Summer Judicial Externship Program

The Court of Appeal in Los Angeles offers first- and second-year law students an opportunity to gain an understanding of the appellate decision-making process by participating in the work of a judicial chambers. Performed under the supervision of justices and research attorneys, the work includes reviewing appellate briefs and writ petitions, examining trial court records, conducting legal research, drafting opinions and memoranda, and observing oral argument sessions. Externs may also participate in writ conferences and attend conferences before and after oral argument.

A weekly or biweekly seminar component—taught by justices, research attorneys, and appellate practitioners—provides instruction on the role of intermediate appellate courts in the development of the law, the principal aspects of the appellate process, the influence of oral argument in reaching a decision, and the post-argument decision-making process. The seminar component also instructs externs on effective opinion-writing techniques.

To provide a context for understanding issues raised on appeal or by writ, externs observe trial court proceedings (if available) and discuss the trial court decision-making process with judges conducting those proceedings. Externs may also have the opportunity to observe oral argument before the California Supreme Court. Post-argument discussions explore the procedural similarities and differences between the Supreme Court and the intermediate appellate courts.

Students interested in the program are invited to submit applications between December 2, 2024 and February 14, 2025. Applications received before December 2, 2024, will not be considered. Applications must include a cover letter, resume, legal writing sample, and, if available, law school transcript. Shortly after receipt of completed application packets, the applications will be electronically circulated to the 32 justices on the court for their consideration. The justices will make externship selections based on a review of the applications and telephonic or remote interviews.

Law students who wish to be considered for the summer program must electronically submit applications (including a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and transcript if available) in one PDF document to: Ana.Lemus@jud.ca.gov (213-830-7460). Applications that are not submitted electronically will not be considered.

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