Apply on Employer Site

Harris County · 1 day ago

Post-Bar Fellowship - Fall 2026

Houston, TX

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

Harris County is home to the Public Defender’s Office, which is dedicated to providing client-centered representation in criminal legal systems. The Post-Bar Fellowship offers recent law graduates or third-year law students an immersive opportunity to gain hands-on experience in indigent criminal defense, including legal research, client advocacy, and trial preparation.

Government Administration

Responsibilities

Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, motions, and other pleadings under attorney supervision

Assist attorneys in reviewing discovery, investigating cases, and formulating defense strategies

Participate in client interviews, jail visits, and witness preparation

Organize case files and assist in trial preparation, including reviewing evidence and preparing exhibits

Observe and participate in court proceedings, including pre-trial hearings, motions, and plea negotiations

Collaborate with attorneys, investigators, and social workers to ensure holistic representation of clients

Uphold the mission and values of the HCPDO by ensuring zealous advocacy and ethical representation

Qualification

J.D. from accredited law schoolTexas Bar Exam eligibilityLegal researchWritten communicationAnalytical skillsCommitment to public serviceSocial justice advocacyOrganizational skillsTime management

Required

J.D. from an accredited law school by the fellowship start date

Eligible applicants include recent graduates, individuals finishing judicial clerkships or fellowships who plan to transition into public defense, and those eager to start a career in public defense immediately after graduation

Applicants must be: 3L student or recent law school graduate preparing to take the July 2026 Texas Bar Exam OR a recent law school graduate who is already licensed in Texas

Resume

Cover Letter - Must explain why you want to do this work. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Include lived, educational, or professional experiences that have prepared you for the role. Add any other information for the hiring committee to consider

Law school transcript (an unofficial transcript is acceptable)

Contact information for at least two professional references