What are the responsibilities and job description for the Post Bar Fellowship- Spring 2026- Feb Bar Takers position at National Legal Aid & Defender Association?
Position Description
About the Harris County Public Defender’s Office:
The Harris County Public Defender’s Office is dedicated to providing high-quality, holistic, client-centered legal representation to indigent individuals accused of crimes in Harris County. Our office works to ensure fairness and justice in the criminal legal system through zealous advocacy and compassionate representation.
Position Overview
The HCPDO seeks third-year law students (3Ls) graduating this fall and recent law school graduates to join our team as Post-Bar Fellows. Applicants must have either completed or be registered to take the Texas Bar Exam and be awaiting results by the time the fellowship begins. This fellowship offers a unique and immersive opportunity to gain hands-on experience in indigent criminal defense. Fellows will work alongside experienced public defenders, playing an active role in all stages of representation — from case investigation and legal research to client advocacy and trial preparation.
As a Post-Bar Fellow, you will partner directly with skilled attorneys and gain first-hand exposure to one of the largest and most complex criminal legal systems in the country. Fellows will encounter a wide variety of cases and litigation experiences, making this an invaluable opportunity for those seeking a meaningful career in public defense.
Duties And Responsibilities
Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, motions, and other pleadings under attorney supervision.
Assist attorneys in reviewing discovery, investigating cases, and formulating defense strategies.
Participate in client interviews, jail visits, and witness preparation.
Organize case files and assist in trial preparation, including reviewing evidence and preparing exhibits.
Observe and participate in court proceedings, including pre-trial hearings, motions, and plea negotiations.
Collaborate with attorneys, investigators, and social workers to ensure holistic representation of clients.
Uphold the mission and values of the HCPDO by ensuring zealous advocacy and ethical representation.
Position Type And Typical Hours Of Work
Seasonal Full-time
Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Desired Start Date
3/2026 | Approximately 3 months, beginning after completion of the Texas Bar Exam.
This fellowship is intended to lead directly to employment with HCPDO (subject to performance and office needs).
Salary
$28.00 Hourly
About the Harris County Public Defender’s Office:
The Harris County Public Defender’s Office is dedicated to providing high-quality, holistic, client-centered legal representation to indigent individuals accused of crimes in Harris County. Our office works to ensure fairness and justice in the criminal legal system through zealous advocacy and compassionate representation.
Position Overview
The HCPDO seeks third-year law students (3Ls) graduating this fall and recent law school graduates to join our team as Post-Bar Fellows. Applicants must have either completed or be registered to take the Texas Bar Exam and be awaiting results by the time the fellowship begins. This fellowship offers a unique and immersive opportunity to gain hands-on experience in indigent criminal defense. Fellows will work alongside experienced public defenders, playing an active role in all stages of representation — from case investigation and legal research to client advocacy and trial preparation.
As a Post-Bar Fellow, you will partner directly with skilled attorneys and gain first-hand exposure to one of the largest and most complex criminal legal systems in the country. Fellows will encounter a wide variety of cases and litigation experiences, making this an invaluable opportunity for those seeking a meaningful career in public defense.
Duties And Responsibilities
Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, motions, and other pleadings under attorney supervision.
Assist attorneys in reviewing discovery, investigating cases, and formulating defense strategies.
Participate in client interviews, jail visits, and witness preparation.
Organize case files and assist in trial preparation, including reviewing evidence and preparing exhibits.
Observe and participate in court proceedings, including pre-trial hearings, motions, and plea negotiations.
Collaborate with attorneys, investigators, and social workers to ensure holistic representation of clients.
Uphold the mission and values of the HCPDO by ensuring zealous advocacy and ethical representation.
Position Type And Typical Hours Of Work
Seasonal Full-time
Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Desired Start Date
3/2026 | Approximately 3 months, beginning after completion of the Texas Bar Exam.
This fellowship is intended to lead directly to employment with HCPDO (subject to performance and office needs).
Salary
$28.00 Hourly
Salary : $28
