Blake Jacobs -Gonzaga University School of Law

I had the wonderful opportunity of working for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho at the Coeur d’Alene branch. I enjoyed every day at the office. It is on the smaller side which allowed me the opportunity to work with all three of the Assistant U.S. Attorneys. This helped me develop and learn from lawyers who have expertise in different areas of the law. It challenged me to learn what each attorney was looking for in the work that I provided them. Each attorney was different in their own right and I learned valuable skills from all of them.

Before coming to the office, I attained my limited license. This was probably the most exciting part of working in the office. All of the attorneys were more than eager to allow me to sit in on any proceeding and would even allow me to argue on behalf of the United States as often as possible. I got the experience of speaking on the record for my first time, got feedback on my advocacy, and even got to meet the federal judges in chambers.

While at the office I assisted with two ninth circuit court of appeals briefs, researched various areas of the law, wrote and filed sentencing memorandums, engaged in discovery, and worked with various agents. I also represented the U.S. in hearings such as sentencing, probation violations, and initial appearances.

My experience working at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho was second to none, not only on a professional level but also on a personal level. Everyone in the building from the attorneys, the federal agents, the court security, and probation were a pleasure to see every day. They were all very kind, encouraging, and positive when I was nervous to speak in court. I would not change my experience at the office for anything and I recommend this externship to any law student. I gained research experience, courtroom time that was invaluable, friendships, confidence, and practical skills.

Blake Jacobs

J.D. Candidate, 2018

Gonzaga University School of Law