Paralegal Extern Program

The Department of Law is interested in placing paralegal students in our Extern Program. This program is designed to provide participates with a challenging, unpaid externship that reflects the demands and rewards of public service. This program is for college or university students who are currently enrolled in an ABA accredited paralegal program.

Participants will be assigned to one of the practice divisions within the law department. He/she will be assigned a supervisor/mentor who will coordinate assignments. Together, the chosen participant and the supervisor will determine the start date, the hours and the date of which the program will end for the individual.

The following is a brief description of the available divisions:

Building & License Enforcement (BLE)

Participants would assist in preparation of out-of-state summons and letters; file cases in docket room; maintain current court appointments and final dispositions in database; file motions and new cases at the Daley Center; may be asked to assist in drafting orders in court; assist in the preparation of the Vacant Building call; research final payment received in court cases and possibly draft demand letters.

Collections & Ownership Litigation (COLD)

Participants will review and analyze documents; research property related matters using various databases; prepare court calls; assist the litigation staff in court; retrieve documents from the circuit court; organize files and documents; and perform data-entry of cases into a case management system as needed. Participants must be available to work a minimum of 21 hours per week, including all day on Friday.

Torts

Participants would prepare for trials and hearings. Specific duties include attending 2:00 trial-setting calls at the Industrial Commission, obtaining records, preparing and typing correspondence, subpoenas, and notifications, faxing, filing and organizing documents and files, and conducting database and web searches. Participants must be available at least two afternoons a week to attend the 2:00 calls.

To be considered for this program, please submit the following materials.

Note: Failure to submit all materials may result in your application not being considered.

Resume
Cover letter indicating division you wish to be assigned.
School Transcript

Forward Application Materials to:
LaVern Scott-Levy
City of Chicago
Department of Law
30 N. LaSalle, Suite 1640
Chicago, IL 60602
llevy@cityofchicago.org

There is no residency requirement for these unpaid positions.