Law Student Volunteer - Summer 2026

The U.S. Attorney’s Office consists of a Criminal Division, Civil Division and Appellate Division. The Criminal Division investigates and prosecutes federal crimes involving, but not limited to, terrorism, firearms, bank robberies, gangs, narcotics, white collar, public corruption, health care fraud, child pornography, identity theft, bank fraud, and crimes occurring in Indian Country. The Civil Division represents the United States by defending suits against federal agencies and employees involving claims of employment discrimination, medical malpractice, torts, Bivens, etc. The Civil Division also enforces civil laws seeking to recover government funds lost to contract fraud and health care fraud, handles mortgage foreclosures and collection of debts owed to the United States, land condemnation, environmental cases, etc. The Appellate Division handles criminal and civil appeals and is responsible for researching and writing motions and appellate briefs for filing with the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. Students will work closely with Assistant U.S. Attorneys.

Depending on the assigned division, students will assist with all facets of case preparation, such as researching legal issues, drafting motions and briefs, discovery, and trial preparation. Students will become familiar with the Federal Rules of Civil and Criminal Procedure, the Federal Rules of Evidence, the local rules of practice for the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, and the local and Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure. In addition, students may have the opportunity to attend depositions, meetings with agents, and accompany the attorneys to observe court proceedings.

Law students who have completed their first or second year of law school. Students chosen will be subject to a background investigation which can take up to two months. Must be a U.S. citizen.

Applications must include: cover letter, resume (not to exceed 2 pages), transcript, and writing sample (limited to 12 pages). Also include e-mail address and telephone number where student can be reached both day and evening. All application packages should be submitted via email to gina.penny@usdoj.gov.Questions should be directed to Gina Penny via e-mail or telephone at 405-553-8816.

Student Volunteers (uncompensated); Internships or externships (with educational credit).