expedited? No. All
candidates will be processed in the same manner.
Will I be informed when my background investigation is completed? Yes. The Recruitment Unit
will notify you and your supervisor that your background investigation has been satisfactorily
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completed and that you have been cleared to begin your internship.
If I do not receive clearance of my background investigation, may I participate in the volunteer
program? No. You are not authorized to participate in the volunteer program if you do not
receive notice of satisfactory completion of your background investigation. The Recruitment
Unit will also notify you and your supervisor that you have not passed your background
investigation.
8. Pre-screening Interview
Step 8: In order to be accepted into the Volunteer Program, all volunteers must submit to a pre-
screening interview. The Recruitment Unit will contact you to schedule an interview as part of the
onboarding process. Law students can satisfy this requirement by participating in their law
school’s on-campus interview (OCI) program.
9. Internship Start and End Dates
Step 9: When your background investigation is completed, the Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal
Coordinator for paralegal interns) will contact you and your supervisor. Your supervisor will
contact you to arrange a start date.
Must I report my start and end dates to the Recruitment Unit? Yes. You must report your first
and last day of your internship to the Recruitment Unit. Los Angeles County and District
Attorney departmental policies require the Recruitment Unit to maintain attendance records
for all volunteers.
10. Temporary Identification Card
Step 10: During your participation in the volunteer program, you will be issued a temporary
Identification (ID) Card. You are not authorized to receive a temporary ID card until the
satisfactory completion of your background investigation. The temporary ID card is issued for
six (6) months. Your temporary ID card must be worn or displayed at all times while you are
engaged in activities related to your internship.
How can I request a temporary ID card? Once you have cleared background, your ID card will
automatically be sent to you supervisor.
May I keep the ID card after the completion of my internship? No. The ID card is the property of
the District Attorney’s Office. Los Angeles County and District Attorney departmental policies
require that you return the ID card to the Human Resources Division (or the Recruitment Unit)
at the end of your internship. It will be noted in your confidential file that you failed to return
the ID card, which could impact future opportunities to volunteer with LADA.
If I lose my ID card, will I be given a replacement ID card? Yes. You must report the loss of your
ID card to the Human Resources Division and complete an Affidavit of Lost Identification Card.
You may be assessed a nominal replacement fee.
11. Hall of Justice Building Access Card
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Step 11: If you are assigned to a division/office located in the Hall of Justice (HOJ), you will
receive a temporary HOJ building access card. You must not share your access card with anyone
or allow anyone access into the District Attorney’s Offices who does not have authority to enter.
How may I request an access card for the Hall of Justice? Your supervisor (or the Head Deputy,
Assistant Head Deputy, Deputy-in-Charge or the Head Secretary) must initiate the request for
an access card. Your supervisor should contact the Recruitment Unit or Paralegal Coordinator,
and an access card application will be submitted for you. The Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal
Coordinator) will notify your supervisor when your access card is available.
May I keep the access card after the completion of my internship? No. The access card is the
property of the District Attorney’s Office. Los Angeles County and District Attorney
departmental policies require that you return the access card to the Human Resources Division
(or the Recruitment Unit) at the end of your internship. If you fail to return the access card, it
will be noted in your confidential file that you failed to return the access card, which could
impact future opportunities to volunteer with LADA.
If I lose my access card, will I be given a replacement card? Yes. You must report the loss of your
access card to the Human Resources Division and complete an Affidavit of Lost Building Access
Card. You may be assessed a nominal replacement fee.
12. Guest Identification (GID) Number
Step 12: All volunteers are required to have a GID number, which is provided by the Human
Resources Division and is printed on the temporary ID card. In some assignments, you may be
required to logon to various computer-related research systems or databases. You must have a
GID number before accessing office databases.
GID numbers are valid for three (3) months and should not be shared with other volunteers.
Your GID number must be activated prior to using it. After three months, the GID number is
automatically deactivated.
How can I request activation of my GID for computer access? The request for activation of the GID
must originate from your supervisor (or the Head Deputy, Assistant Head Deputy, Deputy- in-
Charge or the Head Secretary). The request must be directed to the Recruitment Unit via email at
[email protected]. (or [email protected] for paralegal interns).
After three months and access has expired, can I request reactivation of my GID number? Yes. If
you have requested that your internship be extended to the Recruitment Unit and your
internship is still ongoing, your GID number may be reactivated for the remainder of your
internship.
Procedures For Reactivation of A GID Number:
Request Reactivation: The request for reactivation of the GID number must originate from your
supervisor (or the Head Deputy, Assistant Head Deputy, Deputy-in-Charge or the Head Secretary).
The request for reactivation of a GID number must be directed to the Recruitment Unit via email at
[email protected]. (or [email protected] for paralegal interns).
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a. Recruitment Unit: When the Recruitment Unit receives a request to reactivate a GID
number, the Recruitment Unit will verify that you have completed a Request to Extend
Volunteer Internship form. A form can be requested via email at
[email protected]. For paralegal interns email
[email protected].
b.
c. Request Approved: If your internship is still ongoing and you have been approved to
extend your volunteer internship, the request to reactivate your GID number will be
processed.
d. Request Denied: If your internship has expired, the request to reactivate your GID number
will be denied.
13. Training
The District Attorney’s Office Training Division will provide training for all volunteers. This
training is available online and includes topics on professionalism (professional conduct and
security procedures, professional attire for the office and courtroom); the criminal court
process, motions, discovery and Brady compliance; social media; workplace safety and
confidentiality. Also, certified law clerks will receive training on preliminary hearing
preparation, demonstration, and participation in mock preliminary hearing exercises (this part
of the training is temporarily suspended due to the ongoing pandemic). This training is
mandatory for all volunteer interns. Additional training may be offered by your supervising
attorney.
14. Report of Hours/Attendance
Los Angeles County and District Attorney departmental policies require all volunteers to
complete a daily record of their attendance. For your convenience, attached to this packet are
two Report of Volunteer Hours forms. You are required to complete the report each day you
report to the office.
At the end of your internship, you must sign the report and submit it to your supervisor, who
then must approve the report and submit it to the Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal Coordinator).
If you do not complete the Report of Volunteer Hours form as required, your failure to complete
the report will be noted in your confidential file and this could impact future opportunities to
volunteer with LADA.
15. Volunteer Internship Performance Evaluation Form
At the end of your internship, your supervisor will be required to complete a Volunteer Program
Performance Evaluation Form and submit it to the Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal Coordinator).
You will be evaluated on your performance during your internship, including your attendance,
personal relations and conduct, and professionalism. TAP Attorneys, LLM students, paralegal,
law clerk and certified law clerk volunteers will also be evaluated in the areas of legal
knowledge, oral and/or written presentation, and courtroom presentation.
Will I receive a copy of my performance evaluation? No. The performance evaluation is
confidential in nature and will be placed in your confidential file.
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16. Length of Internship
A volunteer may request to extend their internship to the next consecutive semester by
completing a Request for Extension form and submitting it to the Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal
Coordinator). A decision approving or denying your request to extend the internship will be sent
to you via email by the Deputy-in-Charge of Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal Coordinator).
How may I request to extend my internship? At the end of your session, you may request to
extend your internship for an additional session as long as the requested start dates does not
exceed ninety (90) days from the date you last worked. You must complete the Request to
Extend Internship form either at the end of your internship session or if your internship overlaps
into the next session. A form can be requested via email at [email protected].
(or [email protected] for paralegal interns).
If you wish to return for another internship at a date which exceeds ninety (90) days, then you
will need to reapply for another internship. You must reapply by completing the application and
background investigation forms prior to the deadline. You will be required to complete another
LiveScan, and you are not authorized to volunteer until the Recruitment Unit receives
confirmation that you have passed the background investigation.
Session
Internship Dates
Spring
January 1 – May 31
Summer
June 1 – August 31
Fall
September 1 – December 31
Can my current supervisor approve my request for extension? No, your current supervisor does
not have the authority to grant your request for extension. Only the Deputy-in-Charge of the
Recruitment Unit (or Paralegal Coordinator) has the authority to grant or deny the request for
extension.
17. California State Bar Examination
Individuals who are waiting for results of the California Bar examination may volunteer as a law
clerk. However, once you have successfully passed the California Bar examination, you are no
longer eligible or authorized to participate in the District Attorney’s Office volunteer program
and will have to end your internship within two weeks from receiving Bar results. Completion
of law school will also be a factor in determining future volunteer eligibility.
May I volunteer while participating as a candidate in the Deputy District Attorney I
Examination/Selection process? No. Once you have been sworn in as an attorney with the
California State Bar, you are no longer eligible to volunteer with LADA. As you must be an
active member of the California State Bar to submit an application for Deputy District Attorney
I, you should no longer be acting as a volunteer.
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Is there an advantage to having served as a volunteer if I expect to be a candidate in the Deputy
District Attorney I Examination/Selection process? It is not a requirement for the position of
Deputy District Attorney I to have volunteered for LADA. All of the work experience reported
by the candidate will be considered during the selection process. This includes any experience
gained as a volunteer in a prosecutorial office, such as LADA.
18. County/Retired County Employee Volunteers
Los Angeles County employees may volunteer their services as long as the work they perform as
a volunteer is outside their scope of duties as a County employee and not performed during their
regular work hours. Time sheets, which must be maintained for County employee volunteers,
should verify that the hours worked were outside of the hours during which the employee is
regularly employed and specify that the work performed was voluntary and not paid. Retired
Los Angeles County employees may volunteer their services. Retired County employees are
subject to the same guidelines as all volunteers.
19. Verification of Internship Letter (From LADA)
As a requirement for enrollment in a certain course, curriculum, school program or grant
fellowship in which you will receive credit(s) or compensation, you may be required to request a
letter from the District Attorney’s Office which confirms your pending and/or completed
participation in the District Attorney’s Office volunteer internship program.
The Recruitment Unit/Paralegal Coordinator can assist you with a verification letter which
confirms that you are scheduled to participate in the District Attorney’s Office internship
program or that you have completed your internship. The District Attorney’s Office does not
verify participation in the volunteer internship program telephonically.
20. Verification of Internship Letter (From School or Other Entity)
As a requirement for enrollment in a certain course, curriculum, school program or grant
fellowship in which you will receive credit(s) or compensation, the school, State Bar,
government agency or other entity may send a letter or verification form to the Recruitment
Unit or to your supervisor. Depending on the information requested on the form, the
Recruitment Unit or your supervisor will review and complete the form as requested.
21. Verification of Internship/Employment (Background Investigation)
As a requirement for employment, certain entities may request to review your confidential file
to verify your internship/employment with the District Attorney’s Office. Per departmental
policy, information in a volunteer’s confidential file is considered confidential and shall not be
released unless the volunteer/employee has given written permission, an inquirer has legal
authority to have such information, or the information is determined to be public information.
22. County of Los Angeles Volunteer Insurance Program
As a volunteer with the District Attorney’s Office, you may be eligible for insurance coverage
under the Volunteer Accidental Medical Insurance Program. During your training session, you
will be provided with the County of Los Angeles Volunteer Workers: Indemnification and
Insurance Program Description and Guide, which is a brief description of the County insurance
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programs available to you in case you are injured while performing your assigned volunteer
duties.
If you are injured, you must immediately report the injury incident to your supervisor. You will
be required to complete the ACE/HSR claim form.
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VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS DISTRICT ATTORNEY OFFICE LOCATIONS
While the District Attorney’s Office has many offices throughout the County, not all of them offer
assignments for certified law students who wish to present actual criminal cases in court. If you are a
certified law student and would like to receive courtroom experience, you are encouraged to choose
from any office listed below that is marked with an asterisk (*). All other candidates may choose from
any office listed below. Some offices have limited positions available for each semester.
Select three offices and indicate your selections in order of preference on your application. List the
specific name of the division/office (do not list a general area such as “Downtown L.A.” or “Civic Center”
as a selection). If you have been assigned to a supervisor, place his or her name as your first selection.
Volunteer positions are also available in the Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Administrative
Services.
Branch/Area Operations
Throughout L.A. County
Airport Branch*
Alhambra Branch*
Antelope Valley Branch*
Bellflower Area*
Compton Branch*
Downey Area*
El Monte Area*
Glendale Area*
Inglewood Area*
Long Beach Branch*
Metropolitan Area*
Norwalk Branch*
Pasadena Branch*
Pomona Branch*
San Fernando Branch*
Santa Clarita Area*
Torrance Branch*
Van Nuys Branch*
West Covina Area*
Central Operations
Downtown/Civic Area
Central Trials 11 Division*
Central Trials 13 Division*
Central Trials 15 Division*
Charge Evaluation Division*
Preliminary Hearing Division
East Los Angeles Area*
Mental Health*
Alternative Sentencing
Psychiatric
ODR Court
Juvenile Mental Health Court
Fraud and Corruption
Prosecutions
Downtown/Civic Center
Auto Insurance Fraud Division
Consumer Protection Division
Cyber Crime Division
Environmental Crimes Division
Healthcare Fraud Division
Organized Crime Division
Public Assistance Fraud Division
Public Integrity Division
White Collar Crime Division
Elder Abuse Section
Real Estate Fraud Section
Prosecution Support Operations
Downtown/Civic Center
Writs and Appeals Division
Parole Division
Parole Revocation Section
Prison Crimes Section
Post-Conviction Litigation Division
Conviction Integrity Unit
Murder Resentencing Unit
Extradition Section
Discovery Compliance Section
Justice System Integrity Division
Training Division
Forensic Science Section
DTAPS Section
Specialized Prosecution
Downtown/Civic Center
Crimes Against Police Officers
Division
Family Violence Division
Complex Child Abuse Section
ESCARS Section
Community Violence Reduction
Division (Branches)
Community Violence Reduction
Division (Downtown)
Major Crimes Division
Cold Case Unit
Major Narcotics Division
Asset Forfeiture Section
Sex Crimes Division
Human Sex Trafficking Section
Stuart House Section
SVP Section
Target Crimes Division
Animal Cruelty Section
Arson & Explosives Section
Child Abduction Section
Stalking & Threat Assessment
Juvenile Division
Throughout L.A. County
Antelope Valley Juvenile*
Compton Juvenile*
Eastlake Juvenile*
Inglewood Juvenile*
Long Beach Juvenile*
Pomona Juvenile*
Sylmar Juvenile
Abolish Chronic Truancy*
Page 15
VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS AND CERTIFIED LAW STUDENT PROGRAM
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE APPLICATION
AND BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION FORMS
Application Forms: All candidates who desire to participate in the District Attorney’s Office
volunteer program must complete the following forms (to change or alter the forms is strictly
prohibited):
◆
Volunteer Program Application: The application consists of two pages wherein you must
provide personal and educational information.
◆
Volunteer Program Agreement: The agreement consists of two pages and must be completed
wherein you agree to abide by all Los Angeles County and District Attorney’s Office policies
and regulations.
◆
Youth Volunteer Parental Consent: Candidates between the ages of 16-17 must have a
parent or legal guardian complete the Youth Volunteer Parental Consent Form.
Background Investigation Forms: The Background Investigation Forms – Waiver/Authorization To
Release Information and Criminal Record Check Information. You must answer all applicable
questions, including the employment history section (do not list “see resume”) You may attach an
additional sheet if necessary.
Please print or write legibly. After you have completed all forms, please print all of the forms single
side only (do not print the forms back-to-back). Make sure you sign the forms in all areas that require
your signature. In addition to the application and background investigation forms, you must submit
the following documents:
1. Resume: You must submit a current resume.
2. Valid Photo Identification: You must submit a copy of an official, valid photograph for
identification, such as a driver’s license, state identification card, military identification card,
school identification card, or a valid passport (please photocopy the entire passport).
3. Internship Session Selection: You must select one (1) session. For the session selected, list
the dates you are available for that session only (do list “open,” “immediately,” “any time” or
any type of an indefinite period of time).
4. Signatures: The District Attorney’s Office requires all forms contain original, hand-written
signatures. Electronic/digital signatures on the forms will not be accepted.
Recruitment Unit: You must return your completed application packet via email at
[email protected], U.S. Mail, or hand-delivery to the following address: Los Angeles
County District Attorney’s Office, Recruitment Unit, Hall of Justice, Suite 1200, 211 West Temple Street,
Los Angeles, CA 90012. Paralegal Interns can submit completed applications via email at
[email protected], U.S. Mail, or hand-delivery to the following address: Los Angeles
County District Attorney’s Office, Paralegal Coordinator, Hall of Justice, Suite 1200, 211 West Temple
Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS AND CERTIFIED LAW STUDENT PROGRAM
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM APPLICATION (Page 1)
NAME:
First Name Middle Name or Initial Last Name
ADDRESS:
Home Street Address (Do not list a P.O. Box) Apartment or Suite No.
City State Zip Code Age Date of Birth
PHONE: CELL: ( ) OTHER: ( )
EMAIL ADDRESS:
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, PLEASE CONTACT:
NAME:
First Name Last Name Relationship
ADDRESS:
Home Street Address (Do not list a P.O. Box) Apartment or Suite No.
City State Zip Code
PHONE: CELL: ( ) OTHER: ( ) _
EMAIL ADDRESS:
PREVIOUS VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE
Have you ever volunteered with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office?
Yes No If yes, please indicate the date(s) and location(s):
SEMESTER or DATE(S) DIVISION/OFFICE SUPERVISOR
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Are you currently employed? Yes
your employer and duties performed:
No If yes, please list the name and address of
_
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM APPLICATION (Page 2)
NAME:
First Name Middle Name or Initial Last Name
ASSIGNMENT PREFERENCE
List in order of preference the division/office you would like to provide volunteer services. If you
have been assigned to a supervisor, list his or her name as your first selection.
1.
2.
3.
Semester (select one):
Spring (January 1 - May 31)
Summer (June 1 – August 31)
Fall (September 1 – December 31)
Position (select one):
Student Worker Law Clerk
Certified Law Clerk
Attorney (TAP Project)
Paralegal Intern
Dates of Availability:
Start Date:
End Date:
MINIMUM: 16 HOURS PER WEEK
EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION
College or University: _
Major/Course of Study: _______________________ Degree: _______________________ Law School: _____________________________
Law School Students and Recent Law School Graduates
Year of Study: 1
st
Year 2
nd
Year 3
rd
Year 4
th
Year Law School Graduate
Have you taken the California Bar Examination? Yes No Date:
Certified Law Students – Dates of Certification:
Civil Procedure: Completed Currently Enrolled Evidence: Completed Currently Enrolled
Are you a participant in an LL.M. (Master of Law) program or a trial advocacy clinic or program?
Yes No LL.M. Program Trial Advocacy:
Special Skills/Special Training/Areas of Interest/Foreign Language(s):
Please indicate if you are proficient with any of the following computer applications: Microsoft Office
Excel Outlook PowerPoint LexisNexis Westlaw Other _________________________
Please enter your hours of availability for each day of the week (if
you are not available on a certain day, leave that day blank).
(Example: Monday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
MONDAY
:
a.m.
to
:
p.m.
TUESDAY
:
a.m.
to
:
p.m.
WEDNESDAY
:
a.m.
to
:
p.m.
THURSDAY
:
a.m.
to
:
p.m.
FRIDAY
:
a.m.
to
:
p.m.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS AND CERTIFIED LAW STUDENT PROGRAM
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM AGREEMENT
NAME:
First Name Middle Name or Initial Last Name
I understand that during my participation in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office
Volunteer Internships and Certified Law Student Program, I am “expected to conduct myself at all
times in a professional, courteous and businesslike manner.” I understand that I must “adhere to the
highest standard of personal conduct, integrity and professionalism and avoid engaging in conduct
that may reflect adversely upon the District Attorney’s Office.” (Los Angeles County District Attorney’s
Office, Personnel Policies Handbook)
I understand that I will not receive compensation or benefits and that my participation in the
volunteer program and my assignment is at the discretion of the Los Angeles County District
Attorney’s Office and may be terminated at any time. Please read and place your initials next to each
paragraph listed below.
Initial
Paragraph No. 1: I understand that my participation in the District Attorney’s Office volunteer
program is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of my background investigation.
Initial
Paragraph No. 2: I understand that I must submit all documents, including the volunteer
application, background packet, resume, official photo ID (I.e. driver’s license, passport, military
ID, school ID) and proof od COVID-19 vaccination, in order for my application to be processed.
Failure to submit all documentation will result in result in my application being incomplete and
unable to be processed, deeming me ineligible of acceptance into the Los Angeles County
District Attorney’s Office Volunteer Internship Program.
Initial
Paragraph No. 3: I understand that I am not authorized to begin my volunteer services until I
have been notified by the Recruitment Unit that my background investigation has been
satisfactorily completed.
Initial
Paragraph No. 4: I agree to comply with all security rules, regulations and protocols
established by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and the Los Angeles County
Sheriff’s Department.
Initial
Paragraph No. 5: I agree to display the temporary Identification (ID) Card while engaged in
activities related to my volunteer assignment; to properly secure and protect the custody of the
temporary ID Card; and to refrain from using the temporary ID Card to obtain special favors,
treatment, benefit or consideration for personal advantage.
Initial
Paragraph No. 6: I agree to return the temporary Identification (ID) Card to the Human
Resources Division (or the Recruitment Office) on my last workday, and to immediately notify
my supervisor and the Human Resources Division in the event the temporary ID Card is lost or
stolen.
Initial
Paragraph No. 7: I agree to return the Hall of Justice (HOJ) Building Access Card (or any
building access card issued to me) to the Human Resources Division (or the Recruitment Office)
on my last workday, and to notify my supervisor and the Human Resources Division in the
event the building access card is lost or stolen.
Initial
Paragraph No. 8: I agree to comply with all the instructions of my supervisor in the
performance of my responsibilities; to report to the office in a timely manner; and to call
promptly when I am not able to report to the office.
Initial
Paragraph No. 9: I agree to keep all information confidential; to refrain from discussing
confidential matters in open areas (i.e., lunchrooms, elevators, restrooms, open office areas,
home); and to refrain from publishing or disseminating any materials or confidential
documents in the possession of the District Attorney’s Office.
Initial
Paragraph No. 10: I understand that unauthorized release, publication, or dissemination of any
materials or confidential documents will subject me to civil liability or criminal prosecution.
Initial
Paragraph No. 11: I agree to adhere to all safety workplace procedures; and in the event I am
injured while performing my duties and responsibilities, I understand that I must immediately
report such injury to my supervisor.
Initial
Paragraph No. 12: I agree to report my first and last workday to the Recruitment Office; and to
complete a Report of Volunteer Hours form and submit it to the Recruitment Office on my last
workday.
Initial
Paragraph No. 13: I agree to refrain from any type of solicitation or charging, requesting or
accepting any fee, gift, reward or payment of any kind from individuals or staff.
Initial
Paragraph No. 14: I understand that volunteers are prohibited from driving a County vehicle;
and in the event I am required to drive my personal vehicle, I understand I must have a valid
driver’s license and automobile liability insurance.
Initial
Paragraph No. 15: I understand that I will be required to attend a mandatory half-day training
session (the training for all volunteer certified law clerks is one full day).
Initial
Paragraph No. 16: I understand that any violation of this Volunteer Program Agreement will be
cause for immediate dismissal and termination (without the right to appeal) of my volunteer
services.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I certify that all of the information in my application and background investigation forms are true and
correct and that any false information will be cause for immediate dismissal and termination of my
volunteer services. By affixing my signature below, I acknowledge that I have read and understand all
of the conditions and restrictions indicated above. I agree to fully comply with all of the provisions of
this agreement during my volunteer services with the District Attorney’s Office.
Signature: _______________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________________
PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN
(For youth applicants under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign this agreement.)
NAME:
First Name Last Name Relationship to Minor
Signature: Date:
LOS ANGELES COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS AND CERTIFIED LAW STUDENT PROGRAM
YOUTH VOLUNTEER PARENTAL CONSENT FORM
(Youth applicants under the age of 18 must be 16 years of age at the time the application is submitted.)
YOUTH’S NAME:
First Name Middle Name or Initial Last Name Age
HIGH SCHOOL:
PARENT OR LEGAL GUARDIAN
Grade:
NAME:
First Name Last Name Relationship to Minor
ADDRESS:
Home Street Address (Do not list a P.O. Box) Apartment or Suite No.
City State Zip Code
PHONE.: CELL: ( ) OTHER: ( ) _
EMAIL:
Are you a Los Angeles County Employee: Yes No If yes, list the name of your
department and your title/position:
I understand that obtaining criminal conviction information is a necessary part of the volunteer
application process for the County of Los Angeles. Therefore, I hereby authorize the Los Angeles
County District Attorney’s Office to obtain a record of my child’s criminal conviction(s) from the
Department of Justice or any other agency that collects records of criminal convictions.
Signature: _______________________________________________________________ Date: ______________________________
DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE • FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE USE ONLY
RECRUITMENT OFFICE
Intern’s Office Assignment:
Intern’s Supervisor:
MANAGEMENT APPROVAL
Notes:
Signature: ____________________________________ Deputy In Charge, Recruitment
Date: _______________________________
Supervisor’s
Signature: Signature
LOS ANGELES COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM -- REPORT OF VOLUNTEER HOURS
Name: Supervisor:
Office/Division: Start Date: End Date:
Month:
Month:
Month:
Date
In
Out
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Date
In
Out
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Date
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Out
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Supervisor’s
Signature: Signature
LOS ANGELES COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM -- REPORT OF VOLUNTEER HOURS
Name: Supervisor:
Office/Division: Start Date: End Date:
Month:
Month:
Month:
Date
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Out
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