Externship Program

The Imperial County Superior Court Externship Program is a four-week immersive experience designed to provide college and law students with hands-on exposure to courtroom practice and legal procedures. Under the supervision of Superior Court Judges , externs will have the opportunity to observe court proceedings, engage in legal research, and develop critical writing and analytical skills. This year's program will feature a hybrid structure , incorporating both in-person and virtual components to accommodate participants with varying schedules. Program Goals & Responsibilities Externs will be paired with a judicial mentor who will guide them through legal research and writing projects, including drafting an order or decision under judicial supervision.

Participants will:

Attend and observe civil and criminal court proceedings Engage in research and writing assignments related to active court matters Receive one-on-one feedback from their assigned judicial officer Participate in group discussions and debriefings with judges and court staff Eligibility & Requirements Applicants must: Be enrolled in an undergraduate or law school program Complete an online application Pass a criminal background check Attend a mandatory orientation (in-person or virtual) Application Materials (to be submitted online): Statement of interest Resume Two (2) letters of recommendation Incomplete applications will not be considered . Candidates will be notified via email regarding selection and orientation details. Program Schedule & Structure The externship will run from Monday, July 6, 2026, through Friday, July 31, 2026.

Flexible Hours/Schedule:

Externs will coordinate their individual schedules with their assigned judicial officer, balancing courtroom observation, research, and writing assignments.

Judicial Research & Writing:

Each extern will work on a legal research project, drafting an order or decision under the guidance of their assigned judge. Weekly Open Forum with the

Presiding Judge:

Once a week, externs will meet with the Presiding Judge during the lunch hour for an informal discussion, providing an opportunity to ask questions, reflect on experiences, and gain insight into judicial decision-making.

Appellate & Federal Court Experience:

Time permitting, externs will: Attend oral argument sessions at the Fourth District Court of Appeal Observe proceedings at the U.S. Magistrate Court in El Centro Participate in a possible Zoom discussion with Federal District Court Judges and/or California Supreme Court Justices Additional Information This is an unpaid externship opportunity. Externs must comply with all court security and confidentiality protocols.

Location:

Criminal Courthouse, 650 Wake Ave, El Centro, CA 92243