Legal Intern

With offices in Harrisburg, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh, the AOPC Legal Department provides comprehensive advice and counsel to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, the state court administrator, state court judges, and Unified Judicial System (UJS) personnel on legal, administrative, and policy matters. Led by the Chief Counsel and Deputy Chief Counsel, the department comprises 14 attorneys, one paralegal, and three legal assistants, organized into three specialized units.

The Litigation Unit represents Pennsylvania court entities, judges, and state-paid court personnel in litigation matters, primarily in federal court. The unit frequently defends state-court sovereignty under the federal Constitution and offers proactive advice to minimize litigation risk.

The Transactional Unit negotiates contracts, prepares and reviews documents related to competitive procurements, and manages AOPC’s leasing portfolio.

The Information Technology (IT) Unit participates in planning and implementing statewide case management systems and related programs, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and procedural requirements.

AOPC Legal is committed to offering interns an engaging and multifaceted experience across its various units. The position requires a commitment of 35 hours per week during the summer and 10 hours per week during the academic year, spanning from May 2026 through May 2027. The selected intern will work under the supervision of the Supervising Legal Counsel for the IT Unit.

Applications must be received by January 31, 2026.

Job Duties

• Legal interns primarily conduct legal research and analysis for benchbooks, court policies, and various assigned projects.

• Interns respond to public inquiries, both written and oral, about court procedures, policies, and the status of court cases.

Minimum Qualifications

Applications are invited from first- and second-year law students in good standing at accredited law degree programs who meet the following qualifications:

• Possess a demonstrated working knowledge of legal terminology and procedures.

• Exhibit strong written and oral communication skills.

• Have a fundamental understanding of the policies, procedures, and functions of the Pennsylvania UJS (preferred).

Additional Requirements / Preferences

• Working knowledge and competence using computer software programs, including Microsoft Office.

• Familiarity with legal research databases, including Lexis and Westlaw, is required.

• A satisfactory criminal background check is required.

• Submission of a resume, law school transcript(s), and a writing sample is required.

Intern Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This includes confidential, professional counseling services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges, manage stress, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

• Free parking in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Salary information

Hourly rate: $18.50

Applicants requiring accommodation, for any part of the application and/or interview process, should contact Human Resources at (717) 231-3309 or human.resources@pacourts.us.