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Committee for Public Counsel Services · 3 months ago

Internship Opportunities - Summer 2026 - Mental Health Litigation Division - Statewide

Boston, MA

Internship

Onsite

Intern

Start in 2026 Summer

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is seeking law students for Summer 2026 internship positions in their Mental Health Litigation Division. Interns will assist attorneys with civil commitment proceedings and have the opportunity to engage in a variety of experiences under the supervision of experienced attorneys.

CommunitiesLaw EnforcementPublic Relations

Responsibilities

Shadow several attorneys during their internship

Develop a working understanding of G.L. c. 123 and the requirements for civil commitment, District and Municipal Court commitment proceedings, court-ordered medication proceedings, and the rules of evidence as applied in mental health cases

Visit clients and conduct interviews to obtain relevant information and ascertain the client’s position on their pending petition(s)

Work with independent medical experts including psychiatrists, psychologists, social service experts, and other mental health professionals as requested by staff attorneys

Work with attorneys to prepare motions for funds, motions for in person hearings, review medical records, direct examinations, cross-examination of Designated Forensic Psychologists and Psychiatrists and closing arguments

Develop research on race and equity issues in civil commitments and assist in developing a litigation guide for such issues

Conduct research into support for novel issues or arguments

Conduct legal research on systemic and specific issues affecting clients with mental disabilities

Draft practice materials for attorneys representing clients in mental health matters

Handle intake line calls from patients and clients in mental health facilities and provide information about their legal status, assignment of counsel or referral

Assist MHLD Training Unit attorneys to create and edit training materials, and to develop and maintain Mental Health online training and resource initiatives

Qualification

Legal researchZealous advocacyCultural competenceClient interviewsWriting skillsTeam collaborationCommunication skills

Required

Demonstrated commitment to the principle of zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and the protection of fundamental constitutional and human rights

Reliable transportation or public transportation to travel to courts and hospitals

A personal computer with home internet access sufficient to work remotely

Law students who have completed their 2L year and are or can be 3:03 certified to assist attorneys with representation of citizens facing involuntary civil commitment to mental health facilities

1Ls are welcome to intern with the commitment defense offices to assist with client calls, reviewing medical records and legal research