Federal Prosecutor Leadership Academy

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Florida (USAO SDFL)

Federal Prosecutor Leadership Academy

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida (USAO SDFL) is excited to announce our inaugural program of the Federal Prosecutor Leadership Academy (FPLA).

This two-day program is designed to provide students with an educational introduction to public service, the federal justice system, and the critical work that prosecutors do. This short-term program emphasizes career exploration, professional development, and civic engagement, consistent with the Department of Justice’s mission and federal student volunteer guidelines.

Authority and Status

This program is conducted under the federal Student Volunteer Service authority (5 U.S.C. § 3111), which permits federal agencies to accept voluntary service from students for educational purposes. Student volunteers:

• Serve without compensation
• Are not federal employees for most purposes
• Do not receive salary, benefits, or future employment preference as a result of participation

Program Dates

• Miami-Dade Public School Session: March 23–24
• Private Schools: April 6–7

The program agenda is still being developed, but an overview is included below. The program will run from 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM each day.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be currently high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors
• Submit parental/guardian consent if under 18
• Meet any additional requirements stated in the program announcement (including citizenship requirements, if applicable)

Educational Objectives

Through supervised, age-appropriate activities, interns will:

• Gain exposure to the role of the U.S. Attorney’s Office within the federal justice system
• Learn foundational workplace skills, including professionalism, communication, and time management
• Observe how federal employees collaborate in support of law enforcement and legal proceedings (without participating in law enforcement activities)

Confidentiality and Conduct

Student participants must adhere to all USAO SDFL policies regarding:

• Professional conduct
• Confidentiality of non-public information
• Use of government equipment and systems (if provided)
• Restrictions on photography, recording, and social media

Compensation and Benefits

This is an unpaid voluntary program. Students will not receive wages or stipends and are not entitled to federal benefits. All students will be responsible for their own transportation to and from our office.

Equal Opportunity Statement

USAO SDFL provides equal opportunity and does not discriminate on any legally protected basis. Selection is based on program criteria, educational interest, and office capacity.

Application Process

Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to USAFLS-InternProgram@usdoj.gov explaining why they are interested in the program and what they hope to gain from the experience.

Application Deadline: Friday, February 27 at 5:00 PM.

Program Overview

Day One

Day Two

Federal Prosecutors Leadership Academy Program Overview (USAO SDFL).