Post Bar Fellow - Spring

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.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer If you need special services or accommodations, please call or email . This position is subject to a criminal history check.

Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements Required Supporting Documents: * Resume * Cover letter detailing interest in public defense and the fellowship.

For law graduates, bar membership or eligibility to practice in Texas should be specifically addressed in the cover letter.

* Unofficial law school transcript.

* Contact information for at least two (2) professional references.

Education and Experience: * Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school by the start of the fellowship.

* Current 3Ls graduating this fall are encouraged to apply, provided they will complete the Texas Bar Exam prior to the fellowship start date.

Licensure: * Applicants must be sitting for the Texas Bar Exam and be awaiting results at the time the fellowship begins.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Strong research, analytical, and written communication skills.

* Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with a demonstrated commitment to indigent defense.

* Strong organizational and time management skills.

* Demonstrated commitment to public service, criminal defense, and social justice.

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application.

You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration.

"See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

General Information Position Type and Typical Hours of Work: * Seasonal Full-time * Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Desired Start Date: * 3/01/2026 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 * Based on 26 Pay Periods Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

For questions about the hiring process, requirements, or assistance with applying, please contact: Victoria Knott, Recruitment Director, HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.

The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions: Health & Wellness Benefits * Medical Coverage * Dental Coverage * Vision Coverage * Wellness Plan * Life Insurance * Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance * Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Healthcare Flexible Spending Account * Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account Paid Time Off (PTO) * Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service) * Eleven (11) County-observed holidays * One (1) floating holiday per year * Paid Parental Leave * Sick Leave Retirement Savings Benefit * 457 Deferred Compensation Plan The following benefits are available to Harris County employees in full-time and select part-time positions: * Professional learning & development opportunities * Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan) * Flexible work schedule* * METRO RideSponsor Program* * Participation may vary by department.

In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time.

Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.

For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website: 01 Have you completed or will you have completed a Juris Doctorate degree by the start of the fellowship?

* Yes * No 02 Please describe your educational background including level of education completed, area of study and completed major and minor programs.

03 Are you currently licensed to practice law with the State Bar of Texas?

* Yes * No 04 Will you be sitting for the Texas Bar Exam and awaiting results at the time the fellowship begins?

* Yes * No 05 Interested candidates should submit the following materials: -Resume -Cover letter detailing interest in public defense and the fellowship.

-Unofficial law school transcript.

-Contact information for at least two (2) professional references.

Did you attach all required documents to your application?

* Yes Required Question Employer Harris County Address 1111 Fannin St Ste.

600 Houston, Texas, 77002 Phone Website