Judicial Externship Program
The Judicial Externship Program (JEP) is a one semester program where students work with a judge. Placements include both trial and appellate courts at the state and federal level.
Students can expect to handle complex research and writing assignments, and will participate in and observe the daily workings of the court.
The JEP is taught by Professor Lois Knight in the fall and Dean Chris Marx in the spring. Additional sections, taught by other faculty, are added on a semester-by-semester basis depending on student demand.
Credits and Hours
Students receive variable credits (pass/fail) for the fieldwork component of the externship, determined as follows:
- 4 credits = 200 hours total (16 hrs/wk)
- 5 credits = 250 hours total (20 hrs/wk)
Most judicial placements require 20 hrs/wk. The fieldwork begins the first week of classes and students work through the last week of classes. Students may not begin the fieldwork before the semester begins.
In addition to the fieldwork, students receive three graded credits for a seminar exploring related topics. For specific course information: fieldwork; seminar.
Applying to the Judicial Externship Program
Unlike the other externship programs, acceptance to the Judicial Externship Program is competitive. The fall semester is open only to 3Ls. The spring semester is open to 2Ls and 3Ls. Students must have a 3.3 minimum GPA to apply.
Applications are accepted during the following time periods:
- Fall '12 participation (3Ls only) - applications are due Monday, March 5.
- Spring '13 participation (2Ls and 3Ls) - application period is Sept. 4 thru Sept. 17, 2012.
Acceptance to the program is on a rolling basis during the application time frame. We encourage students to submit their applications as soon as they can during the application period.
Because this is a coordinated program, students may not contact judges without first consulting with Professor Lois Knight or Dean Chris Marx.
For more information, please contact the program directors, Dean Chris Marx and Professor Lois Knight.