PDS Summer Internship Programme

Gain practical experience in a criminal legal defence environment.
Develop your legal knowledge and skills and apply them in the real world.

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What we do

We provide legal advice and representation to defendants who are granted legal aid in criminal cases. We also oversee the duty lawyer services in the courts where we operate.

We receive around 12,000-13,000 cases a year and our mix of senior, intermediate and junior lawyers are employed to undertake a full range of criminal legal aid cases.

The PDS is an independent professional, people-centred criminal law practice involving high quality and independent criminal defence and duty lawyer services in ten centres throughout New Zealand.
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About the Summer Intern Programme

The PDS Summer Intern Programme provides New Zealand university law students in their penultimate year of study with an opportunity to gain practical experience in a criminal defence practice environment.

PDS Summer Interns:

  • Undertake legal research, draft legal submissions and affidavits.
  • Observe client interviews and court appearances.

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What we offer

  • Full time, three month fixed term, paid positions in up to ten offices across New Zealand.
  • Practical mentoring and coaching from experienced criminal lawyers.
  • Opportunity to attend the district court, prison visits, police station visits and specialised training.
  • A collegial and supportive team environment within the workplace.

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What we look for

  • We are looking for law students who are in their penultimate year of study and:
  • Have a knowledge of criminal law and a passion for justice issues.
  • Have experience in social justice (e.g., working in a community law centre).
  • Are versatile self-starters who have a strong work ethic and are client-focussed.

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Testimonials

Jerome

Rose

Kayleigh

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Apply for the Summer Internship Programme

Applications for the Summer Internship Programme open in March.

Visit the Ministry of Justice Careers website(external link) to view and apply for PDS Summer Internship opportunites.

Download the Public Defence Service Summer Intership Programme information sheet [PDF, 161 KB].

Visit our website (external link)for more information about the PDS.

Contact Nicholas Ford if you have any questions about the Summer Intern Programme.

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