Joanna Lau
Lewis & Clark Law School
If you want a summer experience where your opinion is valued, your work is taken seriously, and your time is well spent, then apply for the externship program with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
This past summer, I had the pleasure of working in the Coeur d’Alene branch office. While there were several externs in Boise, I was the only extern in Coeur d’Alene. There are three Assistant U.S. Attorneys and two Legal Assistants at the Coeur d’Alene office. Because of the close-knit office environment, I was able to work with all three attorneys and get to know their different styles. Since I had just finished my 1L year, I wasn’t able to appear in court. However, this didn’t take away from my externship one bit. I had several opportunities to help with and attend court proceedings. Throughout my entire experience, I felt my work was taken seriously and appreciated. The attorneys and legal assistants were always there to provide helpful feedback and guidance on my work, yet they did not hesitate to give me the reins on a project. Throughout the externship, I researched and wrote motions, put together jury instructions, attended meetings with other Federal agencies as well as the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Council, and helped with trial preparation.
Even though I was the only extern in the office, I had weekly interaction with the other externs in Boise and Pocatello through videoconferencing. The writing workshops and brown bag presentations were informative and helpful.
Lastly, getting to know the Coeur d’Alene area has been a great experience in itself. Summer in Northern Idaho is an absolute treat for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. I wholeheartedly recommend this externship to anyone who is looking for a well-rounded and worthwhile summer experience.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a collaborative effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and communities to prevent and deter gun violence.
