Practice Area

All Post Bars are placed in the Adult Criminal Division of the Primary Public Defender (PPD) at the Main Office. Post-Bars are assigned to the Central Misdemeanor Unit. Post Bar positions are full-time paid positions, $24.29 per hour.

The Post-Bar Clerkship Program is a highly competitive program that attracts applicants from across the nation. We consider a variety of factors when selecting candidates to participate in the Post-Bar Clerkship selection and interview process. Prior internship experience with our office is one factor we may consider; however, it is not a requirement and does not guarantee selection.

The Post Bar Clerkship allows a select group of students to experience the demanding yet highly rewarding practice of a public defender. Our nationally recognized program is designed to give students not just an understanding of the criminal justice system, but hands-on experience with trial advocacy and representing misdemeanor clients.

In addition, all Post-Bar Clerks will participate in our Trial Skills Academy, a comprehensive courtroom advocacy program taught by experienced trial attorneys. The training staff is comprised of veteran trial attorneys, many of whom are instructors at the National Institute for Trial Advocacy and the local law schools. These professionals take pride in producing trial artists in the courtroom and in developing attorneys' natural abilities.

Minimum Requirements

• Post Bars must attend and graduate from an accredited law school (state and/or national).
• The submission of the moral character application to the California State Bar is strongly encouraged prior to the
  commencement of the Post-Bar Clerkship.
• Post Bars must have applied for and be eligible to take the next California State Bar Examination prior to
  beginning the Post Bar Clerkship
• Post Bars must be PTLS Certified.
• Applicants should have prior work/volunteer experience in a public defender office or other criminal defense   
  agency.
• The Post Bar clerkship is a full-time, 40 hour per week, commitment.

For more information or questions about internship, Post-Bar, or employment opportunities at the San Diego County Public Defender’s Office, please email PDIntern.Recruitment@sdcounty.ca.gov.