Judicial Internship
This is a single semester internship that provides experience within the judicial system. Students learn about judicial decision-making and use their analytical, research, and writing skills to draft opinions and memoranda for pending matters under the direct supervision of judges, their law clerks, and staff attorneys. By observing court proceedings, they become familiar with court procedures and legal advocacy. Placements include the judicial circuit courts, the Florida District Court of Appeals, and the United States District Court.
Students are required to attend the weekly class component.
- Prerequisites: Completion of the first year in good standing
- Co-requisites: None required
- Course Credit: 4
- Grading: Pass/Fail
- Minimum Hourly Requirement: Fall/Spring: 16 hours per week; Summer: 32 hours per week
- Eligible Students: 2L’s and 3L’s
- Florida Bar Notice of Registrant Clearance: No
- Clinic Location: Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties
- Faculty: Judge Peter R. Lopez, and Judge Michele Towbin Singer
Genesis Johnson
“My Judicial Internship at Miami-Dade’s County Criminal Division was one of the most substantive experiences of my legal education. The experience grounded my understanding of criminal procedures in the precision and judgment that courtroom practice requests from all attorneys. The work included motion review, order and memo drafting, and direct courtroom observation, which cultivated the analytical rigor and written communication skills for effective legal practice. The experience reinforced my appreciation for the care and rigor that every stage of legal proceedings has. The court’s guidance and generosity created a learning environment that was challenging and supportive, and their investment in my development was instrumental in my growth as a legal professional. This internship affirmed my commitment to advocacy, deepened my professional judgment, and reminded me of the lasting impact that mentorship can have on the kind of lawyer I strive to be.”