Intern (Legal Services) (Hybrid)

Closing Date: 22nd May, 2024

Description:

Join our Legal Services team at A Government Entity! We are thrilled to offer a paid internship that provides law students and recent graduates with practical work experience and the opportunity to build valuable relationships with industry experts and colleagues. The Legal Services Division is seeking an intern who will gain hands-on experience through providing legal assistance and support in contract drafting and reviewing, Brown Act compliance, Public Records Act (PRA) issues, internal policy development, and legal research and memoranda preparation. Responsibilities may include: assisting with the review, development, and negotiation of agreements; reviewing public meeting agendas and observing public meetings; assisting with handling Public Records Act requests and conducting research related to the same; assisting in development and providing advice on administration of A Government Entity policies and procedures; and conducting legal research and preparing memoranda on various topics related to Metropolitan Planning Organizations, municipal governance, and public agency law.
The Legal Services Division is comprised of two attorneys, collectively serving as the legal support for approximately 230 employees. The Division serves as a trusted advisor to all levels of A Government Entity's divisions in the development and implementation of legal and operational solutions for A Government Entity's work. The Division is a primary partner in identifying, implementing, and encouraging compliance with risk management practices to minimize organizational liability. As the internal strategic legal resource for A Government Entity, we are committed to efficiently providing high-quality legal assistance tailored to the dynamic needs of the organization. We pride ourselves on offering creative solutions that not only address legal challenges but also propel A Government Entity towards the achievement of its operational objectives.
Internships will begin approximately mid-July and will be limited to a maximum of 29 hours a week for the duration of the internship (499 hours). Interns are expected to work at least 15 hours per week.
A Government Entity is deeply committed to embodying the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and advancing racial equity throughout the Southern California region. A Government Entity encourages applications by members of all underrepresented groups.
What We Believe:
Mission:
To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.
Vision:
Southern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future.
A Government Entity Core Values

• Be Open: Be accessible, candid, collaborative, and transparent in the work we do.
• Lead by Example: Commit to integrity and equity in working to meet the diverse needs of all people and communities in our region.
• Make an Impact: In all endeavors, effect positive and sustained outcomes that make our region thrive.
• Be Courageous: Have confidence that taking deliberate, bold, and purposeful risks can yield new and valuable benefits.

In this role you can expect to

• Assist with drafting, reviewing, and negotiating MOUs and contracts with other public agencies and contractors and vendors providing goods and services to A Government Entity.
• Assist with Public Records Act (PRA) issues by reviewing PRA requests and responsive records, drafting responses to requests, and conducting legal research as needed.
• Gain experience complying with the Brown Act by reviewing meeting agendas and observing public meetings.
• Assist in the development of A Government Entity policies and procedures and provide advice on policy implementation.
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal memoranda.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What you'll bring to this role

Education and Experience:
An undergraduate or graduate student who is currently enrolled in law school, a university, or community college taking classes toward a JD, Political Science, Criminology, Law degree, or a related field, or who has graduated within the previous 24 months.
We'll be a great match if you have:

• Knowledge and/or experience reviewing, drafting and/or negotiating contracts.
• Basic knowledge of the California Public Records Act and the Brown Act.
• Solid organizational and multitasking skills and the ability to meet deadlines and stay on task.
• Ability to manage time effectively, work independently and take initiative.
• Good communication skills and ability to work well in a team.
• Experience using Office 365 suite.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Teams.
  

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