Summer Law Clerk

Who We Are

The Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO) is a diverse and dedicated team of professionals committed to justice and safety for over five-million residents. As the second-largest prosecutor's office in the U.S., the CCSAO prosecutes criminal and regulatory violations across six bureaus and four units with a staff of over 1,200.

To uphold justice and public safety in Cook County by fairly, ethically, and effectively prosecuting crime, supporting victims, and protecting the rights of all residents.

We are seeking individuals who share our passion for justice, diversity, and the well-being of the community. Whether you are a legal professional, an investigator, or an administrative specialist, we value dedication, integrity, and a commitment to our values of accountability, respect, and fairness. Join our team if you are ready to make a tangible impact, work collaboratively, and uphold the principles of justice with unwavering dedication.

At the Cook County State's Attorney's Office, your skills and values will help shape a safer and stronger Cook County.

Chicago IL

• This opportunity is only available to Law Students graduating in 2028 who will be eligible for their 711 license by June 2027***

The CCSAO Paid 711 Internship Program is highly competitive due to the hands-on, challenging, and relevant work experience participants will garner. Rising third year (3L) law students will be paired with an Assistant State’s Attorney within one of the several criminal divisions of the Cook County Court System, who will guide and mentor the 711 Intern during their clerkship.

The 711 Clerk is responsible for conducting legal research, preparing memos, partnering with counsel regarding case management and procedural requirements, and most importantly assisting with courtroom proceedings. This is an on-site, seasonal role with a minimum of 32 hours, but not to exceed 40 hours a week for 12 weeks from June
- August 2027 and is not eligible for benefits. There is no opportunity for remote work.

Pay Rate: TBD
- Law Clerks received a rate of $21 per hour

Final date to receive applications: September 30, 2026

• Assist with preparation of daily court call and breakdown of the court call at the end of court.
• Assist with on-record daily court call
• Prepare research memos on pending legal issues
• Prepare motions, answers, and other legal filings as required
• Assist with preparation of discovery including video, audio and document evidence review and organization.
• Interview witnesses and law enforcement
• Assist with motions and trials as needed
• Assisting in the notification of witnesses

• Must be a rising 3L law student at an ABA approved law school
• Must be in good standing with your law school (GPA of 2.5 and above), and not be on any type of academic probation or the like
• Must have, or must be able to obtain prior to start of clerkship, a 711 license
• Experience with Moot Court and/or Mock Trial preferred

• We are only accepting applications from rising 3L law students with an anticipated graduation date from an ABA-accredited law school of December 2027 or May 2028.
• Before applying for this position, if you are seeking school credit for an internship, it is your responsibility to verify with your school if the school allows for students to be monetarily compensated.
• To all prospective candidates seeking an internship opportunity with CCSAO, kindly be informed that we do provide unpaid assignments throughout the academic year in addition to our paid internship program. For individuals who may not be selected for the paid internship, we highly encourage you to consider applying for our unpaid internship program…