College of Law :: Georgia State University

Criminal Prosecution Externship--Dekalb County District Attorney

LAW 8030

Description

(3) hours per semester, two semester requirement. Prerequisite: Eligibility to practice under the Law School Public Prosecutor Act.* Preferred: Criminal Procedure. Applications accepted only in the spring semester for the following academic year. Students will work a minimum of 10 hours per week with the District Attorney's Office. Externs will be exposed to the work of a criminal investigator under the direct supervision of an investigator and will assist in interviewing witnesses, securing physical evidence, and preparing trial reports. Following this externs will be assigned to the Grand Jury Division working directly under the supervision of an assistant district attorney. Responsibilities will include evaluation and screening of cases for legal sufficiency, preparation of indictments, and presentation of cases to the Grand Jury. Externs will then be assigned to work with a trial attorney and will participate in all aspects of trial preparation, negotiation with defense attorneys, and participation in arraignments, pre-trial hearings and probation revocation hearings. Wherever feasible, students will be given an opportunity to assist at the trial of criminal cases. All students who have not previously taken an externship must attend a classroom component at the law school. Students are required to participate in weekly seminars conducted by the District Attorney's office. Consent of Lawyer Skills Externship Program faculty required for enrollment. * (1) be in good academic standing (at least 73.00 g.p.a), (2) have earned at least two-thirds (60 hours) of the J.D. requirements in not fewer than four semesters or six quarters of residence, and (3) be of good moral character. NOTE: Students participating in this externship may have to work more hours than required for other externships, and work hours may be less flexible during weeks students are scheduled to be in court. Students may not work with any other organizations which practice criminal law while participating in Dekalb County in this externship.

Credit hours: 3