Summer Law Clerk Program
Join the 2026 Virtual Summer Law Clerk Program
Join Gideon's Promise this summer and gain invaluable insight into what it means to be a public defender. Our virtual program offers summer law clerks the opportunity to develop practical legal skills, deepen their commitment to public defense, and make a meaningful impact on underserved communities.
- Download the Event Flyer: Click Here to Download the 2026 SLC Flyer
- Secure Your Spot: registration is required to attend any of the sessions.
2026 Summer Law Clerk Sessions
Our sessions feature experienced advocates, public defense leaders, and alumni who will provide real-world insights, practice tips, and community-building strategies.
Please note that registration is required to attend any of the sessions.
Day 1
Monday, June 22, 2026
- Eastern Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM / Central Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM / Mountain Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM / Pacific Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 1:00 PM – 1:10 PM EST | Introduction to Gideon’s Promise and the Summer Law Clerk Virtual Program
- 1:10 PM – 1:40 PM EST | The Fundamentals of Client-Centered Representation
Description: What is client-centered representation, where does it come from, and what does it look like in everyday practice? - 1:40 PM – 1:45 PM EST | Break
- 1:45 PM – 2:20 PM EST | Public Defender Office Models (Panel Discussion)
Description: A panel discussion of the different ways that public defender offices can be organized to provide client-centered representation. - 2:20 PM – 2:25 PM EST | Break
- 2:25 PM – 3:00 PM EST | Tips for Internship Success (Panel Discussion)
Description: A panel discussion on ways to make the most of your summer internship experience.
Day 2
Monday, June 29, 2026
- Eastern Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM / Central Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM / Mountain Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM / Pacific Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- 3:00 PM – 3:05 PM EST | Introduction to Gideon’s Promise and the Summer Law Clerk Virtual Program
- 3:05 PM – 3:40 PM EST | Research & Motions
Description: A discussion of how you can help provide client-centered representation through creative research and writing. - 3:40 PM – 3:45 PM EST | Break
- 3:45 PM – 4:20 PM EST | Building a Life-long Career in Public Defense
Description: A discussion of ways you can stay motivated and energized to be a public defender for your entire career. - 4:20 PM – 4:25 PM EST | Break
- 4:25 PM – 5:00 PM EST | The Law School Partnership Program & Building the Defender Community
Description: A discussion of how you can be a public defender in a Gideon’s Promise partner office and join a national community of defenders making positive change across the country.
If you have any questions about the registration process for 2026 Virtual Summer Law Clerk Program, please email [email protected].
Summer Law Clerk Program Story
“Gideon’s Promise’s unique model has provided innovative, intuitive and inventive ways to train and empower my students who want to become public defenders and make a positive contribution to the Criminal Justice system.”
Dehlia Umunna
Clinical Professor of Law and Deputy Director Criminal Justice Institute, Harvard Law School; Cambridge, MA
About Us
A Change is Coming
We defend our most vulnerable communities from the effects of mass incarceration -- keeping families together with dignity. Our Mission To transform the criminal justice system by building a movement of public defenders who provide equal justice for marginalized communities. Our Vision We envision a nation where every person has access to zealous, outstanding representation necessary to ensure “equal justice for all" in the criminal justice arena.
Protecting This Promise
You don't have to be a public defender to protect the promise of zealous counsel for all. Your monthly contribution--no matter the amount--will directly impact the fate of a client accused of a crime, who didn't know they needed you.