Social Work Intern

Company Description

The Dallas County Public Defender’s Office has been providing legal representation to individuals unable to afford private attorneys since 1983 and is the largest public defender office in Texas. Established to fulfill the mandate of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Gideon v. Wainwright, the office is dedicated to ensuring high-quality, efficient legal defense for its clients. Comprising experienced attorneys in felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, CPS, family, mental health, DNA, appellate, and capital murder cases, the office operates across thirty-six courts in four buildings. Additionally, the team actively supports defendants involved in specialty and diversion courts in Dallas County.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site Social Work Intern role based in Dallas, TX. The intern will support the attorneys in the Public Defender’s Office by conducting comprehensive client assessments, gathering social history information, and connecting clients with community resources. Responsibilities will include assisting with report writing, participating in case planning, and providing advocacy for clients to address their social service needs. The intern will also collaborate with legal teams and community partners to create strategies that support clients and improve case outcomes.

Qualifications

• Current enrollment in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Social Work, or a related field (Required)
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and client advocacy skills
• Proficiency in conducting assessments and compiling detailed case reports
• Ability to collaborate with legal teams and community partners effectively
• Basic knowledge of social work principles, case management, and community resources
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Understanding of issues surrounding the criminal justice system is a plus
• Openness to learning, adaptability, and a commitment to professional ethics

This is an unpaid Internship